What does Revelation 21:19 mean?

And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald; Revelation 21:19

Explanation

Revelation 21:19 describes a vision of the New Jerusalem, a representation of the perfection and glory of the city of God as revealed to the apostle John. This verse in particular provides vivid imagery, describing the foundations of the walls of the city and their adornment with precious stones. It suggests not just a literal beauty, but a deeper symbol of the city’s divine nature and its immeasurable value. Each stone also might have symbolic meaning, possibly representing the tribes of Israel or the apostles. The foundations signify strength and stability, while the variety and beauty of the stones reflect the diversity and splendor of God’s creation.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation, also known as the Apocalypse, was written by the apostle John while he was in exile on the Island of Patmos, around A.D. 95-96. It is a prophetic book that includes visions of the end times and the coming of God’s kingdom. The culture of the time was under Roman rule, which often persecuted Christians. The imagery of precious stones would have been familiar to John’s contemporaries as such stones were representative of wealth and power, but John uses this imagery to describe the transcendent beauty and worth of the heavenly city.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse highlights the concept of New Jerusalem as a place of divine majesty and purity. In Christian eschatology, it is considered the fulfillment of God’s promise, a place without sin or suffering. By using various precious stones, theologians suggest that John’s vision could represent the inclusiveness of God’s salvation, extending to all tribes and nations. Additionally, some view the stones as a symbol of the twelve apostles, the foundation upon which the early church was built, with Christ as the cornerstone.

Practical Applications

In daily life, the teachings of this verse can inspire believers to appreciate the grandeur and diversity of God’s creation and to pursue the things that are of lasting value. It serves as a reminder to build one’s life on a foundation that is steadfast and precious, akin to the foundations of New Jerusalem. Moreover, it can motivate Christians to seek the beauty in diversity, valuing every individual as an integral part of the greater community.

Cross-References

• Revelation 21:14: “And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.”
• Isaiah 54:11-12: “O thou afflicted, tossed with tempest, and not comforted, behold, I will lay thy stones with fair colours, and lay thy foundations with sapphires.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text:

• “Jasper” (ιάσπις, iaspis): A precious stone, which Revelation 4:3 also describes as being clear as crystal.
• “Sapphire” (σάπφειρος, sappheiros): Likely the modern sapphire, a blue stone signifying truth and consistency.
• “Chalcedony” (χαλκηδών, chalkēdōn): A stone of misty gray color, often used in seals and amulets.
• “Emerald” (σμάραγδος, smaragdos): A bright green stone, symbolizing virtue and new life.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient cultures, precious stones were often associated with deities or spiritual significance. For instance, in Egyptian mythology, gems adorned the breastplates of the gods. In Greco-Roman culture, gemstones carried symbolic meanings and were used in a variety of religious contexts. Comparatively, the use of gemstones in Revelation creates a parallel with the idea that the divine realm is of unparalleled beauty and value.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific point of view, the precious stones mentioned in this verse are minerals formed under specific conditions of pressure and temperature in the Earth’s crust. Their inclusion in the biblical text shows an appreciation for the natural world’s beauty and complexity. The vision of a city adorned with such gems could be seen as acknowledging the union of the divine design and the wonders of the physical universe.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars and commentators have explored the symbolism and implications of Revelation 21:19. Some, like Matthew Henry, see the stones as representing the glory and excellence of the church. Others, such as John Gill, have attempted to link each stone to particular attributes or historical figures within Christianity. Many agree that while there is a literal aspect to the beauty of these stones, the primary purpose is allegorical, pointing to the diverse and multifaceted nature of the body of believers and the eternal inheritance stored for them in heaven.