The Hebrew word piṭdâh, represented by H6357, is a term of foreign derivation for a gem, probably the topaz. It is a rare word, appearing only 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. Its usage consistently points to a stone of significant value and beauty, chosen for settings of divine importance.
In its scriptural occurrences, H6357 is featured in contexts of immense value and sacredness. It is listed as one of the precious stones H68 that formed the covering of a created being in Eden H5731, the garden H1588 of God H430 Ezekiel 28:13. It is also specifically mandated as the second stone in the first H259 row H2905 of the high priest's breastplate, a detail recorded in both the instructions for its creation Exodus 28:17 and the account of its completion Exodus 39:10. Finally, in the book of Job, the topaz of Ethiopia H3568 is used as a standard of earthly wealth that cannot equal H6186 or be valued H5541 with the price of divine wisdom Job 28:19.
The significance of H6357 is further illuminated by the gems and places associated with it:
- H124 ʼôdem (sardius): Defined as a red gem, this stone is placed directly before the topaz in the first row H2905 of the priestly breastplate and in the covering in Eden (Exodus 28:17, Ezekiel 28:13).
- H1304 bâreqeth (carbuncle): This flashing gem is set immediately after the topaz in the same row H2905, forming a specific trio of stones in both the Exodus and Ezekiel accounts (Exodus 39:10, Ezekiel 28:13).
- H3568 Kûwsh (Ethiopia): The book of Job specifically mentions the "topaz of Ethiopia," linking the gem's reputation for value to a particular territory known for its precious resources Job 28:19.
- H3800 kethem (pure gold): In Job's discourse on wisdom, both the topaz of Ethiopia and pure gold are presented as benchmarks of supreme material value, yet both fall short of being comparable to wisdom Job 28:19.
The theological weight of H6357 is centered on its role as a symbol of value and divine appointment.
- Created Perfection: Its placement as a covering stone on a being in Eden H5731 highlights its association with original, God-ordained beauty and perfection, prepared H3559 on the very day H3117 of creation Ezekiel 28:13.
- Sacred Representation: As one of the twelve gems set H4390 in the high priest's breastplate, the topaz represents part of the sacred connection between God and His people, adorning the instrument of judgment before the Lord Exodus 28:17.
- The Incomparable Worth of Wisdom: The topaz is invoked to establish the highest standard of material value, only to demonstrate that the value of God's wisdom transcends even the most precious H3368 things of the earth Job 28:19.
In summary, piṭdâh H6357 is more than a simple reference to a gemstone. Though used sparingly, it consistently functions as a marker of sacred beauty, priestly honor, and the highest measure of earthly value. From the perfect adornment in the garden of God H430 to the breastplate of Israel's high priest, the topaz signifies a value appointed and recognized by the divine, while simultaneously teaching that spiritual wisdom remains infinitely more precious.
TRV