Chrysoprase is a precious gemstone mentioned in the Bible, known for its distinctive apple-green color, which is due to the presence of nickel. It is a variety of chalcedony, a type of quartz, and is valued for its vibrant hue and translucency. In biblical times, gemstones were often used for ornamental purposes and held significant symbolic meaning.

Biblical References:

Chrysoprase is specifically mentioned in the Book of Revelation, where it is listed as one of the foundation stones of the New Jerusalem. Revelation 21:19-20 states: "The foundations of the city walls were adorned with every kind of precious stone: The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald, the fifth sardonyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst."

In this passage, chrysoprase is the tenth foundation stone, symbolizing the beauty and perfection of the heavenly city. The use of such precious stones in the description of the New Jerusalem underscores the glory and splendor of God's eternal kingdom.

Historical and Cultural Context:

In ancient times, gemstones like chrysoprase were not only valued for their beauty but also for their supposed protective and healing properties. They were often used in jewelry, seals, and amulets. The high regard for chrysoprase in biblical times is reflected in its inclusion among the foundation stones of the New Jerusalem, indicating its esteemed status.

The ancient Greeks and Romans also prized chrysoprase, using it in various decorative and ceremonial objects. It was believed to have the power to attract prosperity and success, and to promote happiness and joy.

Symbolism and Interpretation:

In the biblical context, chrysoprase, like other gemstones, carries symbolic meaning. Its green color is often associated with growth, renewal, and eternal life. As part of the New Jerusalem's foundation, chrysoprase may symbolize the renewal and everlasting life promised to believers in Christ.

The use of chrysoprase and other gemstones in the description of the New Jerusalem serves to convey the idea of divine perfection and the fulfillment of God's promises. Each stone, with its unique color and properties, contributes to the overall image of a city that reflects God's glory and majesty.

Conclusion:

Chrysoprase, as mentioned in the Book of Revelation, holds a place of honor among the foundation stones of the New Jerusalem. Its inclusion in this visionary description highlights its beauty and symbolic significance, representing the eternal and perfect nature of God's kingdom. Through its vibrant green hue, chrysoprase continues to be a symbol of renewal and divine promise, reflecting the hope and assurance found in the Christian faith.(n.) An apple-green variety of chalcedony, colored by nickel. It has a dull flinty luster, and is sometimes used in jewelry.CHRYSOPRASE; CHRYSOPRASUS

kris'-o-praz, kri-sop'ra-sus.

See STONES, PRECIOUS.

5556. chrusoprasos -- a chrysoprase (a greenish-yellow gem)
... a chrysoprase (a greenish-yellow gem). Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration:
chrusoprasos Phonetic Spelling: (khroo-sop'-ras-os) Short Definition: a ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5556.htm - 6k

On Counter Promises.
... composed of many precious stones, as jasper, and sapphire, and chalcedony, and emerald,
and sardonyx, and onyx, and chrysolite, and chrysoprase, and jacinth ...
/.../origen/origen de principiis/chapter xi on counter promises.htm

Introduction.
... jasper ? jasper 7. ligurios 5. sapphirus 5. sapphire 5. sapphire 8. achates 4.
carbunculus 3. emerald or chrysoprase 3. emerald or carbuncle 4 9. amethustos 3 ...
/.../ambrose/works and letters of st ambrose/introduction 4.htm

Chrysoprase (1 Occurrence)
... Standard Bible Encyclopedia. CHRYSOPRASE; CHRYSOPRASUS. kris'-o-praz, kri-sop'ra-
sus. See STONES, PRECIOUS. Multi-Version Concordance Chrysoprase (1 Occurrence) ...
/c/chrysoprase.htm - 7k

Chrysoprasus (1 Occurrence)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary. (n.) See Chrysoprase. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia.
CHRYSOPRASE; CHRYSOPRASUS. kris'-o-praz, kri-sop'ra-sus. ...
/c/chrysoprasus.htm - 7k

Chrysolyte (1 Occurrence)

/c/chrysolyte.htm - 6k

Coral (3 Occurrences)
... margin "carbuncles"); 'argaman, "purple"; riqmah, "broidered work"; buts, "fine
linen"; kadhkodh, "agate"(King James Version, margin "chrysoprase," the Revised ...
/c/coral.htm - 12k

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