Topical Encyclopedia Beryl is a precious stone mentioned in the Bible, notable for its appearance in the vision of the New Jerusalem as described in the Book of Revelation. The Apostle John, in his apocalyptic vision, provides a vivid description of the New Jerusalem, the holy city descending from heaven, adorned with various precious stones. Among these, beryl holds a significant place.Biblical References: 1. Revelation 21:19-20 : "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, beryl is listed as the eighth foundation stone of the New Jerusalem. The inclusion of beryl among the foundation stones signifies its importance and value in the divine architecture of the heavenly city. The use of precious stones in the foundations symbolizes the beauty, strength, and eternal nature of God's kingdom. Historical and Cultural Context: Beryl is a mineral composed of beryllium aluminum cyclosilicate. It is known for its various colors, including green, blue, yellow, and pink, with the green variety being the most famous, known as emerald. In ancient times, beryl was highly prized for its beauty and rarity. It was often used in jewelry and ornamentation, signifying wealth and status. In the biblical context, precious stones like beryl were not only valued for their aesthetic appeal but also for their symbolic meanings. They were often associated with divine attributes, spiritual truths, and the glory of God. The use of beryl in the New Jerusalem's foundation reflects the city's divine origin and the splendor of God's creation. Symbolism and Theological Significance: Theologically, the presence of beryl in the New Jerusalem's foundation can be interpreted as a representation of the purity, clarity, and steadfastness of God's promises. The New Jerusalem is depicted as a place of perfect beauty and harmony, where God's presence dwells with His people. The precious stones, including beryl, serve as a reminder of the eternal and unchanging nature of God's covenant with His people. In the broader biblical narrative, beryl is also mentioned in other contexts, such as in the description of the high priest's breastplate (Exodus 28:20) and in the vision of the prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 1:16; 10:9). These references further emphasize the stone's association with divine revelation and heavenly realities. Conclusion: The mention of beryl in the foundation of the New Jerusalem highlights its significance in the biblical vision of the end times. As a precious stone, it symbolizes the beauty and permanence of God's kingdom, offering believers a glimpse of the glory that awaits in the eternal city. Nave's Topical Index Revelation 21:20The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolyte; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst. Nave's Topical Index Library The People of the New Earth The New Jerusalem. The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: On Daniel. Ii. The Interpretation by Hippolytus, (Bishop) of Rome ... Resources What does the Bible say about crystals? | GotQuestions.orgSummary of the Book of Ezekiel - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org Beryl: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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