Topical Encyclopedia Emerald, a precious gemstone known for its rich green color, holds significant symbolic and historical importance in biblical texts. The emerald is mentioned several times in the Bible, often associated with beauty, value, and divine creation.Biblical References: 1. Exodus 28:17-20 · The emerald is listed as one of the stones set in the breastplate of judgment worn by the High Priest Aaron. The breastplate contained twelve stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The inclusion of the emerald highlights its esteemed status and its role in the religious and cultural practices of ancient Israel. The Berean Standard Bible states: "And mount on it a setting of gemstones—four rows of stones: The first row shall be a ruby, a topaz, and an emerald." 2. Ezekiel 28:13 · In this passage, the prophet Ezekiel describes the King of Tyre in a lamentation, using imagery that includes precious stones to convey the king's former glory and beauty. The emerald is mentioned as part of the adornment: "You were in Eden, the garden of God; every kind of precious stone adorned you: ruby, topaz, and diamond; beryl, onyx, and jasper; sapphire, turquoise, and emerald." 3. Revelation 4:3 · The emerald is also depicted in the New Testament, where it is part of the vision of God's throne. The apostle John describes the appearance of the One seated on the throne: "And the One seated there looked like jasper and carnelian, and a rainbow that gleamed like an emerald encircled the throne." This imagery emphasizes the majesty and holiness of God, with the emerald symbolizing eternal life and divine grace. Symbolism and Significance: In biblical symbolism, the emerald is often associated with renewal, immortality, and the verdant beauty of creation. Its deep green color is reminiscent of lush vegetation and life, making it a fitting symbol for God's creation and the promise of new beginnings. The emerald's presence in the High Priest's breastplate signifies its importance in the spiritual life of Israel, representing one of the tribes and serving as a reminder of God's covenant with His people. The use of emerald in the description of God's throne in Revelation underscores its association with divine majesty and the eternal nature of God's kingdom. The emerald's brilliance and clarity are reflective of the purity and perfection of God's presence. Cultural and Historical Context: Emeralds have been prized throughout history for their beauty and rarity. In ancient times, they were mined in regions such as Egypt and later in the Indian subcontinent. The gemstone's allure and value made it a symbol of wealth and power, often used in royal adornments and religious artifacts. In the biblical context, the emerald's inclusion among the precious stones signifies its esteemed status and the recognition of its beauty and worth. Its presence in scriptural descriptions serves to convey messages of divine splendor and the richness of God's creation. Overall, the emerald in the Bible is a multifaceted symbol, representing beauty, divine favor, and the eternal nature of God's promises to His people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezekiel 27:16Syria was your merchant by reason of the multitude of the wares of your making: they occupied in your fairs with emeralds, purple, and broidered work, and fine linen, and coral, and agate. Torrey's Topical Textbook Revelation 4:3 Library Introduction. On Counter Promises. The Open Door. On the Use of Ointments and Crowns. An Advance Step in the Royal Programme Against Excessive Fondness for Jewels and Gold Ornaments. High Priest How Ptolemy Philadelphus Procured the Laws of the Jews to be ... Vive Jesus. Preface. The Best Introduction to this Production Will be the Following ... Resources Is it possible for gold dust to come down during a church service? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that Jesus Christ is the cornerstone? | GotQuestions.org Can a Christian lose salvation? | GotQuestions.org Precious: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Lapidary: One Who Cuts Precious Stones Precious Stones of Great Variety Precious Stones of Many Colours Precious Stones used for Adorning the Breastplate of Judgment Precious Stones used for Adorning the High Priest's Ephod Precious Stones used for Adorning the Temple Precious Stones used for Decorating the Person Precious Stones used for Honoring Idols Precious Stones used for Ornamenting Royal Crowns Precious Stones used for Setting in Seals and Rings Precious Stones: A Part of the Treasure of Kings Precious Stones: Art of Engraving Upon, Early Known to the Jews Precious Stones: Art of Setting, Known to the Jews Precious Stones: Beauty and Stability of the Church Precious Stones: Brilliant and Glittering Precious Stones: Brought from Ophir Precious Stones: Brought from Sheba Precious Stones: Called: Jewels Precious Stones: Called: Precious Jewels Precious Stones: Called: Stones of Fire Precious Stones: Called: Stones to be Set Precious Stones: Dug out of the Earth Precious Stones: Extensive Commerce In Precious Stones: Given by Chief Men for the Temple Precious Stones: Given by the Jews for the Tabernacle Precious Stones: Glory of Heavenly Jerusalem Precious Stones: Highly Prized by the Ancients Precious Stones: Often Given As Presents Precious Stones: Preciousness of Christ Precious Stones: Prepared by David for the Temple Precious Stones: Sardine or Sardius Precious Stones: Seductive Splendour and False Glory of the Apostasy Precious Stones: Stability of Heavenly Jerusalem Precious Stones: Worldly Glory of Nations Related Terms |