A Precious Gem Part VII

We have nearly completed our study into the meaning behind the different gemstones found throughout scripture. In this study, we have been using the root word as well as the scriptural context to determine the meanings. Today, we will be looking at three more gems: jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst.

First, we will look at jacinth. In some translations, this stone is identified as a ligure. However, when you look at the root word, H3958, you see that it is a jacinth, which is a yellow-red to red-brown colored gem, and is first mentioned in Exodus 28:19 as the first stone in the third row of the priest's garments. Due to its color, the biblical symbolism associated with jacinth is fire, judgment, and divine glory. Based on its presence in the High Priest’s garments and the foundations of New Jerusalem found in Revelation 21:20, it suggests divine authority and the eternal covenant between God and His people.

The second stone we will look at today is the agate. The word for agate used in Exodus 28 is H7618, which means “from an unused root (probably identical with that of H7617 through the idea of subdivision into flashes or streamers meaning to flame; a gem (from its sparkle), probably the agate.” Since H7618 stems from H7617, we need to look at this meaning as well. H7617 means, “A primitive root; to transport into captivity:-(bring {away}{carry} carry {away} {lead} lead{away} take) captive({s}) drive (take) away.” In biblical symbolism, agate is associated with strength, stability, and protection.

Finally, we will look at the amethyst. The root word for this gem comes from H2492, which means “a primitive root; properly to bind {firmly}that {is}(by implication) to be (causatively to make) plump; also (through the figurative sense of dumbness) to dream: (cause to) dream ({-er}) be in good {liking} recover.” When looking at the definition of this stone, it is hard to believe that it could possess good qualities; however, since it is included in the High Priest’s garments, there would have to be qualities that God wanted. This is why we also must consider the Biblical symbolism and look at other uses of H2492 in scripture. The earliest use of H2492 is found in Genesis 28:12.

“12 Then he dreamed, and behold, a ladder was set up on the earth, and its top reached to heaven; and there the angels of God were ascending and descending on it.”

Genesis 28 describes God giving a promise to Jacob that his descendants will be numerous and blessed. The next several times that H2492 is used in scripture all focus on Joseph and his dreams. It is through passages such as these that I believe we can find the meaning behind the amethyst, and that is clarity of thought and insight.

These three stones are each unique and possess qualities that can deepen our understanding of God’s characteristics and His promises. Next week, we will look at the fourth and last row of the stones found in the High Priest’s garments.

Seek the truth and encourage one another,

Alex