from the base of σάρδιος and (the nail of a finger; hence the "onyx" stone); a "sardonyx", i.e. the gem so called:-- sardonyx.
Transliteration:sardónyx
Pronunciation:sar-don'-oox
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term σαρδόνυξ (sardónyx, `{{G4557}}`) refers to a specific variety of onyx, characterized by its reddish-brown or orange-red layers, often interspersed with white or lighter bands. The word itself is a compound, derived from σάρδιος (sardios, `{{G4556}}`), which denotes the sard or carnelian stone, and ὄνυξ (onyx, from which we get "onyx"), originally meaning "fingernail" or "hoof," and by extension, a stone resembling the color of a fingernail. Thus, the sardonyx is literally a "sard-onyx," combining the fiery red hues of the sard with the layered, often translucent qualities of the onyx. In the ancient world, it was highly valued for its striking beauty and durability, often used in jewelry, seals, and cameos. Its distinct banding made it particularly suitable for intricate carving, allowing for contrasting colors to be exploited for artistic effect.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term σαρδόνυξ (sardónyx, `{{G4557}}`) appears only once in the biblical text, specifically in the Book of Revelation:
* **[[Revelation 21:20]]**: "The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, topaz; the tenth, chrysoprase; the eleventh, jacinth; the twelfth, amethyst."
In this singular occurrence, sardonyx is listed as the fifth foundation stone of the wall of the New Jerusalem, the glorious city descending from heaven. This context is profoundly eschatological and symbolic. The twelve foundation stones are described as adorned with "every kind of precious stone," each bearing the name of one of the twelve apostles of the Lamb ([[Revelation 21:14]]). The placement of sardonyx among these twelve foundational gems signifies its intrinsic value and its contribution to the overall splendor and divine order of the heavenly city. Its presence underscores the unparalleled beauty, purity, and permanence of God's ultimate dwelling place with humanity. The sequence of stones, including the sardonyx, paints a vivid picture of a city permeated by divine light and glory, reflecting the very nature of God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of σαρδόνυξ (sardónyx, `{{G4557}}`) is enriched by examining its constituent parts and the broader biblical symbolism of precious stones:
* **σάρδιος (sardios, `{{G4556}}`)**: The "sard" or "carnelian" component is significant. Sard is frequently mentioned in Scripture, often associated with fire, glory, and divine presence. For instance, the one seated on the throne in [[Revelation 4:3]] is described as having the appearance of "a jasper and a sardius." This connection imbues the sardonyx with associations of divine majesty, unblemished purity, and the radiant splendor of God.
* **ὄνυξ (onyx)**: While not a direct Strong's number for the *stone* onyx in the NT, the concept of onyx is prevalent in the Old Testament (e.g., `{{H7718}}` שֹׁהַם, shoham). Onyx stones were prominently featured in the high priest's ephod and breastplate ([[Exodus 28:9-12]], [[Exodus 28:20]]), bearing the names of the tribes of Israel. This association suggests a connection to representation, divine remembrance, and the priestly mediation of God's people.
* **Precious Stones in General**: Throughout Scripture, precious stones symbolize beauty, wealth, divine glory, and permanence. They adorn sacred spaces (e.g., the Garden of Eden in [[Ezekiel 28:13]]), priestly garments, and prophetic visions of God's throne and heavenly realities. In the New Jerusalem, they collectively represent the consummation of God's redemptive plan, a place of perfect light, purity, and enduring peace. The variety of colors and properties of the twelve foundation stones speaks to the multifaceted glory of God and the diverse beauty of His redeemed people.
### Theological Significance
The inclusion of sardonyx as the fifth foundation stone of the New Jerusalem carries profound theological significance. It contributes to the overall symbolic tapestry of God's perfected kingdom:
* **Divine Glory and Beauty**: The radiant array of precious stones, including the sardonyx, underscores the unimaginable glory and beauty of God's presence. The city itself is a manifestation of divine perfection, reflecting the light of God and the Lamb ([[Revelation 21:23]]). The sardonyx, with its striking layers of red and white, adds to this kaleidoscope of divine light, symbolizing purity, sacrifice, and the brilliance of the divine.
* **Permanence and Security**: Foundations are essential for stability and endurance. The use of precious, incorruptible stones for the city's foundations signifies the eternal and unshakeable nature of God's dwelling place. The New Jerusalem is not a temporary structure but an everlasting reality, firmly established by divine decree.
* **Apostolic Witness**: The twelve foundation stones are inscribed with the names of the twelve apostles, linking the physical structure of the heavenly city to the historical foundation of the Church, which is "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone" ([[Ephesians 2:20]]). The sardonyx, as one of these stones, therefore participates in symbolizing the enduring legacy and foundational truth of the apostolic witness to Christ.
* **Redemption and Purity**: The combination of red (from sard) and white/translucent (from onyx) in the sardonyx can be seen as a subtle symbolic representation of redemption through the blood of Christ and the subsequent purity of His saints. The city is pure because it is the dwelling place of a holy God and His redeemed people, washed clean by the Lamb.
### Summary
The σαρδόνυξ (sardónyx, `{{G4557}}`) is a precious gemstone, a layered variety of onyx combining the deep red of sard with the lighter hues of onyx. Its sole biblical appearance in [[Revelation 21:20]] places it as the fifth foundation stone of the New Jerusalem. This singular mention imbues it with significant eschatological and symbolic meaning. As part of the twelve foundational stones, it contributes to the depiction of God's ultimate dwelling place as one of unparalleled beauty, divine glory, and eternal permanence. Its layered colors may subtly allude to the purity and redemption found in Christ, while its inclusion among the apostolic stones underscores the foundational role of the apostles in God's eternal kingdom. The sardonyx, therefore, stands as a testament to the radiant perfection and enduring truth of God's final, glorious habitation with humanity.
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