Topical Encyclopedia Precious stones have long been symbols of wealth, beauty, and divine craftsmanship, often representing the worldly glory of nations in the biblical narrative. These stones are frequently mentioned in Scripture, highlighting their significance in both spiritual and material contexts.Biblical References and Symbolism In the Bible, precious stones are often associated with the splendor and majesty of God's creation. They are used to describe the beauty and wealth of nations, as well as the glory of God's heavenly kingdom. One of the most notable references is found in the description of the New Jerusalem in the Book of Revelation. The foundations of the city wall are adorned with every kind of precious stone, including jasper, sapphire, and emerald (Revelation 21:19-20). This imagery underscores the divine perfection and eternal beauty of God's kingdom. The prophet Ezekiel also uses precious stones to describe the opulence of Tyre, a wealthy and powerful city-state. In Ezekiel 28:13 , the king of Tyre is depicted as being adorned with every precious stone, symbolizing his immense wealth and the city's prosperity. However, this passage also serves as a cautionary tale about pride and the fleeting nature of worldly glory. The High Priest's Breastplate The high priest's breastplate, as described in Exodus 28:17-20 , is another significant biblical reference to precious stones. The breastplate, also known as the Breastplate of Judgment, was adorned with twelve stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. These stones included ruby, topaz, and turquoise, among others. The breastplate served as a tangible reminder of God's covenant with His people and the spiritual significance of the tribes. Solomon's Wealth and Wisdom King Solomon, renowned for his wisdom and wealth, is another biblical figure associated with precious stones. In 1 Kings 10:11-12 , it is recorded that the ships of Hiram brought gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks to Solomon, along with almug wood and precious stones. These treasures contributed to the splendor of Solomon's reign and the glory of Israel during his time. Solomon's wealth, however, also serves as a reminder of the potential pitfalls of materialism and the importance of seeking wisdom and understanding above earthly riches. Heavenly and Earthly Contrast Throughout Scripture, precious stones are used to draw a contrast between the temporary glory of earthly nations and the eternal glory of God's kingdom. While nations may rise and fall, adorned with wealth and beauty, the Bible emphasizes that true and lasting glory is found in the divine. The use of precious stones in biblical imagery serves to remind believers of the ultimate value of spiritual treasures over material possessions. Conclusion In summary, precious stones in the Bible symbolize the worldly glory of nations, the beauty of God's creation, and the eternal splendor of His kingdom. They serve as reminders of both the blessings and the potential dangers of wealth, urging believers to seek the enduring treasures of heaven. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezekiel 28:13-16You have been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was your covering, the sardius, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of your tabrets and of your pipes was prepared in you in the day that you were created. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Results of Transgression The Temple and Its Dedication In the Last Chapter we Confined Ourself to the Old Testament, in ... On the Clause, and Shall Come in Glory to Judge the Quick and the ... Mysterious Prophecies Revealed. Among the People, and with the Pharisees The Abiding of the Spirit the Glory of the Church The Christian's Hope The Figurative Language of Scripture. Christ is All 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 |
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