A Precious Gem Part II
Today, we begin our study on the different gems found in scripture. In preparing for this study, I have found that there are many people who have looked into it. And I have also found that not everyone agrees on the meaning behind the different gems. So for the purpose of this study, we are going to be doing what every person who follows Jesus Christ should be doing, seeing what scripture says. This means that we will be comparing not only what scholars say is the meaning behind the gems, but also looking at the verses that describe these gems and seeing what we can learn. Often, the answer is simple if you only look to what scripture says. This is because, “16 All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, for training in righteousness; 17 so that the man or woman of God may be fully capable, equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17. When the Bible says “all scripture” it truly means “all scripture” even ones that seem to go off one rabbit trails. I fully believe that in studying the meaning behind the gems, we will be able to see more of our Heavenly Father. So with that, let us dive into the first gem: sapphire!
The first mention of this stone is in Exodus 24, and ironically was the first that made me first look into the meanings of the stones. “9 Then Moses went up with Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel, 10 and they saw the God of Israel; and under His feet there appeared to be a pavement of sapphire, as clear as the sky itself. 11 Yet He did not reach out with His hand against the nobles of the sons of Israel; and they saw God, and they ate and drank.” Exodus 24:9-11. Based on this description, we can determine that the sapphire mentioned here is what we would think of today- a bright blue stone that matches the color of the sky.
However, when you look at the original Hebrew word for sapphire, you get, “properly to score with a mark as a tally or record, that is to inscribe and also to enumerate; intensively to recount, that is to celebrate and declare”. So already we can see that this gem has a meaning to it, which is used to record. This is ironic when you consider what had occurred from Exodus chapter 20 to chapter 23- the chapters where Moses is tasked by God to record the ten commandments, ordinances, and the sundry laws.
But what does it mean that Moses, Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu saw underneath God’s feet a pavement of sapphire? This is where I believe that we can find the meaning behind the gem. We have already seen that this gem is associated with recording, but the fact that these men saw it underneath the feet of God shows God’s authority over the law. Which is why I believe that using sapphire is a symbol of beauty, authority, and promise. God’s word is truly multifaceted and needs to be continually examined!
Seek the truth and encourage on another,
Alex