Sardius, also known as carnelian, is a precious stone mentioned in the Bible, often associated with beauty, value, and divine symbolism. In the biblical context, sardius is frequently used in figurative language to convey spiritual truths and divine attributes.

Biblical References and Symbolism

1. The High Priest's Breastplate: Sardius is one of the stones set in the breastplate of the High Priest, as described in Exodus 28:17-20. The breastplate, also known as the Breastplate of Judgment, contained twelve stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The sardius stone is listed first, symbolizing the tribe of Reuben. This placement signifies prominence and importance, reflecting Reuben's status as the firstborn son of Jacob. The use of sardius in the breastplate underscores the beauty and value of God's covenant with His people.

2. The New Jerusalem: In the vision of the New Jerusalem described in Revelation 21:19-20, the foundations of the city wall are adorned with various precious stones, including sardius. This imagery highlights the glory and splendor of the heavenly city, emphasizing the divine craftsmanship and eternal beauty of God's kingdom. The presence of sardius in the foundation signifies strength, stability, and the enduring nature of God's promises.

3. The Throne of God: In Revelation 4:3, the One seated on the throne is described as having an appearance "like jasper and carnelian (sardius)." This description conveys the majesty and holiness of God, using the brilliance and radiance of precious stones to illustrate His divine glory. The sardius stone, with its deep red hue, may also symbolize the sacrificial love and atoning work of Christ, whose blood was shed for the redemption of humanity.

Figurative Interpretations

· Divine Judgment and Wrath: The deep red color of sardius can be seen as a representation of divine judgment and wrath. In prophetic literature, red often symbolizes bloodshed and the execution of God's justice. The sardius stone, therefore, may serve as a reminder of God's righteous judgment against sin and His ultimate authority over creation.

· Passion and Zeal: The vibrant color of sardius also conveys passion and zeal. In a spiritual sense, it can represent the fervent love and commitment that believers are called to have for God. Just as the sardius stone is striking and noticeable, so too should the faith and devotion of God's people be evident and unwavering.

· Purification and Redemption: The fiery appearance of sardius can symbolize purification and redemption. The process of refining precious stones involves intense heat, which parallels the spiritual refinement believers undergo through trials and tribulations. Sardius, therefore, can be seen as a metaphor for the transformative power of God's grace, which purifies and redeems His people.

In summary, the figurative use of sardius in the Bible serves to illustrate various aspects of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Through its symbolism, sardius communicates themes of divine beauty, judgment, passion, and redemption, offering believers a deeper understanding of spiritual truths.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.
Nave's Topical Index

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony;
the fourth, an emerald; The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy city or the.htm

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
... and Tophet, places in this country. Indeed, the whole, in a manner, was a
typical and a figurative thing. But I have, in the ensuing ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/solomons temple spiritualized.htm

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
... was a very lively type, "Thou hast been in Eden, the garden of God; every
precious-stone, [that is, doctrine,] was thy covering; as the sardius, topaz, diamond ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm

Sardius: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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