### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H8658}}` (tarshîysh) refers to a specific type of precious gemstone. While its precise identification remains a subject of scholarly debate, it is commonly understood to denote either a topaz or a beryl. The base definition suggests a foreign derivation, notably drawing a comparison to `{{H8659}}`, the place name Tarshish. This connection implies that the gem might have been named after its place of origin, a significant trading center, or a region known for its mineral wealth. The semantic range thus encompasses a valuable, often translucent or brightly colored, stone, whose exact hue and composition are not definitively known but are associated with beauty, purity, and splendor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The gemstone `{{H8658}}` appears in several significant biblical contexts, each contributing to our understanding of its perceived qualities:
* **Priestly Breastplate:** In [[Exodus 28:20]] and [[Exodus 39:13]], tarshîysh is listed as the tenth stone in the high priest's breastplate, set in the fourth row. Each stone represented one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Its inclusion in this sacred garment underscores its value and its role in the divinely ordained worship of God. The meticulous detail in the instructions for the breastplate highlights the importance of using precious and beautiful materials in service to the Lord.
* **Visions of Divine Glory:** The term is used metaphorically in the prophetic books to describe elements of divine or angelic appearance. In [[Ezekiel 1:16]] and [[Ezekiel 10:9]], the wheels of the cherubim's chariot-throne are described as having the "color of a tarshish stone." This imagery evokes a sense of brilliant, perhaps translucent or fiery, splendor, contributing to the awe-inspiring nature of God's presence. Similarly, in [[Daniel 10:6]], the body of the angelic being appearing to Daniel is described as being "like beryl" (tarshish), again conveying a sense of radiant purity and celestial majesty.
* **Poetic Description:** In [[Song of Solomon 5:14]], tarshîysh is used in a poetic description of the beloved's hands, likened to "rods of gold set with beryl." Here, the gem serves as an emblem of beauty, preciousness, and exquisite craftsmanship, contributing to the overall aesthetic appreciation within the love poem.
Across these contexts, tarshîysh consistently denotes a stone of significant value, often associated with brilliance, purity, and a striking appearance, whether in sacred artifacts, divine manifestations, or human beauty.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of `{{H8658}}` naturally connects to several broader biblical themes and lexical fields:
* **Other Gemstones:** Tarshîysh is frequently mentioned alongside other precious stones such as `{{H7718}}` (sapphire), `{{H3900}}` (emerald), `{{H3471}}` (jasper), and `{{H7895}}` (onyx), particularly in the context of the high priest's breastplate. This places it within the broader category of valuable minerals used for adornment and sacred purposes.
* **Priestly Garments:** The breastplate itself is a profound symbol of God's covenant with Israel and the high priest's mediatorial role. The inclusion of tarshîysh contributes to the overall symbolism of the twelve tribes being borne before the Lord.
* **Theophany and Divine Majesty:** Its use in Ezekiel and Daniel links tarshîysh to the imagery of God's glory, the heavenly realm, and the awe-inspiring appearance of divine beings. It is part of the rich tapestry of descriptions that attempt to convey the ineffable splendor of the divine.
* **The Place Tarshish (`{{H8659}}`):** The explicit comparison in the Strong's definition to the geographical location "Tarshish" is crucial. This ancient city (or region), often associated with distant trade and immense wealth (e.g., [[1 Kings 10:22]], [[Jonah 1:3]]), suggests a potential origin for the gem or its name, emphasizing its exotic and highly valued nature as a commodity brought from afar.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8658}}` stems from its varied biblical applications:
* **Covenant and Representation:** On the high priest's breastplate, tarshîysh represents one of the twelve tribes of Israel, signifying God's enduring covenant relationship with His people. It underscores the priest's role in bearing the tribes before God, an act of intercession and remembrance. The beauty and preciousness of the stone reflect the value God places on His chosen people.
* **Divine Purity and Glory:** In the visionary accounts of Ezekiel and Daniel, tarshîysh contributes to the portrayal of God's transcendent majesty and the purity of His heavenly realm. The stone's suggested brilliance and clarity serve as a metaphor for the unblemished holiness and radiant glory of God and His celestial attendants. It evokes a sense of awe and reverence in the presence of the divine.
* **Beauty in Worship:** The use of tarshîysh in the sacred garments highlights God's command for excellence and beauty in worship. It demonstrates that the finest materials were to be consecrated for His service, reflecting the inherent beauty and perfection of the Creator Himself.
* **Symbol of Perfection:** Whether describing a physical object, a divine vision, or human beauty, tarshîysh consistently points to a standard of excellence, purity, and aesthetic perfection, aligning with the biblical emphasis on God's perfect creation and His desire for holiness in His people.
### Summary
The Hebrew term `{{H8658}}` (tarshîysh) denotes a precious gemstone, likely a topaz or beryl, whose name may be linked to the renowned trading center of Tarshish (`{{H8659}}`). Its biblical occurrences reveal its multifaceted significance: as one of the twelve stones on the high priest's breastplate, symbolizing the tribes of Israel and God's covenant; as a descriptive element in visions of divine glory and angelic beings in Ezekiel and Daniel, conveying purity, brilliance, and majesty; and as a poetic symbol of beauty and value in the Song of Solomon. Theologically, tarshîysh contributes to themes of covenant representation, divine splendor, the holiness of God, and the importance of beauty and excellence in worship, reflecting the inherent perfection of the Creator.
TRV