Lexical Summary amethustos: Amethyst Original Word: ἀμέθυστος Strong's Exhaustive Concordance amethyst. From a (as a negative particle) and a derivative of methuo; the "amethyst" (supposed to prevent intoxication) -- amethyst. see GREEK a see GREEK methuo NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom alpha (as a neg. prefix) and methuó Definition amethyst NASB Translation amethyst (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 271: ἀμέθυστοςἀμέθυστος, , ἡ, amethyst, a precious stone of a violet and purple color (Exodus 28:19; according to Phavorinus so called διά τό ἀπείργειν τῆς μέθης (so Plutarch, quaest. conviv. iii. 1, 3, 6)): Revelation 21:20. (Cf. B. D. under the word.) Topical Lexicon Definition and Overview A rich purple or violet gemstone whose brilliance made it prized in antiquity, amethyst appears once in the Greek New Testament (Revelation 21:20) and several times in the Hebrew Scriptures. In biblical thought it functions as both an object of beauty and a theological symbol of purity, royalty, and unbreakable covenant. Biblical Occurrence in the New Testament Revelation 21:20 lists amethyst as the twelfth foundation stone of the New Jerusalem: “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”. Its placement at the climax of the list highlights finality and completion, underscoring that God’s redemptive work reaches perfect fulfillment in the eternal city. Old Testament Background 1. Priestly Breastpiece: In Exodus 28:19 and Exodus 39:12 amethyst forms part of the third row of gemstones on the high priest’s breastpiece, directly over the high priest’s heart as he bears Israel’s names before the LORD. Symbolism and Theological Themes • Royal Dignity: Purple—the dominant hue of amethyst—signified kingship and authority. By naming the gem in Revelation, John depicts the saints’ eternal reign with Christ (Revelation 5:10). Historical Use in Israel and Early Christianity Archaeology confirms that amethyst was mined in Egypt’s eastern desert and traded across the Near East. Israel likely obtained the stones during the Exodus or through subsequent commerce. Early church fathers noted its beauty; some medieval churches in the East inlaid amethysts into altars to recall the heavenly foundations described by John. Practical Ministry Applications • Worship Planning: Visual arts, paraments, or stained glass that incorporate deep violet hues can remind congregations of their priestly identity and future inheritance. Reminders for the Church Today The single New Testament mention of amethyst may seem minor, yet it anchors the gemstone to the grand narrative of redemption—from priestly service in the tabernacle to everlasting worship in the city of God. Its lustrous purple glow calls believers to pursue purity, celebrate royal adoption, and stand firm on the unshakable foundations the Lord Himself has laid. Forms and Transliterations αμέθυστον αμεθυστος αμέθυστος ἀμέθυστος άμελγε ήμελξας amethustos amethystos améthystosLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
    |