Lexical Summary pitdah: Topaz Original Word: פִטְדָה Strong's Exhaustive Concordance topaz Of foreign derivation; a gem, probably the topaz -- topaz. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originprobably of foreign origin Definition (a precious stone) perhaps topaz NASB Translation topaz (4). Brown-Driver-Briggs מִּטְדָה noun feminine (masculine according to AlbrZAW xvi (1896), 108) topaz or chrysolite (according to ᵐ5 τοπάζιον, ᵑ9 topazius, etc.; probably foreign word, compare Sanskrit pîta (properly yellow)); — named with other precious stones Ezekiel 28:13; Exodus 28:17 = Exodus 39:10; construct מִּטְדַתכּֿוּשׁ Job 28:19. — See PlinNH xxxvii. 8 -32, Houghton in SmDB, Topaz RiHWB, Edelstein. Topical Lexicon Overview Strong’s Hebrew 6357, pitdah, designates the precious stone “topaz,” one of the best-known gemstones of the ancient world. Its scriptural appearances cluster in passages that speak of priestly adornment, incomparable wisdom, and heavenly glory, thereby giving the stone a rich theological resonance. Identification and Characteristics Ancient writers situated the premier source of topaz on the island of Zebirget in the Red Sea, which belonged to Egypt during the Old Testament era. The gem described was typically golden-yellow or greenish-gold, its radiant hue suggesting both the brilliance of divine light and the wealth of kingdoms. The Septuagint routinely renders pitdah with topazion, confirming the traditional identification. Occurrences in Scripture 1. Exodus 28:17; 39:10 – The topaz occupies the first row of the high priest’s breastpiece. “Mount on it four rows of stones. The first row shall be a ruby, a topaz, and an emerald.” (Exodus 28:17) 2. Job 28:19 – In the hymn to wisdom, topaz is named among earth’s costliest treasures, yet it cannot rival God’s wisdom. “The topaz of Cush cannot compare to it; it cannot be valued in pure gold.” (Job 28:19) 3. Ezekiel 28:13 – As part of the lament over the king of Tyre, topaz appears in Eden’s jeweled array, portraying splendor destined to be lost through pride. “Every precious stone adorned you: ruby, topaz, and diamond…” (Ezekiel 28:13) Symbolic Significance Priestly Mediation Because pitdah is set into the breastpiece of judgment, it shares in the priestly ministry of bearing Israel’s tribes before the Lord (Exodus 28:29). Rabbinic tradition often links the first-row stones with the first three sons of Jacob; thus some identify topaz with Simeon. Regardless of the tribal association, the stone testifies to God’s provision of a mediating priesthood and anticipates the consummate High Priest, Jesus Christ (Hebrews 7:24-27). Incomparable Wisdom Job employs topaz as an instrument of comparison to elevate the surpassing worth of divine wisdom. Human ingenuity may unearth priceless gems, but only “God understands its way” (Job 28:23). The passage encourages believers to value revelation over riches (Proverbs 3:13-15). Splendor and Accountability Ezekiel’s oracle depicts the king of Tyre clothed in Edenic jewels, including topaz, highlighting the paradox of lavish blessing corrupted by arrogance. The narrative warns that earthly glory—however resplendent—cannot shield the unrepentant from divine judgment (Proverbs 16:18). Historical and Cultural Background Egyptian mining records from the second millennium BC mention topazos from St. John’s Island, aligning with Israel’s sojourn in Egypt. Trade routes carried the gem northward through Midian and Edom toward Phoenicia, explaining its presence in Tyre’s treasury (Ezekiel 27:22). The stone’s popularity in signet rings and amulets made it a ready emblem of authority. Intercanonical Echoes The Greek noun topazion reappears in Revelation 21:20 as the ninth foundation stone of the New Jerusalem, linking the tabernacle’s breastpiece to the eschatological city. The continuity underscores Scripture’s consistent testimony: God adorns both His priests and His eternal dwelling with tokens of His glory. Applications for Ministry • Worship – The beauty of topaz in priestly garments invites churches to pursue excellence in corporate worship, not as ostentation but as a reflection of God’s majesty (1 Chronicles 16:29). • Stewardship – Job’s valuation of wisdom over gemstones challenges believers to invest in spiritual understanding above material acquisition (Matthew 6:19-21). • Humility – Ezekiel’s portrayal of squandered splendor cautions leaders against pride, reminding them that every gift is a stewardship from God (1 Peter 5:5-6). • Hope – Revelation’s portrayal of topaz within the New Jerusalem assures the faithful that present sacrifices for Christ will yield eternal beauty and honor (2 Corinthians 4:17). Summary Pitdah, though a small player in the biblical narrative, threads together themes of priestly intercession, divine wisdom, human accountability, and eternal glory. Its luminous presence in Scripture beckons believers to seek the priceless treasure of knowing God and to reflect His radiance in faithful service. Forms and Transliterations פִּטְדַת־ פִּטְדָ֞ה פִּטְדָה֙ פטדה פטדת־ piṭ·ḏāh piṭ·ḏaṯ- pitDah piṭḏāh pitdat piṭḏaṯ-Links Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Exodus 28:17 HEB: ט֗וּר אֹ֤דֶם פִּטְדָה֙ וּבָרֶ֔קֶת הַטּ֖וּר NAS: of ruby, topaz and emerald; KJV: [shall be] a sardius, a topaz, and a carbuncle: INT: row of ruby topaz and emerald a row Exodus 39:10 Job 28:19 Ezekiel 28:13 4 Occurrences |
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