Topical Encyclopedia The imagery of precious stones is richly woven throughout the biblical narrative, symbolizing beauty, value, and divine splendor. In the context of the Heavenly Jerusalem, these stones serve as a vivid representation of the glory and majesty of God's eternal kingdom. The Apostle John's vision in the Book of Revelation provides a detailed description of the New Jerusalem, adorned with an array of precious stones, each contributing to the city's radiant beauty and divine significance.Biblical Description In Revelation 21:10-21, John describes the Heavenly Jerusalem descending from heaven, "having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal" (Revelation 21:11). The city's foundation is laid with twelve precious stones, each corresponding to one of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. These stones are listed as follows: 1. Jasper 2. Sapphire 3. Chalcedony 4. Emerald 5. Sardonyx 6. Carnelian 7. Chrysolite 8. Beryl 9. Topaz 10. Chrysoprase 11. Jacinth 12. Amethyst Each stone is not only a testament to the beauty of the city but also a symbol of the eternal covenant between God and His people. The use of these stones reflects the Old Testament tradition, where precious stones were used in the high priest's breastplate (Exodus 28:17-20), signifying the tribes of Israel and their relationship with God. Symbolism and Significance The precious stones of the Heavenly Jerusalem symbolize various aspects of God's kingdom: · Perfection and Purity: The clarity and brilliance of these stones reflect the purity and holiness of the New Jerusalem. The jasper, described as "clear as crystal," emphasizes the transparency and perfection of God's presence. · Foundation of Faith: The twelve stones represent the apostles, underscoring the foundational role of apostolic teaching and the continuity of faith from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant. · Eternal Beauty and Value: The enduring nature of these stones signifies the eternal beauty and value of the heavenly city. Unlike earthly treasures, the glory of the New Jerusalem is imperishable and everlasting. · Diversity and Unity: The variety of stones, each with its unique color and characteristics, symbolizes the diversity within the body of Christ. Together, they form a unified and harmonious whole, reflecting the unity of believers in the presence of God. Theological Implications The depiction of precious stones in the Heavenly Jerusalem serves as a powerful reminder of the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises. It points to a future where believers will dwell in the presence of God, experiencing the fullness of His glory and grace. The imagery invites believers to anticipate the coming of God's kingdom with hope and reverence, living in a manner worthy of the calling they have received. In summary, the precious stones of the Heavenly Jerusalem encapsulate the splendor, holiness, and eternal nature of God's kingdom, offering a glimpse into the divine reality that awaits those who are faithful to the end. Torrey's Topical Textbook Revelation 21:11Having the glory of God: and her light was like to a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal; Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Open Door. Meditations of the Blessed State of a Regenerate Man in Heaven. What Use Heavenly Contemplation Makes of Consideration, the ... Preface to the First Edition. Results of Transgression Our Strong City Swedenborgians, Or, the New Jerusalem Church. The True Gold and Its Testing Heavenly Contemplation Assisted by Sensible Objects, and Guarded ... Letter Xlvi. Paula and Eustochium to Marcella. Resources What does it mean that Jesus and believers are living stones in 1 Peter 2:4-5? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that Jesus loves the little children? | GotQuestions.org In what ways are believers partakers of the divine nature? | 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 |
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