Topical Encyclopedia Sardius, also known as carnelian, is a precious stone mentioned in the Bible, noted for its deep red color. It holds significant symbolic and historical importance within the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the Garden of Eden and the broader scriptural tradition.Biblical References and Symbolism The mention of sardius in the context of the Garden of Eden is found in Ezekiel 28:13, where the prophet Ezekiel describes the adornment of the King of Tyre, using imagery that evokes the splendor of Eden: "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 of your creation" . In this passage, the term "ruby" is often translated from the Hebrew word "odem," which is commonly understood to refer to sardius or carnelian. The use of sardius in this context symbolizes beauty, wealth, and divine craftsmanship. The stone's deep red hue is often associated with themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the blood of atonement, which are central to the Christian understanding of salvation history. Priestly Garments and the Breastplate of Judgment Sardius also appears in the description of the High Priest's breastplate, known as the Breastplate of Judgment, as detailed in Exodus 28:17-20. The breastplate contained twelve stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Sardius is listed as the first stone: "And mount on it a setting of gemstones—four rows of stones: The first row shall be a ruby, a topaz, and an emerald" (Exodus 28:17). This placement underscores the stone's prominence and its association with the tribe of Reuben, the firstborn of Jacob. The inclusion of sardius in the High Priest's breastplate signifies its role in the divine order and the covenant relationship between God and His people. The breastplate served as a tangible reminder of the priest's role as an intercessor and mediator, bearing the names of the tribes before the Lord. The New Jerusalem In the eschatological vision of the New Jerusalem, described in Revelation 21:19-20, sardius is again mentioned as one of the foundational stones of the city: "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, the fifth sardonyx, the sixth carnelian..." . Here, sardius is referred to as carnelian, highlighting its enduring significance in the divine plan and the ultimate restoration of creation. Cultural and Historical Context In ancient cultures, sardius was highly valued for its beauty and durability. It was often used in jewelry, seals, and amulets, believed to possess protective and healing properties. The stone's prominence in biblical texts reflects its esteemed status and the theological meanings ascribed to it. Conclusion Sardius, with its rich biblical associations, serves as a symbol of divine beauty, covenantal faithfulness, and the hope of redemption. Its presence in the Garden of Eden, the priestly garments, and the New Jerusalem underscores its integral role in the biblical narrative, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises to His people. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 28:13You have been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was your covering, the sardius, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of your tabrets and of your pipes was prepared in you in the day that you were created. Nave's Topical Index Library Index of Tunes. The First vision "In Heaven": Chapters 4-5 The People of the New Earth An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: Introduction to Oration ii. Resources Sardius: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sardius: Seen in John's Apocalyptic Vision of the Foundation of the New Jerusalem Related Terms |
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