### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼeqdâch**, represented by `{{H688}}`, refers to a **carbuncle** or other "burning, i.e. a fiery gem". This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its single usage highly significant. It describes a precious stone known for its fiery, brilliant quality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H688}}` is in [[Isaiah 54:12]], within a prophecy of divine restoration. In this passage, God promises to rebuild a desolate and afflicted city with precious materials, stating, "And I will make thy windows of agates, and thy gates of **carbuncles**." The use of **ʼeqdâch** for the gates suggests not only immense value and beauty but also a structure that is radiant and seemingly alive with light, reflecting the glory of its divine architect. The word appears alongside `{{H68}}` **ʼeben** (stone), indicating these are "stones of carbuncles."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same verse enrich the meaning of this glorious restoration:
* `{{H3539}}` **kadkôd** (agate): This term, meaning "a sparkling gem, probably the ruby," is used to describe the windows of the restored city, appearing in parallel with the carbuncle gates [[Isaiah 54:12]].
* `{{H8179}}` **shaʻar** (gate): This is the specific structure to be made from **carbuncles**. Gates in scripture represent security and civic identity, and making them from a fiery gem elevates them to a symbol of divine glory and protection [[Isaiah 54:12]].
* `{{H68}}` **ʼeben** (stone): The word **ʼeqdâch** is used in conjunction with **ʼeben**, or **stone**, clarifying that this carbuncle is a precious gem. The promise is to build with valuable stones, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary [[Isaiah 54:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H688}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful appearance.
* **Promise of Glorious Transformation:** The carbuncle, a "fiery gem," is promised for the gates of a people who were once "afflicted, tossed with tempest, and not comforted" [[Isaiah 54:11]]. It symbolizes God's power to turn suffering into splendor and ruin into radiance.
* **Divine Workmanship:** God declares "I will make" `{{H7760}}` these gates of carbuncles, emphasizing that this glorious restoration is a direct, supernatural act of God's grace and creative power, not a human achievement [[Isaiah 54:12]].
* **Symbol of Incorruptible Beauty:** By using precious and durable gems like carbuncles for the city's gates and foundations, the prophecy points toward a future state of lasting security, purity, and divine beauty established by God himself.
### Summary
In summary, **ʼeqdâch** `{{H688}}` is a term whose significance is defined by its rarity. As a **carbuncle**, or "fiery gem," its singular mention in [[Isaiah 54:12]] provides a vivid and concentrated symbol of divine restoration. It illustrates God's promise to transform a state of affliction into one of unparalleled beauty and value, building a city whose very gates radiate with the light and glory of His workmanship.
TRV