### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G5555 chrysólithos is a compound term derived from `{{G5553}}` (chrysos), meaning "gold," and `{{G3037}}` (lithos), meaning "stone." Literally, it translates to "gold-stone." This etymology directly points to its primary meaning: a precious stone characterized by a golden or yellowish hue. In ancient contexts, the term "chrysolite" could encompass various yellowish-green minerals, including peridot (a variety of olivine), topaz, or even certain forms of beryl, depending on the specific period and geographical region. For the biblical text, it denotes a highly valued, radiant gem known for its distinct golden-yellow color, contributing to the overall splendor of the described object.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G5555 chrysólithos appears exclusively once in the New Testament, within the apocalyptic vision of the New Jerusalem:
* [[Revelation 21:20]]: "the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, topaz; the tenth, chrysoprase; the eleventh, jacinth; the twelfth, amethyst."
In this passage, chrysolite is listed as the seventh of the twelve foundation stones of the New Jerusalem. This detailed description of the city's foundations follows the depiction of its walls and gates, emphasizing its extraordinary beauty, preciousness, and divine origin. Each foundation stone is said to bear the name of one of the twelve apostles of the Lamb ([[Revelation 21:14]]), signifying the foundational truths of the gospel and the apostolic witness upon which the Church is built. The inclusion of chrysolite, with its golden luminescence, contributes to the overall imagery of light, glory, and divine presence that permeates the description of the heavenly city.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of G5555 chrysólithos is enriched by examining its constituent parts and related biblical themes:
* `{{G5553}}` (chrysos): "Gold." This word frequently appears in Scripture, symbolizing purity, divine glory, wealth, and enduring value. Its connection to chrysolite reinforces the idea of a stone possessing a golden radiance and intrinsic worth.
* `{{G3037}}` (lithos): "Stone." This foundational element often represents strength, stability, and preciousness in biblical imagery (e.g., cornerstone, living stones).
* **Other Precious Stones in Revelation:** The context of [[Revelation 21:19-20]] lists eleven other precious stones: jasper, sapphire, chalcedony, emerald, sardonyx, sardius, beryl, topaz, chrysoprase, jacinth, and amethyst. Collectively, these stones portray the unparalleled splendor, purity, and divine attributes of the New Jerusalem, symbolizing God's dwelling place with humanity.
* **Old Testament Precedents:** The concept of precious stones representing divine order and beauty is deeply rooted in the Old Testament. The breastplate of the High Priest (`{{H2833}}`, choshen) was adorned with twelve precious stones, each representing one of the tribes of Israel ([[Exodus 28:17-21]], [[Exodus 39:10-14]]). While the exact identification of all ancient stones is debated, this tradition establishes a theological precedent for using precious gems to signify divine presence, covenant, and the people of God.
### Theological Significance
The inclusion of G5555 chrysólithos as a foundation stone of the New Jerusalem carries profound theological weight:
* **Divine Glory and Beauty:** The chrysolite, with its golden hue, contributes to the depiction of the New Jerusalem as a place of unimaginable glory and beauty. This splendor reflects the very nature of God, who is light and glory, and underscores the preciousness of His eternal dwelling with His redeemed people.
* **Purity and Sanctity:** The golden color of chrysolite evokes associations with gold, a metal often symbolizing purity and divine essence in Scripture. The New Jerusalem is a place of absolute purity, where all defilement and sin have been eradicated, reflecting the sanctified state of those who dwell there.
* **Foundational Truths:** As one of the twelve foundation stones bearing the names of the apostles, the chrysolite symbolizes the enduring and precious nature of the apostolic witness and the foundational truths of the gospel upon which the Church is built. It speaks to the stability and divine origin of God's eternal kingdom.
* **God's Perfect Provision:** The meticulous description of the city's construction from the most precious materials highlights God's perfect and abundant provision for His people in the eternal state. Nothing is lacking; everything is of the highest quality, signifying the complete and unblemished perfection of the New Creation.
### Summary
The Greek word G5555 chrysólithos, meaning "gold-stone" or "chrysolite," refers to a precious yellow or golden-hued gemstone. Its sole biblical appearance is in [[Revelation 21:20]], where it is listed as the seventh foundation stone of the New Jerusalem. This placement within the description of the heavenly city's foundations is highly significant. Theologically, chrysólithos contributes to the imagery of the New Jerusalem's unparalleled divine glory, beauty, and purity. Its golden radiance aligns with biblical symbolism of light, wealth, and unblemished perfection, underscoring the preciousness of salvation and the solid, divine foundation of God's eternal dwelling place with humanity. It serves as a visual testament to God's ultimate provision and the consummate splendor of the eschatological reality.
TRV