τοπάζιον (topazion)
topazion
topaz
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun topazion refers to the precious stone known as topaz, described in ancient sources as a greenish-yellow gem that modern mineralogy often identifies with chrysolite or peridot. This word appears only once in the New Testament, in Revelation 21:20, where it lists one of the twelve foundations of the New Jerusalem.
Its presence connects the Christian vision to the Old Testament tradition of sacred jewelry. The Septuagint uses this same Greek term to translate Hebrew words for topaz in passages describing the high priest’s breastplate (Exodus 28:17) and Ezekiel’s poetic depiction of Eden’s perfection (Ezekiel 28:13). By including it among the city’s foundations, the text evokes a sense of enduring value and divine beauty.
Though rare in Scripture, the word anchors the apocalyptic imagery in tangible reality. It reminds readers that the heavenly city is not an abstract concept but a place constructed with materials of immense worth, reflecting the glory attributed to God throughout biblical history.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The vision of the New Jerusalem in Revelation is rich with imagery of precious stones, and topaz stands as one of the twelve foundations. This specific gemstone connects our current hope to ancient traditions of sacred beauty. In the Old Testament, topaz appeared on the high priest’s breastplate and in descriptions of Eden’s perfection. Its inclusion here signals that God’s final dwelling place is built with materials of enduring value and divine glory.
For your faith, this detail offers comfort. The heavenly city is not an abstract concept but a tangible reality constructed with immense worth. It reflects the care God takes in preparing a home for His people. When you read about these stones, remember that they point to the stability and beauty of God’s promises. They remind us that what is eternal is real and precious.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- topaz,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- τοπάζιον,1×
Key Verses
-
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 topaz as the ninth foundation stone, anchoring the apocalyptic vision in tangible, valuable materials.