### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kadkôd**, represented by `{{H3539}}`, refers to a **sparkling gem**, identified as an **agate** or possibly a ruby. Its name is derived from a term suggesting the striking of fire, implying a brilliant or fiery quality. This word appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, used in contexts of great value and divine beautification.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3539}}` is used to describe a precious commodity. In Ezekiel's prophecy against Tyre, **agate** is listed among the luxurious wares that Syria{H758} brought to Tyre's fairs{H5801}, alongside other valuable items like emeralds{H5306} and purple{H713} [[Ezekiel 27:16]]. This verse places it in the context of international trade and material wealth. In contrast, Isaiah uses the term metaphorically to describe God's future restoration of Zion, promising to make{H7760} its windows{H8121} of **agates** [[Isaiah 54:12]]. This illustrates a shift from a worldly treasure to a component of divine, glorious construction.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the contexts in which **kadkôd** is found:
* `{{H1366}}` **gᵉbûwl** (border, bound): This term is used in Isaiah's prophecy to describe the new **borders** of Zion, which will be made of pleasant stones, establishing a secure and divinely marked territory [[Isaiah 54:12]].
* `{{H2656}}` **chêphets** (pleasure, pleasant): This word qualifies the stones used for the borders in [[Isaiah 54:12]], indicating they are not just any stones, but **pleasant** ones, reflecting God's desire and delight in His restored people.
* `{{H5801}}` **ʻizzâbôwn** (fair, ware): Appearing in the Ezekiel passage, this term denotes the marketplace or trade goods. The agate is listed as one of the items occupied in Tyre's **fairs**, highlighting its value as a commercial product [[Ezekiel 27:16]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H3539}}` carries significant conceptual weight, contrasting worldly value with divine purpose.
* **Symbol of Worldly Splendor:** As a trade good in Ezekiel, **kadkôd** represents the pinnacle of material wealth and commercial enterprise among nations [[Ezekiel 27:16]]. It is a measure of human-sought luxury and earthly glory.
* **Emblem of Divine Restoration:** In Isaiah, God appropriates this symbol of value for His own creative purpose. By making Zion's windows of **agates**, He demonstrates that the ultimate beauty and security of His people are established by Him, using materials that signify immense worth [[Isaiah 54:12]].
* **Transformation of Value:** The dual usage illustrates a powerful theme of transformation. A gem traded in earthly markets becomes a component of a divinely built city, suggesting that what the world values for commerce, God values for the glory and beautification of His kingdom.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3539}}` **kadkôd** is a rare term for a sparkling gem, likely an agate. Though appearing only twice, its usage provides a striking contrast between its role as a luxury item in worldly trade and its metaphorical function as a building material in God's glorious restoration of Zion. The word illustrates how an object of earthly value can be re-envisioned to represent divine beauty, security, and eternal worth.
TRV