σμάραγδος (smaragdos)
smaragdos
emerald
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun smaragdos refers to an emerald or a transparent green gemstone. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Revelation 21:19, where John describes the foundations of the New Jerusalem’s wall as being adorned with various precious stones.
This listing places the emerald among other valuable minerals like jasper, sapphire, and garnet, highlighting its status as a symbol of beauty and divine craftsmanship. The word likely derives from a Greek term for green stone, reflecting its vivid color which was prized in ancient jewelry and architectural decoration.
While the exact mineralogical identification can vary in ancient texts, the consistent association with transparency and green hues underscores its role as a marker of glory and perfection in John’s vision of the holy city.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The emerald appears in John’s vision of the New Jerusalem as the fourth foundation stone of the city wall. This placement highlights its enduring beauty and strength. In ancient times, emeralds were prized for their vivid green color and durability. Their inclusion suggests that God’s kingdom is built with materials of lasting value and brilliance.
For your faith, this image offers comfort. The holy city is not made of fragile things but of precious stones that withstand time. You can trust that the foundation of your hope is secure. Just as these gems reflect light, your life in Christ reflects His glory. This promise encourages you to stand firm, knowing that what is built by God endures forever.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- emerald,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- σμάραγδος,1×
Key Verses
-
Revelation of John 21:19
The foundations of the city’s wall were adorned with all kinds of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald,
The emerald is listed as the fourth foundation stone, showing its specific role in the ordered beauty of the New Jerusalem's wall.