Lexical Summary krustallizó: To crystallize, to become like crystal Original Word: κρυσταλλίζω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance be clear as crystal. From krustallos; to make (i.e. Intransitively, resemble) ice ("crystallize") -- be clear as crystal. see GREEK krustallos NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom krustallos Definition to shine like crystal NASB Translation crystal-clear (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 2929: κρυσταλλίζωκρυσταλλίζω; (κρύσταλλος, which see); to be of crystalline brightness and transparency; to shine like crystal: Revelation 21:11. (Not found elsewhere.) Topical Lexicon Biblical Imagery and Single New Testament Occurrence The verb krustallizō appears only once in the Greek New Testament, in Revelation 21:11, where the glory of the New Jerusalem is portrayed “like a jasper, clear as crystal”. The term paints a vivid picture of light passing through a flawless, transparent medium, signaling absolute purity and resplendent glory. John employs the verb to capture the dazzling, undimmed brilliance of the city that descends “out of heaven from God” (Revelation 21:10). This rare choice of vocabulary heightens the sense that what he sees belongs to a realm untouched by the curse of sin and decay (Revelation 22:3). Old Testament Parallels and the Prophetic Tradition Although krustallizō itself is not used in the Septuagint, its imagery resonates with earlier prophetic visions: These antecedents frame John’s vision within a continuum in which crystal imagery signals the nearness of God’s throne and the unveiled majesty of His presence. Historical Background: Crystal and Jasper in the Ancient World In the first-century Mediterranean world, “crystal” commonly referred to rock crystal (clear quartz), valued for its purity and capacity to refract light. Jasper, meanwhile, was prized for color and luminosity. By pairing jasper with crystal-like clarity, John conveys a stone of extraordinary translucence—something beyond the finest earthly gem. Ancient readers, familiar with opulent temple décor and imperial jewels, would grasp that this surpasses any human construction. The New Jerusalem’s radiant transparency thus proclaims God as its architect (Hebrews 11:10). Theological Significance 1. Manifested Glory: The city shines “with the glory of God” (Revelation 21:11). Krustallizō underscores that divine glory is not merely reflected but permeates the entire structure. Ministry Applications • Hope that Purifies: “Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure” (1 John 3:3). The crystalline city calls believers to corresponding moral clarity. Eschatological Contrast Revelation holds the New Jerusalem up against Babylon the Great. Whereas Babylon is adorned externally yet destined for destruction (Revelation 18:16-19), the crystal-clear New Jerusalem embodies inner, incorruptible radiance. Krustallizō thus marks the decisive victory of genuine righteousness over counterfeit splendor. Summary Krustallizō, though occurring only once, conveys the incomparable clarity, purity, and glory of the consummated kingdom. Through this single verb, Scripture invites believers to anticipate a future where the light of God fills all, to pursue holiness that mirrors that clarity, and to anchor their hope in the unassailable promise of a city whose brilliance is “clear as crystal.” Forms and Transliterations κρυσταλλιζοντι κρυσταλλίζοντι krustallizonti krystallizonti krystallízontiLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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