אַחְלָ֑מָה (ach.la.mah)
ach.la.mah
amethyst
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun achlamah refers to a gemstone set in the third row of the high priest’s breastplate, as described in Exodus 28:19 and 39:11. Its precise identification remains uncertain among scholars, though it is widely understood to be amethyst or another purple-hued stone such as corundum or jasper.
The word appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, both times within the detailed instructions for the priestly garments. It likely derives from a foreign source, reflecting the international trade networks that supplied precious materials for the Tabernacle. This rarity underscores its value and the significance of the high priest’s role as a representative before God.
Translators generally render achlamah as "amethyst," preserving the traditional association with purple stones known in the ancient Near East. The inclusion of this gem among the twelve tribes’ symbols highlights the beauty and diversity of Israel’s heritage, each stone representing a distinct family within the covenant community.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word achlamah appears in only two places within Scripture, both describing the sacred garments worn by the high priest. This rare gemstone, likely amethyst or a similar purple stone, was set into the breastplate alongside eleven others. Each stone represented one of the tribes of Israel, creating a tangible symbol of unity and diversity within the covenant community.
When you read about this jewelry, it is easy to focus on its beauty or historical rarity. Yet the deeper meaning lies in who wore it. The high priest carried the names of all twelve tribes over his heart when he entered God’s presence. This act reminds us that our differences do not divide us from God; instead, they are woven together into a single offering.
For your faith today, this image offers comfort. You are part of a larger story that includes people from every background and tribe. Just as these stones were precious to the priest’s role, you are valued individually within the body of believers. This heritage invites you to see your unique place in God’s family with pride and peace.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ an amethyst2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/אַחְלָֽמָה\׃2×
Key Verses
-
Exodus 28:19
and the third row a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst;
This verse establishes the specific order of the third row on the breastplate, placing achlamah alongside jacinth and agate as part of the official priestly attire.
-
Exodus 39:12
and the third row, a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst;
Here the text confirms the actual execution of those instructions, showing that the high priest’s garment was crafted exactly as commanded for his representative role.