ἀμέθυστος (amethustos)
amethustos
amethyst
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun amethustos refers to the amethyst, a purple quartz prized in antiquity for its violet hue. The word literally means "un-wine," derived from a negative prefix and a root related to intoxication. Ancient tradition held that this stone served as an antidote against drunkenness, a belief reflected in its very name.
In Scripture, this gem appears only once, listed among the twelve foundations of the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21:20. Its inclusion connects the heavenly city to the high priest’s breastplate described in Exodus and Ezekiel, where amethyst also features. This single usage highlights the stone’s symbolic value as a marker of divine beauty and purity within the apocalyptic vision.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word amethustos describes a stone with a deep violet hue, literally meaning "un-wine." In ancient times, people believed this gem could protect against intoxication, linking it to clarity and self-control. While it appears only once in the New Testament, its presence is significant. It stands as one of the twelve foundation stones of the New Jerusalem, described in Revelation 21:20.
This single mention connects the heavenly city to the high priest’s breastplate in the Old Testament, where similar gems represented the tribes of Israel. For your faith, this suggests that God’s eternal home is built on beauty and order. The amethyst reminds us that divine reality is not chaotic but crafted with care. It points to a peace that remains steady, much like the stone’s name implies freedom from confusion.
When you read about the New Jerusalem, remember that every detail reflects God’s glory. The inclusion of such precious materials shows that heaven is a place of immense value and holiness. This vision offers hope that our current struggles are temporary, while God’s ultimate dwelling is eternal and perfect.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- amethyst.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀμέθυστος.1×
Key Verses
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Revelation of John 21:20
the fifth sardonyx, the sixth sardius, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst.
This verse lists the amethyst as the twelfth foundation stone, linking the heavenly city to the priestly garments of the Old Testament.