Beryl is a precious gemstone mentioned in the Bible, particularly in the context of the High Priest's breastplate, also known as the Breastplate of Judgment. This breastplate was a sacred garment worn by the High Priest of Israel, as described in the Book of Exodus. It was adorned with twelve stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel.

Biblical References:

1. Exodus 28:15-20 : The instructions for the construction of the breastplate are detailed in this passage. The breastplate was to be made with skilled craftsmanship, and it was to contain four rows of stones. Beryl is mentioned as one of these stones: "The fourth row shall be a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. Mount these stones in gold filigree settings."

2. Exodus 39:10-13 : This passage describes the actual making of the breastplate according to the instructions given. Beryl is again listed as one of the stones: "They mounted four rows of gemstones on it. The first row had a ruby, a topaz, and an emerald; the second row had a turquoise, a sapphire, and a diamond; the third row had a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst; and the fourth row had a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. They were mounted in gold filigree settings."

Symbolism and Significance:

Beryl, in the context of the High Priest's breastplate, holds significant symbolic meaning. Each stone on the breastplate was associated with one of the tribes of Israel, and beryl is traditionally linked to the tribe of Dan. The breastplate served as a tangible representation of the High Priest's role as an intercessor between God and the people of Israel, with each stone symbolizing the presence and importance of each tribe before God.

The use of beryl and other precious stones in the breastplate underscores the value and beauty of the tribes in the eyes of God. The meticulous craftsmanship and the choice of gemstones reflect the divine order and the sacred nature of the priestly duties.

Description and Characteristics:

Beryl is a mineral composed of beryllium aluminum cyclosilicate. It is known for its clarity and range of colors, which include green, blue, yellow, and pink. The most well-known variety of beryl is emerald, which is green due to trace amounts of chromium and vanadium. Aquamarine, another variety, is blue or cyan and is colored by iron.

In biblical times, the exact identification of gemstones can be challenging due to the evolution of language and gemological knowledge. However, beryl's mention in the scriptures indicates its recognized value and beauty in ancient times.

Theological Implications:

The inclusion of beryl in the High Priest's breastplate highlights the theological theme of divine selection and representation. Each stone, including beryl, was chosen by God to be part of this sacred garment, symbolizing His covenant with the tribes of Israel. The breastplate, with its array of precious stones, served as a constant reminder of God's promises and the special relationship between God and His chosen people.

In summary, beryl's presence in the High Priest's breastplate is a testament to its significance in biblical history and theology. It represents the beauty, value, and divine purpose bestowed upon the tribes of Israel, as well as the sacred role of the High Priest as a mediator before God.Exodus 28:20
And the fourth row a beryl, and an onyx, and a jasper: they shall be set in gold in their settings.
Nave's Topical Index

Exodus 39:13
And the fourth row, a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper: they were enclosed in ouches of gold in their settings.
Nave's Topical Index

Introduction.
... [1904] See Exodus 28:15-21. The precious stones set in the breastplate are named
as follows: Septuagint Vulgate AV 1611 RV 1881. ... beryl iv. ...
/.../ambrose/works and letters of st ambrose/introduction 4.htm

Concerning the Garments of the Priests, and of the High Priest.
... into the breastplate itself, and they were set in ouches of ... that were themselves
inserted in the breastplate, and were ... was an onyx, and then a beryl, which was ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 7 concerning the garments.htm

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... have contented myself with what I there have found, and having set it before ... sardonyx;
the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy city or the.htm

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