σαρδόνυξ (sardonux)
sardonux
sardonyx
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun sardonux refers to sardonyx, a precious gemstone characterized by alternating layers of red sard and white onyx. In the New Testament, this word appears only once, in Revelation 21:20, where it is listed as one of the foundational materials of the New Jerusalem.
Its etymology combines the terms for sard and onyx, reflecting the stone’s distinctive banded appearance. This single usage places the gem among the twelve precious stones adorning the city’s foundations, symbolizing beauty and permanence in the final restoration of creation.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The New Jerusalem is described as a place of enduring beauty, where every detail reflects God’s care for His people. Among the twelve foundations are precious stones like sardonyx, a gem with alternating bands of red and white. This stone, mentioned only once in Scripture, reminds us that God values both strength and gentleness, just as the layers of the gem combine to create something unique and lasting.
For your life today, this image offers hope. Even when circumstances feel divided or uncertain, God can weave together different experiences into a testimony of His faithfulness. The permanence of these stones points to the stability found in Christ, who remains constant through every season. You are invited to trust that He is building something eternal within you, blending your joys and struggles into a picture of grace.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- sardonyx,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- σαρδόνυξ,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 sardonyx as the fifth foundation stone, highlighting its specific place in the symbolic architecture of the New Jerusalem.