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What does the Bible say about the blue sapphire?

Published in Biblical Gems 4 mins read

The Bible describes the blue sapphire as a precious, sky-blue stone, notably associated with divine glory and the very throne of God.

The Nature and Origin of Sapphire in Biblical Context

The sapphire, as understood in biblical times, was a highly valued gem, characterized by its striking sky-blue color. Biblical scholars suggest that this stone may have been what we now know as lapis lazuli, a deep-blue metamorphic rock prized since antiquity. Historically, such precious stones, including the sapphire, were often brought from regions like Babylon, a renowned center for trade and ancient civilizations.

Symbolism and Significance of Sapphire in Scripture

The blue sapphire holds significant symbolic weight in the Bible, primarily representing purity, heavenly glory, and divine presence. Its most prominent mentions directly link it to the majesty of God.

The Pavement Under God's Feet

During the covenant ceremony at Mount Sinai, Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and the seventy elders of Israel ascended the mountain. There, they had a profound vision:

"And they saw the God of Israel: and there was under his feet as it were a paved work of a sapphire stone, and as it were the body of heaven in its clearness."
(Exodus 24:10 KJV)

This description emphasizes the incredible, awe-inspiring nature of God's presence, likening the very ground beneath Him to the brilliant blue of sapphire, clear as the heavens themselves.

The Throne of God

The prophet Ezekiel, in his vivid vision of God's glory and cherubim, describes a similar scene that reinforces the sapphire's divine association:

"And above the firmament that was over their heads was the likeness of a throne, as the appearance of a sapphire stone: and upon the likeness of the throne was the likeness as the appearance of a man above upon it."
(Ezekiel 1:26 KJV)

Here, the sapphire is not just the pavement but the very essence of God's throne, signifying His majesty, sovereignty, and the celestial purity of His dwelling.

Other Biblical Mentions of Sapphire

While its connection to God's throne is paramount, the sapphire also appears in other significant biblical contexts, underscoring its value and beauty:

  • High Priest's Breastplate: Sapphire was one of the twelve precious stones set in the breastplate of the High Priest, symbolizing one of the tribes of Israel (Exodus 28:18).
  • Foundations of the New Jerusalem: In the apocalyptic vision of the New Jerusalem, sapphire is listed as the second foundation stone of the city's wall, symbolizing its divine origin and eternal beauty (Revelation 21:19).

Summary of Sapphire's Biblical Role

The blue sapphire, in biblical accounts, is more than just a beautiful gem; it is a profound symbol of the divine. Its deep blue hue is consistently associated with:

  • Heavenly Purity: Reflecting the clearness of the heavens.
  • God's Sovereignty: Forming the very throne or pavement beneath God's feet.
  • Divine Presence: A marker of sacred and holy ground or structures.

This consistent portrayal establishes the sapphire as a stone intimately linked with God's glory and majesty throughout scripture.

Biblical Reference Context / Significance
Exodus 24:10 The pavement under God's feet, clear as the heavens.
Ezekiel 1:26 The likeness of God's throne above the firmament.
Exodus 28:18 One of the stones in the High Priest's breastplate.
Revelation 21:19 The second foundation stone of the wall of the New Jerusalem.