### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sáppheiros**, represented by `{{G4552}}`, is a gem known as a **"sapphire"** or lapis-lazuli. Derived from a Hebrew origin (סַפִּיר), it is a rare term in the New Testament. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, highlighting its specific and singular role in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G4552}}` is found in the description of the New Jerusalem. In this vision, the **foundations** `{{G2310}}` of the **wall** `{{G5038}}` of the holy **city** `{{G4172}}` are described as being **garnished with** `{{G2885}}` all manner of **precious** `{{G5093}}` **stones** `{{G3037}}`. Specifically, the **second** `{{G1208}}` foundation is identified as **sapphire** [[Revelation 21:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of **sáppheiros**'s singular use:
* `{{G2310}}` **themélios** (foundation): This word, meaning "something put down, i.e. a substruction," is central to the context. While it literally describes the city's **foundations** [[Revelation 21:19]], it is also used metaphorically for the sure **foundation** of God [[2 Timothy 2:19]] and for Jesus Christ himself [[1 Corinthians 3:11]].
* `{{G3037}}` **líthos** (stone): This general term for "a stone" provides the category for **sapphire**. The foundations are built with **precious** `{{G5093}}` **stones** [[1 Corinthians 3:12]]. This word also refers to Christ as the chief corner **stone** [[Matthew 21:42]] and to believers as lively **stones** [[1 Peter 2:5]].
* `{{G5093}}` **tímios** (precious): This adjective, meaning "valuable... costly, or... honored," qualifies the stones of the foundation, emphasizing the great worth of God's city [[Revelation 21:19]]. The term is also applied to the "more **precious**" trial of faith [[1 Peter 1:7]] and the **precious** blood of Christ [[1 Peter 1:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4552}}` is tied exclusively to its place in the New Jerusalem.
* **Divine Foundation:** The inclusion of **sapphire** as a foundational stone signifies its role in the permanent and glorious structure of God's eternal dwelling. The **wall** `{{G5038}}` of the city is established upon twelve **foundations** `{{G2310}}`, each one a **precious** `{{G5093}}` gem ([[Revelation 21:14]], [[Revelation 21:19]]).
* **Garnished for Glory:** The foundations are explicitly **garnished with** `{{G2885}}` these gems, indicating a deliberate act of divine adornment. Just as a bride is **adorned** `{{G2885}}` for her husband, the holy city is prepared and made beautiful by God [[Revelation 21:2]].
* **Ordered Beauty:** The placement of **sapphire** is not random; it is the **second** `{{G1208}}` foundation in a specific sequence that includes **jasper** `{{G2393}}` as the **first** `{{G4413}}`, chalcedony as the **third** `{{G5154}}`, and emerald as the **fourth** `{{G5067}}` [[Revelation 21:19]]. This highlights the divine order and intentional design in God's perfect city.
### Summary
In summary, **sáppheiros** `{{G4552}}` is a highly specific term whose entire New Testament significance is derived from its single appearance. As the **second** foundation stone of the New Jerusalem, this **precious** `{{G5093}}` gem contributes to a vision of divine beauty, permanence, and perfect order. It illustrates how even a word used only once can hold immense weight when describing the glorious and eternal city of God [[Revelation 21:19]].
TRV