Topical Encyclopedia Emerald, a precious gemstone known for its rich green color, is mentioned in the Bible as part of the merchandise of the ancient city of Tyre. Tyre, a prominent Phoenician city, was renowned for its wealth and extensive trade networks during biblical times. The city is often depicted in the Scriptures as a hub of commerce and luxury, dealing in a wide array of goods, including precious stones like emeralds.In the book of Ezekiel, the prophet delivers a lamentation over Tyre, highlighting its grandeur and the vastness of its trade. Ezekiel 27:16 states, "Aram was your customer because of your many products; they exchanged turquoise, purple, embroidered work, fine linen, coral, and rubies for your wares." While emeralds are not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the context of Tyre's trade in precious stones and luxurious items suggests that emeralds were likely part of the broader category of valuable merchandise. The significance of emeralds in the biblical context is further underscored by their inclusion among the stones set in the breastplate of the High Priest, as described in Exodus 28:17-20. Although this passage does not directly relate to Tyre, it illustrates the high value and esteem placed on emeralds in ancient times, which would have made them a desirable commodity in trade. Tyre's role as a major trading center is also emphasized in Ezekiel 28, where the city's wealth and pride are condemned. Ezekiel 28:13 describes the abundance of precious stones in Eden, the garden of God, including emeralds: "You were in Eden, the garden of God; every kind of precious stone adorned you: ruby, topaz, and diamond; beryl, onyx, and jasper; sapphire, turquoise, and emerald. Your mountings and settings were crafted in gold, prepared on the day you were created." This passage, while metaphorical, reflects the opulence associated with Tyre and its trade in precious stones. The mention of emeralds in connection with Tyre serves as a reminder of the city's material wealth and the broader biblical themes of pride and judgment. Tyre's reliance on its riches and its eventual downfall are cautionary tales about the dangers of placing trust in material wealth over spiritual values. The inclusion of emeralds in the biblical narrative highlights the allure of earthly treasures and the ultimate sovereignty of God over all creation. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 27:16Syria was your merchant by reason of the multitude of the wares of your making: they occupied in your fairs with emeralds, purple, and broidered work, and fine linen, and coral, and agate. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 28:13 Library Another Cavil Met, IE , the Devil who Instigated Man to Sin ... Of the Fall of the Devil and the Angels. Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest Resources What does the Bible say about crystals? | GotQuestions.orgWill we be able to see all three members of the Trinity in Heaven? | GotQuestions.org Is there any spiritual significance to birthstones? | GotQuestions.org Emerald: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |