Beryl is a precious stone mentioned several times in the Bible, known for its beauty and significance in biblical symbolism. The Hebrew word for beryl is "tarshish," which is often associated with the region of Tarshish, suggesting a possible origin or trade route for this gemstone. Beryl is typically a greenish-blue stone, although it can appear in various colors, including yellow and white.

Biblical References:

1. High Priest's Breastplate: Beryl is one of the stones set in the breastplate of the High Priest, as described in the Book of Exodus. The breastplate, also known as the "Breastplate of Judgment," contained twelve stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. In Exodus 28:20 , it is written: "And in the fourth row shall be a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. Mount these stones in gold filigree settings." This inclusion signifies beryl's importance and its role in the religious and cultural life of ancient Israel.

2. Ezekiel's Vision: The prophet Ezekiel describes a vision of the glory of God, where beryl is used to depict the appearance of the divine. In Ezekiel 1:16 , the wheels accompanying the living creatures are described: "The appearance of the wheels and their workmanship was like the gleam of beryl, and all four had the same likeness." This imagery suggests the stone's association with divine majesty and heavenly splendor.

3. Daniel's Vision: In the Book of Daniel, the prophet describes a vision of a man clothed in linen, whose body had the appearance of beryl. Daniel 10:6 states: "His body was like beryl, his face like the brilliance of lightning, his eyes like flaming torches, his arms and legs like the gleam of polished bronze, and his voice like the sound of a multitude." Here, beryl is used to convey the awe-inspiring and radiant nature of the heavenly messenger.

4. New Jerusalem: In the Book of Revelation, beryl is mentioned as one of the foundation stones of the New Jerusalem. Revelation 21:20 lists the stones: "the fifth was sardonyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst." This inclusion highlights beryl's enduring value and its place in the eschatological vision of the eternal city.

Symbolism and Significance:

Beryl, as a gemstone, is often associated with clarity, beauty, and divine presence. Its recurring presence in visions and descriptions of heavenly realms underscores its symbolic role as a representation of God's glory and purity. The use of beryl in the High Priest's breastplate and the foundations of the New Jerusalem further emphasizes its significance in the covenantal relationship between God and His people.

In biblical times, gemstones like beryl were not only valued for their aesthetic qualities but also for their perceived spiritual and protective properties. Beryl's inclusion in sacred texts and artifacts reflects its esteemed status and the belief in its connection to the divine.