### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yâshᵉphêh**, represented by `{{H3471}}`, is a gem identified as **jasper**. Derived from an unused root that means "to polish," this word appears only **3 times** across 3 unique verses in the Bible. It consistently denotes a precious stone used for significant adornment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{H3471}}` is featured in two primary contexts. It is listed as the final stone in the **fourth** `{{H7243}}` **row** `{{H2905}}` of the high priest's breastplate, alongside a **beryl** `{{H8658}}` and an **onyx** `{{H7718}}`. These stones were to be **set** `{{H7660}}` in **gold** `{{H2091}}` within their **inclosings** `{{H4396}}` ([[Exodus 28:20]], [[Exodus 39:13]]). It is also named among the "every **precious** `{{H3368}}` **stone** `{{H68}}`" that formed the covering of a being in **Eden** `{{H5731}}`, the **garden** `{{H1588}}` of **God** `{{H430}}` [[Ezekiel 28:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and significance of the **jasper**:
* `{{H8658}}` **tarshîysh** (beryl): Defined as "a gem, perhaps the topaz," this stone is mentioned immediately before jasper in all three of its appearances ([[Exodus 28:20]], [[Exodus 39:13]], [[Ezekiel 28:13]]).
* `{{H7718}}` **shôham** (onyx): This gem, "probably the beryl," also appears alongside jasper in the **fourth** `{{H7243}}` **row** `{{H2905}}` of the breastplate and in the covering described in Ezekiel ([[Exodus 28:20]], [[Exodus 39:13]], [[Ezekiel 28:13]]).
* `{{H2905}}` **ṭûwr** (row): This word, meaning "a row; hence, a wall," establishes the organized, structured placement of the jasper and other gems on the breastplate ([[Exodus 28:20]], [[Exodus 39:13]]).
* `{{H4396}}` **milluʼâh** (inclosings): Meaning "a filling, i.e. setting (of gems)," this term describes the method by which the jasper was fastened in **gold** `{{H2091}}` ([[Exodus 28:20]], [[Exodus 39:13]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3471}}` is tied to its placement in divinely ordained settings.
* **Priestly Adornment:** As a stone on the high priest's breastplate, the jasper was part of the holy garments representing the tribes of Israel before God. It was placed in the **fourth** `{{H7243}}` **row** `{{H2905}}` and **inclosed** `{{H4142}}` in **ouches** `{{H4865}}` of **gold** `{{H2091}}` [[Exodus 39:13]].
* **Heavenly Splendor:** Its inclusion as one of the **precious** `{{H3368}}` stones in **Eden** `{{H5731}}`, the **garden** `{{H1588}}` of **God** `{{H430}}`, links it to themes of primordial perfection, divine beauty, and celestial honor [[Ezekiel 28:13]].
* **Divine Order:** In both the breastplate and the covering in Eden, the jasper is part of a specific, ordered collection of gems, highlighting God's attention to detail and the value He places on beauty and craftsmanship.
### Summary
In summary, **yâshᵉphêh** `{{H3471}}` is a rare but significant term for the **jasper**. Though mentioned only three times, its use in the high priest's breastplate and in the description of a magnificent being in God's garden establishes it as a symbol of holiness, divine craftsmanship, and the exquisite beauty associated with God's presence and design.
TRV