Chalcedony is a precious stone mentioned in the Bible, known for its beauty and significance in biblical symbolism. It is a variety of quartz, characterized by its waxy luster and range of colors, often appearing in shades of blue, white, or gray. The stone is named after the ancient city of Chalcedon, located in what is now modern-day Turkey.

Biblical References:

Chalcedony 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 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." This passage highlights the stone's importance and its role in the eschatological vision of the heavenly city, symbolizing beauty, strength, and divine craftsmanship.

Symbolism and Significance:

In biblical symbolism, chalcedony is often associated with purity, clarity, and spiritual insight. Its translucent quality and varied hues can represent the multifaceted nature of God's creation and the diversity within the body of Christ. As one of the foundation stones of the New Jerusalem, chalcedony signifies the enduring and unshakeable nature of God's eternal kingdom.

The use of precious stones in the description of the New Jerusalem serves to convey the glory and splendor of the heavenly city, reflecting the majesty and holiness of God. Chalcedony, along with the other stones, illustrates the richness and beauty of the divine presence and the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises to His people.

Historical and Cultural Context:

In ancient times, chalcedony was highly valued for its aesthetic appeal and was often used in jewelry and decorative items. Its durability and ease of carving made it a popular choice for seals and amulets. The stone's name, derived from the city of Chalcedon, suggests its historical significance and the trade routes that facilitated the exchange of precious materials in the ancient world.

The inclusion of chalcedony in the biblical text reflects the cultural and economic importance of precious stones in the ancient Near East. These stones were not only symbols of wealth and status but also held religious and spiritual significance, often used in temple adornments and priestly garments.

Theological Reflections:

From a theological perspective, chalcedony's mention in the Book of Revelation invites believers to contemplate the beauty and perfection of God's ultimate plan for creation. The stone's placement in the foundations of the New Jerusalem serves as a reminder of the steadfastness of God's promises and the hope of eternal life with Him.

Chalcedony, as part of the divine architecture of the heavenly city, encourages Christians to reflect on their own spiritual foundations and the call to build their lives on the solid rock of faith in Jesus Christ. The stone's enduring beauty and strength serve as a metaphor for the believer's journey toward holiness and the transformative power of God's grace.Revelation 21:19
And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald;
Nave's Topical Index

5472. chalkedon -- chalcedony (a precious stone)
... chalcedony (a precious stone). Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration:
chalkedon Phonetic Spelling: (khal-kay-dohn') Short Definition: chalcedony ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5472.htm - 6k

The New Jerusalem.
... wall of the city were adorned with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation
was a jasper; the second, a sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth ...
/.../bliss/a brief commentary on the apocalypse/the new jerusalem.htm

The People of the New Earth
... of the wall of the city were adorned with every kind of precious stone. ... second, a
sapphire (azure blue, almost transparent): the third, a chalcedony (a kind of ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the people of the new.htm

On Counter Promises.
... of many precious stones, as jasper, and sapphire, and chalcedony, and emerald ... and
moulded, and made a living stone, a stone elect and precious, because he ...
/.../origen/origen de principiis/chapter xi on counter promises.htm

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as ... were garnished with all manner
of precious stones. ... the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy city or the.htm

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