### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **íaspis**, represented by `{{G2393}}`, is a term for the gem **jasper**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. This word is used exclusively in the book of Revelation to describe divine glory and the foundational materials of the New Jerusalem.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2393}}` is used in specific, powerful contexts. In the vision of the throne room, the one who sat on the throne was described as being "to look upon like a **jasper** and a sardine stone" [[Revelation 4:3]]. The word is also central to the description of the New Jerusalem, where the city's light, which is the glory of God, is "like unto a stone most precious, even like a **jasper** stone, clear as crystal" [[Revelation 21:11]]. The very structure of the city incorporates this gem, as "the building of the wall of it was of **jasper**" [[Revelation 21:18]], and it is named as the first foundation stone of the city's wall [[Revelation 21:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the qualities and context of **íaspis**:
* `{{G3037}}` **líthos** (a stone): This word is used to classify **íaspis** as a "stone" in multiple contexts, such as a "stone most precious" [[Revelation 21:11]] and as one of many "precious stones" [[Revelation 21:19]].
* `{{G5093}}` **tímios** (precious): This term highlights the immense value of **íaspis**. It is called a "stone most **precious**" [[Revelation 21:11]] and is listed among "all manner of **precious** stones" used for the city's foundations [[Revelation 21:19]].
* `{{G2929}}` **krystallízō** (be clear as crystal): This describes a unique quality of the biblical **íaspis**, specifying it is "clear as crystal" [[Revelation 21:11]], linking it to absolute purity and clarity.
* `{{G4555}}` **sárdinos** (sardine): This gem is mentioned alongside **íaspis** in the description of the one on the throne, creating a composite image of divine appearance [[Revelation 4:3]].
* `{{G4552}}` **sáppheiros** (sapphire): This gem is listed as the second foundation of the New Jerusalem's wall, immediately following **íaspis**, illustrating how **íaspis** leads a sequence of precious materials [[Revelation 21:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2393}}` is significant, particularly in eschatology.
* **Representation of Divine Glory:** **Íaspis** is used to convey the visual splendor of God. The one on the throne has the appearance of **jasper** [[Revelation 4:3]], and the light of the New Jerusalem, which holds God's glory, is like a **jasper** stone [[Revelation 21:11]].
* **Foundational Material of God's City:** The gem is not merely decorative but structural and foundational to God's eternal city. The wall itself is built of **jasper** [[Revelation 21:18]], and it is named as the first foundation stone, signifying its primary importance [[Revelation 21:19]].
* **Symbol of Purity and Preciousness:** The biblical **jasper** is defined by its value and clarity. It is a "stone most **precious**" [[Revelation 21:11]] and, uniquely, "clear as crystal" [[Revelation 21:11]], associating it with the absolute purity and worth of God's presence.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2393}}` **íaspis** is a term reserved for describing the highest levels of divine reality in the book of Revelation. It is more than a gem; it is a symbol of God's glorious appearance, the foundational strength of His eternal kingdom, and the priceless purity that characterizes His presence. From the appearance of God on the throne to the very walls of the New Jerusalem, **íaspis** serves as a key descriptor of the beauty and perfection of the divine.
TRV