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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.comVincent Word Studies - Revelation 21:19 - 21:19
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This Chapter Verse Commentaries:
All manner of precious stones
Compare Isaiah 54;11, Isa 12:1-6; 1Ch 29:2.
Sapphire (σάπφειρος)
Compare Isa 54:11; Eze 1:26. Probably lapis lazuli. Our sapphire is supposed to be represented by the jacinth in Rev 21:20. Pliny describes the σάπφειρος as opaque and sprinkled with specks of gold, and states that it came from Media (i.e. Persia and Bokhara) whence the supply is brought to this day. King (“Precious Stones and Gems,” cited by Lee), says: “Before the true precious stones were introduced from India, the lapis lazuli held the highest place in the estimation of the primitive nations of Asia and Greece; in fact it was almost the only stone known to them having beauty of color to recommend it.”
Chalcedony (χαλκηδών)
From Chalcedon, where the stone was found in the neighboring copper mines. It was probably an inferior species of emerald, as crystal of carbonate of copper, which is still popularly called “the copper emerald.” Pliny describes it as small and brittle, changing its color when moved about, like the green feathers in the necks of peacocks and pigeons.
Emerald
See on Rev 4:3.