Topical Bible: Emerald: Color of the Rainbow

◄ Emerald: Color of the Rainbow ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Emerald, a precious gemstone known for its rich green hue, holds significant symbolism and meaning within the biblical context. The emerald is mentioned in the Bible as part of the high priest's breastplate, in the description of the New Jerusalem, and in the vision of the heavenly throne, where it is associated with the rainbow.

Biblical References:

1. High Priest's Breastplate:
The emerald is one of the twelve stones set in the breastplate of the high priest, as described in the Book of Exodus. This breastplate, also known as the "breastplate of judgment," was worn by the high priest as a means of divine communication and representation of the twelve tribes of Israel. The emerald is specifically mentioned as the fourth stone in the second row of the breastplate:
· "The second row had a turquoise, a sapphire, and a diamond; the third row had a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst; the fourth row had a chrysolite, an onyx, and a jasper. They were mounted in gold filigree settings." (Exodus 28:18-20)

2. Vision of the Heavenly Throne:
In the Book of Revelation, the apostle John describes a vision of the heavenly throne, where the appearance of the One seated on the throne is surrounded by a rainbow resembling an emerald. This imagery conveys the majesty and glory of God, as well as His covenantal faithfulness:
· "At once I was in the Spirit, and I saw a throne standing in heaven, with someone seated on it. The One seated there looked like jasper and carnelian, and a rainbow that gleamed like an emerald encircled the throne." (Revelation 4:2-3)

3. The New Jerusalem:
The emerald is also mentioned in the description of the New Jerusalem, the heavenly city that descends from God in the vision of the end times. The foundations of the city wall are adorned with various precious stones, including the emerald:
· "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..." (Revelation 21:19)

Symbolism and Significance:

The emerald's vibrant green color is often associated with life, renewal, and growth, reflecting the beauty and vitality of God's creation. In the biblical context, the emerald's presence in the high priest's breastplate signifies its importance in representing the tribes of Israel and serving as a medium for divine guidance.

The emerald-like rainbow encircling the heavenly throne in Revelation symbolizes God's eternal covenant with humanity, reminiscent of the rainbow given to Noah as a sign of God's promise never to flood the earth again (Genesis 9:13-17). This imagery underscores God's faithfulness and mercy, as well as His sovereignty over creation.

In the New Jerusalem, the emerald's inclusion among the foundation stones highlights the city's divine perfection and the eternal beauty of God's kingdom. The emerald, along with other precious stones, serves as a testament to the glory and splendor of the heavenly city, where God's presence dwells with His people.

Overall, the emerald in the Bible is a symbol of divine beauty, covenantal faithfulness, and the eternal life promised to believers. Its presence in key biblical visions and descriptions underscores its significance in the narrative of God's relationship with His creation and His people.

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Revelation 4:3
And he that sat was to look on like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like to an emerald.
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