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.
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.
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.
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.
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