### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma σάρδιος (sárdios), transliterated as *sárdios*, refers to the precious stone known as a sardius or carnelian. The base definition indicates its origin as an adjective, likely derived from Sardis, an ancient city in Lydia renowned for its gemstones, used substantively to denote the gem itself. Characteristically, the sardius is a reddish-brown or reddish-orange chalcedony, a cryptocrystalline form of silica. Its color is a key aspect of its semantic range, often evoking associations with fire, blood, or deep warmth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term σάρδιος appears twice in the New Testament, exclusively within the book of Revelation, where it contributes to the rich symbolic tapestry of divine revelation.
1. **[[Revelation 4:3]]**: "And He who sat there was like a jasper stone and a sardius in appearance; and there was a rainbow around the throne, like an emerald in appearance." Here, the sardius is used in conjunction with the jasper stone to describe the awe-inspiring appearance of God enthroned. The jasper is often understood as clear and brilliant, symbolizing purity and light, while the fiery red of the sardius suggests divine holiness, consuming fire (cf. [[Hebrews 12:29]]), and perhaps righteous judgment or intense glory. The combination creates a visual representation of God's multifaceted majesty and terrifying beauty.
2. **[[Revelation 21:20]]**: "the fifth, sardius; the sixth, sardonyx; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, topaz; the tenth, chrysoprase; the eleventh, jacinth; the twelfth, amethyst." In this passage, the sardius is listed as the fifth of the twelve foundation stones of the New Jerusalem. Each stone contributes to the city's radiant splendor, reflecting the glory of God and the Lamb. Its inclusion among these precious gems signifies the immense value, beauty, and divine establishment of the eschatological city. The specific order and type of stones may carry further symbolic weight, though the primary emphasis is on their collective brilliance and preciousness.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of σάρδιος is enriched by considering its connections to other biblical terms and concepts.
* **Old Testament Counterpart**: The most direct Old Testament parallel is the Hebrew word `{{H7248}}` (*ōdem*), which is consistently translated as "sardius" (or sometimes "ruby") in English versions. This stone was the first of the twelve stones in the high priest's breastplate, representing the tribe of Reuben ([[Exodus 28:17]], [[Exodus 39:10]]). This connection establishes a continuity of symbolism between the Old Covenant priestly garments and the New Testament's vision of divine glory and the heavenly city.
* **Other Gemstones in Revelation**: σάρδιος is always presented in the company of other precious stones in Revelation (e.g., jasper `{{G2393}}`, emerald `{{G4665}}`, chrysolite `{{G5555}}`). Understanding its meaning often requires considering its interplay with these other gems, which collectively form a picture of divine splendor, purity, and the preciousness of God's eternal dwelling.
* **Symbolism of Color**: The reddish hue of the sardius is significant. Red in biblical symbolism can represent life and blood (especially the atoning blood of Christ), divine judgment, war, or fervent love. In the context of God's throne, it powerfully conveys His fiery holiness and unapproachable glory.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of σάρδιος is profound, primarily contributing to the eschatological vision and the nature of God.
* **Divine Glory and Majesty**: In its appearance on God's throne ([[Revelation 4:3]]), the sardius vividly portrays the ineffable glory and majesty of the Almighty. Its fiery color speaks to God's holiness, His character as a "consuming fire" ([[Hebrews 12:29]]), and His righteous judgment. The combination with the clear jasper suggests a balance of purity and power, light and intense presence, underscoring the awe and reverence due to the divine presence.
* **Foundation of the New Jerusalem**: As one of the twelve foundation stones of the New Jerusalem ([[Revelation 21:20]]), the sardius signifies the enduring beauty, preciousness, and divine establishment of God's eternal city. Each stone, including the sardius, contributes to the city's radiant brilliance, symbolizing the perfection and glory of the redeemed community dwelling in God's presence. Its inclusion underscores the preciousness of God's redemptive work and the secure, divinely-ordained nature of the heavenly dwelling. The foundational aspect can also subtly evoke the sacrifice of Christ, which undergirds the new creation.
* **Continuity of Divine Revelation**: The parallel with the Old Testament *ōdem* in the high priest's breastplate suggests a continuity in God's revelation and His covenant with humanity. The preciousness of the stones in both contexts signifies God's valuing of His people and His eternal plan, now brought to glorious fulfillment in the New Jerusalem.
### Summary
The Greek word σάρδιος (sárdios), referring to the sardius or carnelian gemstone, is a term of significant theological import within the New Testament, exclusively appearing in the book of Revelation. Its core meaning denotes a precious, reddish-brown stone. Biblically, it features prominently in two contexts: first, describing the appearance of God on His throne, where its fiery hue contributes to the depiction of divine majesty, holiness, and consuming glory ([[Revelation 4:3]]); and second, as the fifth of the twelve foundational stones of the New Jerusalem, symbolizing the enduring beauty, preciousness, and divine establishment of God's eternal dwelling ([[Revelation 21:20]]). Related to the Old Testament `{{H7248}}` (*ōdem*) found in the high priest's breastplate, σάρδιος bridges ancient covenant symbolism with the eschatological vision of God's perfected kingdom. Theologically, the sardius powerfully underscores God's awe-inspiring presence, His righteous character, and the radiant perfection of the heavenly city, reflecting both His unapproachable light and His steadfast love, which are foundational to the new creation.
TRV