Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, precious stones are often associated with wealth, beauty, and divine favor. They are frequently mentioned as gifts or offerings, symbolizing honor, status, and the value of the relationship between the giver and the recipient. The use of precious stones as presents is deeply rooted in the cultural and religious practices of the ancient Near East, where such gifts were seen as expressions of respect and reverence.Biblical Instances of Precious Stones as Gifts 1. The High Priest's Breastplate: One of the most significant uses of precious stones in the Bible is found in the description of the high priest's breastplate. This sacred garment, worn by the high priest of Israel, was adorned with twelve stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Exodus 28:17-21 details the stones: "And mount on it a setting of gemstones—four rows of stones: The first row shall be a ruby, a topaz, and an emerald; the second row shall be a turquoise, a sapphire, and a diamond; the third row shall be a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst; the fourth row shall be a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. Mount these stones in gold filigree settings. The twelve stones are to correspond to the names of the sons of Israel, each engraved like a seal with the name of one of the twelve tribes." 2. The Gifts of the Magi: In the New Testament, the Magi's visit to the infant Jesus is a well-known instance where precious items, including gold, frankincense, and myrrh, were presented as gifts. While not explicitly mentioned as stones, these gifts were of great value and symbolized the recognition of Jesus' kingship and divinity. Matthew 2:11 states, "On coming to the house, they saw the Child with His mother Mary, and they fell down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh." 3. The Wealth of Solomon: King Solomon, renowned for his wisdom and wealth, received numerous gifts, including precious stones, from foreign dignitaries. The Queen of Sheba's visit to Solomon is a notable example. 1 Kings 10:2 records, "She arrived in Jerusalem with a very large caravan—with camels bearing spices, gold in great abundance, and precious stones. She came to Solomon and spoke with him about all that was on her mind." 4. The New Jerusalem: In the book of Revelation, the New Jerusalem is described as being adorned with precious stones, symbolizing the glory and beauty of God's eternal kingdom. Revelation 21:19-21 describes, "The foundations of the city walls were adorned with every kind of precious stone: The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald, the fifth sardonyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. And the twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was pure gold, as pure as transparent glass." Symbolism and Significance Precious stones in the Bible often symbolize divine favor, beauty, and the eternal nature of God's promises. They are used to convey the splendor and majesty of God's creation and His covenant with His people. The giving of such stones as presents reflects the high esteem and honor in which the recipient is held, as well as the wealth and generosity of the giver. In biblical narratives, these gifts often serve as tangible expressions of respect, allegiance, and worship, underscoring the deep spiritual and cultural significance of precious stones in the ancient world. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Kings 10:2And she came to Jerusalem with a very great train, with camels that bore spices, and very much gold, and precious stones: and when she was come to Solomon, she communed with him of all that was in her heart. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Building of the Golden House. How Solomon Fortified the City of Jerusalem, and Built Great ... The Church Triumphant How Ptolemy Philadelphus Procured the Laws of the Jews to be ... Christ's Priestly Office How to Use the Present Life, and the Comforts of It. Introduction It is a Ground for Thanksgiving that During the Last Three or Four ... How to Use the Present Life, and the Comforts of It. The Work of Christ. Resources Does Hebrews 6:4-6 mean we can lose our salvation? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan? | GotQuestions.org What is libertarian free will? | GotQuestions.org Presents: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Presents of Persons of Rank, of Great Value and Variety Presents were Given by Kings to Each Other in Token of Inferiority Presents were Given in Token of Friendship Presents were Given: As Tribute Presents were Given: At Marriages Presents were Given: On all Occasions of Public Rejoicing Presents were Given: On Occasions of Visits Presents were Given: On Recovering from Sickness Presents were Given: On Restoration to Prosperity Presents were Given: On Sending Away Friends Presents were Given: To Appease the Angry Feelings of Others Presents were Given: To Confirm Covenants Presents were Given: To Judges to Secure a Favourable Hearing Presents were Given: To Kings to Engage Their Aid Presents were Given: To Reward Service Presents were Given: To Show Respect Presents: Considered Essential on all Visits of Business Presents: Generally Presented in Person Presents: Generally Procured a Favourable Reception Presents: Laid out and Presented With Great Ceremony Presents: Not Bringing, Considered a Mark of Disrespect Presents: Often Borne by Servants Presents: Often Conveyed on Camels Presents: Receiving of, a Token of Good Will Presents: Sometimes Sent Before the Giver Presents: Things Given as Cattle Presents: Things Given as Food Presents: Things Given as Garments Presents: Things Given as Gold and Silver Vessels Presents: Things Given as Horses and Mules Presents: Things Given as Money Presents: Things Given as Ornaments Presents: Things Given as Precious Stones Presents: Things Given as Servants Presents: Things Given as Weapons of War Presents: when Small or Defective, Refused Related Terms |
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