Topical Bible: Topaz in the Breastplate

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Topical Encyclopedia

Topaz is one of the twelve precious stones mentioned in the Bible as part of the High Priest's breastplate, also known as the Breastplate of Judgment. This sacred garment was worn by the High Priest of Israel and is described in the Book of Exodus. The breastplate was a square piece of fabric adorned with twelve stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The inclusion of topaz in this significant religious artifact underscores its value and importance in biblical times.

Biblical References

The primary biblical reference to topaz in the context of the High Priest's breastplate is found in Exodus 28:17-20. The Berean Standard Bible states:

"You are to mount on it a setting of gemstones—four rows of stones: The first row shall be a ruby, a topaz, and an emerald; the second row shall be a turquoise, a sapphire, and a diamond; the third row shall be a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst; and the fourth row shall be a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. Mount these stones in gold filigree settings."

In this passage, topaz is listed as the second stone in the first row. Each stone was set in gold filigree, highlighting its preciousness and the skill involved in crafting the breastplate.

Symbolism and Significance

Topaz, like the other stones in the breastplate, held symbolic significance. While the exact symbolism of each stone is not explicitly detailed in the Bible, it is generally understood that the stones collectively represented the tribes of Israel, serving as a reminder of the covenant between God and His people. The breastplate was not only a piece of ceremonial attire but also a tool for divine communication, as it contained the Urim and Thummim, used for discerning God's will.

The Hebrew word for topaz, "pitdah," is thought to refer to a yellow or golden gemstone, which aligns with the characteristics of topaz known today. In ancient times, topaz was highly valued for its beauty and rarity, making it a fitting representation of one of the tribes of Israel.

Historical and Cultural Context

Topaz has been prized throughout history for its brilliance and color. In the ancient Near East, where the Israelites lived, gemstones were often associated with divine favor and protection. The use of topaz in the High Priest's breastplate reflects the broader cultural appreciation for gemstones and their perceived spiritual significance.

The exact identification of biblical topaz with the modern gemstone of the same name is debated among scholars. Some suggest that the biblical topaz may have been what we now call chrysolite or peridot, given the variations in gemstone identification over the centuries. Regardless of the precise identification, the inclusion of topaz in the breastplate highlights its esteemed status in biblical times.

Conclusion

The presence of topaz in the High Priest's breastplate serves as a testament to its value and significance in the religious and cultural life of ancient Israel. As one of the twelve stones representing the tribes of Israel, topaz played a role in the sacred duties of the High Priest, symbolizing the connection between God and His chosen people.

Nave's Topical Index

Exodus 28:17
And you shall set in it settings of stones, even four rows of stones: the first row shall be a sardius, a topaz, and a carbuncle: this shall be the first row.
Nave's Topical Index

Exodus 39:10
And they set in it four rows of stones: the first row was a sardius, a topaz, and a carbuncle: this was the first row.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Introduction.
... topazion topaz x. chrusoprasos chrysoprasus xi ... These precious stones have been
identified as follows, taking the High Priest's breastplate: i. 1. Red carnelian ...
/.../ambrose/works and letters of st ambrose/introduction 4.htm

Concerning the Garments of the Priests, and of the High Priest.
... that were themselves inserted in the breastplate, and were so made that they might
not fall out low the first three stones were a sardonyx, a topaz, and an ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 7 concerning the garments.htm

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald; The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius;
the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy city or the.htm