### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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.
TRV