### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma σμαράγδινος (smarágdinos, `{{G4664}}`) is an adjective derived from the noun σμάραγδος (smarágdos), which refers to the precious gemstone "emerald." Its core meaning is therefore "consisting of emerald," "made of emerald," or "emerald-like." Semantically, it describes something that possesses the characteristic qualities of an emerald, primarily its distinctive green color, but also implicitly its brilliance, purity, and preciousness. The word's semantic range is highly specific, directly tied to the physical properties and aesthetic value of the emerald.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term σμαράγδινος (smarágdinos, `{{G4664}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the book of Revelation:
* [[Revelation 4:3]]: "And He who sat there was like a jasper stone and a sardius in appearance; and a rainbow around the throne, like an emerald in appearance."
In this visionary passage, the apostle John is granted a glimpse into God's heavenly throne room. The description uses various precious stones to convey the ineffable glory and majesty of God. The rainbow around the throne, appearing "like an emerald," contributes to this visual splendor. The emerald's deep, vibrant green color contrasts with the fiery red of the sardius and the translucent clarity of the jasper, creating a multifaceted depiction of divine brilliance. This emerald-like rainbow evokes a sense of freshness, life, and perhaps the verdant beauty of a restored creation, all emanating from the divine presence. It also recalls the rainbow as a sign of God's covenant faithfulness established with Noah ([[Genesis 9:13-16]]), suggesting that God's promises are as enduring and precious as the most valuable gems.
### Related Words & Concepts
* The direct etymological root is σμάραγδος (smarágdos), the noun for "emerald." While not a distinct Strong's number, it is the base from which σμαράγδινος is formed.
* Other precious stones mentioned in Revelation, particularly in the description of the New Jerusalem's foundations, include ἴασπις (iaspis, jasper, `{{G2393}}`), σαρδίον (sardion, sardius, `{{G4556}}`), σαπφῖρος (sappheiros, sapphire, `{{G4558}}`), and numerous others in [[Revelation 21:19-20]]. These words collectively contribute to the imagery of divine glory and the preciousness of God's dwelling place.
* The concept of a "rainbow" (ἶρις, iris, `{{G2473}}`) as a symbol of divine presence and covenant is a significant related concept, with roots in the Old Testament ([[Genesis 9:13-16]], [[Ezekiel 1:28]]).
* The broader theme of divine glory (δόξα, doxa, `{{G1391}}`) and majesty, often depicted through brilliant light, fire, and precious materials, is central to the context of σμαράγδινος.
* Old Testament parallels, such as the description of the high priest's breastplate with its twelve stones ([[Exodus 28:15-21]]), which included an emerald (Hebrew: בָּרֶקֶת, bareqeth, `{{H1304}}`), also connect precious stones to sacred and divine contexts.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of σμαράγδινος (smarágdinos, `{{G4664}}`) in [[Revelation 4:3]] carries profound theological weight. It serves to emphasize the unparalleled glory, beauty, and transcendence of God. The emerald's rich green color, often associated with life, vitality, and renewal, when applied to the rainbow around God's throne, may symbolize the life-giving presence of God and the lushness of His eternal kingdom. Furthermore, the rainbow itself, being a sign of God's covenant with humanity, appearing as a precious emerald, reinforces the idea of God's unyielding faithfulness and the enduring value of His promises. It suggests that God's mercy and covenant are not merely abstract concepts but are as tangible, beautiful, and eternal as the most precious gem. The imagery underscores the ineffable nature of God, whose presence is so magnificent that it can only be described through the most exquisite and valuable earthly analogies, yet even these fall short of capturing His full splendor. It evokes awe, worship, and a profound sense of the divine.
### Summary
The Greek adjective σμαράγδινος (smarágdinos, `{{G4664}}`) means "emerald-like" or "consisting of emerald." Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Revelation 4:3]] is highly significant, describing the rainbow encircling God's throne as having the appearance of an emerald. This vivid imagery contributes to the awe-inspiring depiction of God's divine glory, majesty, and transcendence. The emerald's vibrant green hue, combined with the symbolism of the rainbow as a sign of covenant, conveys themes of divine faithfulness, life, and the preciousness of God's promises. While appearing only once, σμαράγδινος powerfully enriches the visionary landscape of Revelation, inviting profound reverence and worship for the incomparable splendor of the Almighty.
TRV