כַּדְכֹּד (kad.kod)
kad.kod
ruby
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew word kôd refers to a precious stone, often identified as ruby or agate. It appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, within Isaiah’s poetic description of Jerusalem’s future restoration. In this context, the city’s walls are said to be built with kôd, symbolizing immense value and enduring beauty.
Lexical sources note that the exact identity of the stone remains uncertain, with suggestions ranging from ruby to agate. This ambiguity reflects the challenges of translating ancient mineral names into modern categories. Regardless of its precise geological classification, the term consistently conveys worth and splendor in its single scriptural occurrence.
The word’s rarity underscores the intentional use of rare materials in biblical imagery. By associating Jerusalem’s foundations with such a gem, the text emphasizes God’s commitment to honoring His people. The choice of kôd over more common stones highlights the extraordinary nature of the promised renewal.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Isaiah uses the word kôd to describe the future restoration of Jerusalem, painting a picture of a city built with immense value and enduring beauty. Though we cannot be certain exactly which gemstone this refers to today, the text clearly points to something rare and precious. This imagery reminds us that God’s plans for His people are not ordinary; they are marked by splendor and intentional care.
When you read about walls made of such stones, it is easy to feel distant from an ancient prophecy. Yet the heart of the message is relational. God is committed to honoring those who belong to Him. The rarity of the stone highlights the extraordinary nature of His promise. You are part of a story where worth is not measured by common standards but by divine intention.
This single word invites you to rest in the certainty of God’s renewal. Just as the city is rebuilt with precious materials, your life is being shaped with purpose. The hope here is not just for a place, but for a people who are valued beyond measure. Let this image encourage you that what God builds lasts.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- ruby1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- כַּֽדְכֹד֙1×
Key Verses
-
Isaiah 54:12
I will make your pinnacles of rubies, your gates of sparkling jewels, and all your walls of precious stones.
This verse uses the word to symbolize the immense value and enduring beauty of Jerusalem’s restored walls, emphasizing God’s commitment to honoring His people.