The Greek word sárdinos, represented by G4555, refers to a sardine stone, a type of gem. It appears just 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its sole use is within a majestic vision to describe the appearance of the one seated on a heavenly throne, with the word for stone, líthos G3037, being explicitly stated with it.
The only biblical appearance of G4555 is in the vision of the throne room of God Revelation 4:3. The one who sat G2521 on the throne G2362 was G2258 to look upon like G3664 a jasper G2393 and G2532 a sardine stone. This description is part of a scene of immense glory, which also includes a rainbow G2463 surrounding the throne, which had the sight G3706 of an emerald G4664.
Several related words in the immediate context help to understand the use of sárdinos:
- G2393 íaspis (a gem, "jasper"): This gem is mentioned directly alongside sárdinos to describe the appearance of the one on the throne Revelation 4:3. It is also described as a stone G3037 most precious Revelation 21:11.
- G3037 líthos (a stone): The word sárdinos is explicitly paired with líthos in its only occurrence, forming the phrase "sardine stone" Revelation 4:3. The term is also used for the chief corner stone 1 Peter 2:6.
- G3664 hómoios (similar, like): This term is used to frame the description, indicating that the appearance of the one on the throne was like a jasper and a sardine stone Revelation 4:3.
- G2362 thrónos (a stately seat, "throne"): The entire vision centers on the throne where the one with the appearance of a sárdinos sits Revelation 4:3. The throne is a symbol of power and authority Colossians 1:16.
- G3706 hórasis (the act of gazing, an aspect): This word conveys that the description is based on a visual appearance or sight. The one who sat was like a sardine stone to look upon Revelation 4:3.
- G4664 smarágdinos (consisting of emerald): Used in the same verse, this describes the appearance of the rainbow around the throne, which was "in sight G3706 like G3664 unto an emerald" Revelation 4:3.
The theological weight of G4555 is derived entirely from its single use in describing the divine presence:
- Visualizing Divine Glory: The use of sárdinos, along with íaspis G2393, provides a tangible, visual metaphor for the indescribable glory and appearance of God on His throne. The description is not literal but like G3664 these precious gems Revelation 4:3.
- Component of Divine Majesty: It is not used alone but in conjunction with another gem. The appearance was like a jasper and G2532 a sardine stone, suggesting a beauty and majesty that cannot be captured by a single description.
- Throne Room Context: The gem's mention is set within the scene of the heavenly throne G2362, which is the center of worship and sovereign rule. The appearance of the one who sat G2521 is the focal point of this divine court Revelation 4:3.
In summary, G4555 sárdinos is a specific term for a gem whose importance comes from its singular, powerful context. Used only in Revelation, it serves alongside jasper G2393 to create a visual representation of the glory of the one seated on the heavenly throne G2362. It illustrates how the biblical author uses the beauty of the created world, like a precious stone G3037, to convey a glimpse of the uncreated majesty of God.
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