יַהֲלֹם (ya.ha.lom)
ya.ha.lom
jasper
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun yaḥalom refers to a precious stone noted for its exceptional hardness. Lexical sources suggest it likely denotes jasper, though some scholars propose onyx or even diamond based on its physical properties. The term appears in only two verses of the Old Testament, both located in the book of Exodus.
In these passages, yaḥalom is listed among the gemstones set into the high priest’s ephod (Exodus 28:18; 39:11). Its inclusion highlights the value and beauty assigned to the priestly garments. The etymology may relate to a root meaning "to strike" or "smite," reflecting the stone's durability and ability to withstand force, which distinguishes it from softer gems.
Translators often render yaḥalom as jasper, emphasizing its role in the sacred vestments rather than attempting to identify the exact mineral species with certainty. The focus remains on its symbolic presence within the priestly service, representing the order and glory of Israel’s worship system.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word yaḥalom describes a stone of remarkable hardness, traditionally identified as jasper. In the Old Testament, it appears only twice, both times within the detailed instructions for the high priest’s ephod in Exodus. These precious stones were not merely decorative; they represented the order and glory of Israel’s worship system.
When we consider the durability of this gem, it offers a quiet picture of steadfastness. The high priest wore these stones upon his heart as he stood before God. This imagery reminds us that our spiritual life is built on something enduring, not fleeting. Just as the stone withstood force, faith finds its strength in what remains constant.
Reflecting on such details in Scripture helps us appreciate the care God took in establishing His presence among His people. It invites us to value the sacredness of our own walk with Him, trusting in a foundation that does not easily break.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ an emerald2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/יָהֲלֹֽם\׃2×
Key Verses
-
Exodus 28:18
and the second row a turquoise, a sapphire, and an emerald;
This verse places yaḥalom as the second stone in the priestly breastplate, linking it to the tribe represented by that position.
-
Exodus 39:11
and the second row, a turquoise, a sapphire, and an emerald;
Here the word confirms the actual execution of the garment, showing the stone was included exactly as commanded for the high priest's service.