from the same as σάρδιος; sardine (λίθος being implied), i.e. a gem, so called:--sardine.
Transliteration:sárdinos
Pronunciation:sar'-dee-nos
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term σάρδινος (sárdinos, `{{G4555}}`) denotes a specific type of precious stone, commonly known as the "sardine stone" or "sardius." Its base definition indicates its derivation from σάρδιος (sárdios, `{{G4556}}`), which also refers to the same gem. The implied noun λίθος (líthos, stone) confirms its identity as a mineral. Lexically, σάρδινος describes a variety of chalcedony, characterized by its reddish-brown hue, ranging from translucent to opaque. Its semantic range is quite narrow, referring specifically to this particular gem, whose value and aesthetic qualities were highly prized in ancient cultures.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term σάρδινος (sárdinos, `{{G4555}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, within the book of Revelation:
* [[Revelation 4:3]]: "And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald."
In this pivotal vision, John describes the appearance of God (the One seated on the throne) using a simile involving precious stones. The "sardine stone" contributes to the visual portrayal of divine glory and majesty. It is juxtaposed with ἴασπις (íaspis, jasper, `{{G2393}}`), which in Revelation often signifies a clear, crystalline brilliance, and the σμάραγδινος (smarágdinos, emerald, `{{G4665}}`) hue of the rainbow. The reddish-brown color of the sardine stone, in contrast to the jasper's clarity and the emerald's green, adds depth and richness to the divine manifestation. This combination of colors evokes a sense of overwhelming beauty, power, and the multifaceted nature of God's presence. Its inclusion underscores the ineffable and transcendent splendor of the Almighty.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **σάρδιος (sárdios, `{{G4556}}`):** This word is the direct etymological root of σάρδινος and also translates as "sardius." It appears in [[Revelation 21:20]] as one of the twelve foundation stones of the New Jerusalem, further solidifying its connection to divine glory and the heavenly city. The close relationship suggests they refer to the same gem, with σάρδινος possibly emphasizing the adjectival quality ("sardius-like") or being a specific form of the noun.
* **Precious Stones in Biblical Context:** The use of precious stones is a pervasive biblical motif, symbolizing divine glory, wealth, beauty, permanence, and often representing God's people or His dwelling place.
* **Old Testament Connections:** The "sardius" (Hebrew אָדֶם, 'ōdem, `{{H124}}`) was the first stone on the breastplate of the High Priest, representing the tribe of Reuben ([[Exodus 28:17]], [[Exodus 39:10]]). This links the stone to the representation of God's people and priestly intercession.
* **Ezekiel 28:13:** The king of Tyre, in a passage often interpreted as alluding to Satan's fall, is described as being adorned with every precious stone, including the sardius, signifying initial perfection and beauty.
* **Divine Appearance and Glory:** Throughout Scripture, the manifestation of God's presence is often accompanied by brilliant light, fire, and precious materials (e.g., [[Exodus 24:10]], [[Ezekiel 1:26-28]]). The σάρδινος contributes to this visual vocabulary of divine splendor.
### Theological Significance
The appearance of σάρδινος (sárdinos, `{{G4555}}`) in the description of God's throne in [[Revelation 4:3]] carries profound theological weight.
* **Manifestation of Divine Glory:** The sardine stone, with its deep reddish hue, contributes to the overwhelming visual majesty of God. It evokes a sense of awe, reverence, and the unapproachable holiness of the Creator. The fiery aspect potentially symbolizes God's consuming holiness and righteous judgment ([[Hebodus 12:29]]).
* **Purity and Perfection:** As a precious gem, the σάρδινος inherently conveys attributes of purity, value, and perfection, mirroring the flawless character of God. Its presence underscores the ineffable and unblemished nature of the One who sits on the throne.
* **Continuity of Divine Revelation:** The echoes of Old Testament symbolism, particularly the sardius on the High Priest's breastplate and its appearance in descriptions of heavenly or Edenic glory, establish a continuity in God's self-revelation. It links the New Testament vision of God's ultimate glory to the ancient covenant and primordial creation.
* **Eschatological Hope:** While σάρδινος specifically describes God's appearance, its close relative σάρδιος (sárdios, `{{G4556}}`) is a foundation stone of the New Jerusalem ([[Revelation 21:20]]). This connection links the present vision of God's throne to the future consummation of His kingdom, signifying the eternal stability, beauty, and divine presence that will characterize the new heavens and new earth.
### Summary
The Greek word σάρδινος (sárdinos, `{{G4555}}`) precisely identifies the "sardine stone," a reddish-brown precious gem. Its singular New Testament occurrence in [[Revelation 4:3]] is profoundly significant, where it contributes to the description of God's majestic appearance on His throne. Paired with jasper and an emerald-like rainbow, the σάρδινος symbolizes the dazzling glory, fiery holiness, and unblemished perfection of the Almighty. This gem is closely related to σάρδιος (sárdios, `{{G4556}}`), which also denotes the sardius stone and appears as a foundation stone of the New Jerusalem, thereby connecting the present vision of divine glory to the future eternal state. The theological significance of σάρδινος lies in its powerful contribution to the biblical lexicon of divine splendor, purity, and the enduring nature of God's presence, bridging Old and New Testament symbolism of precious stones as emblems of sacredness and ultimate value.
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