אַחְלָמָה
a gem, probably the amethyst
Definition
אַחְלָמָה refers to a precious gemstone, most likely the amethyst, a purple or violet variety of quartz. It was one of the twelve stones set in the high priest's breastplate (Exodus 28:19, 39:12), representing one of the tribes of Israel. The term is used exclusively in these two passages describing the priestly garments, indicating its specific ceremonial and symbolic function. While the exact identification is debated, ancient sources and the etymology strongly support it being the amethyst.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only twice in the Old Testament, both in the book of Exodus in identical contexts. It describes the twelfth stone in the third row of the high priest's breastplate (Exodus 28:19, 39:12). Its usage is purely descriptive within the detailed instructions for crafting the sacred vestments, showing it was a valued material for Israel's worship.
Etymology
The word אַחְלָמָה likely derives from the root חָלַם (ḥālam, H2492), meaning 'to dream.' Thus, it is often called the 'dream stone.' This connection may stem from a belief in the amethyst's supposed power to induce dreams or protect against drunkenness (the Greek 'amethystos' means 'not intoxicated'). The Hebrew name reflects ancient cultural associations between gems and perceived mystical properties.
Semantic Range
As one of the breastplate stones, the אַחְלָמָה represents the tribe of Israel it was assigned to, embodying the people's presence before God during priestly mediation. Its inclusion highlights God's order, beauty, and value placed on His covenant community. Understanding this specific gem enriches the symbolism of the priestly garments, pointing to Christ, our perfect High Priest who bears His people before the Father.
In the ancient Near East, specific gemstones were highly valued for beauty, rarity, and often attributed magical or protective qualities. The amethyst was prized in Egypt and Mesopotamia. Its placement on the high priest's breastplate signified honor, tribal identity, and possibly carried connotations of royalty or divine favor, integrating common cultural value into Israel's unique worship system.
אֹדֶם (ʼōdem, H124) — a red gem (carnelian/sardius), the first breastplate stone. יָהֲלֹם (yāhălōm, H3095) — a different gem (likely jasper), also on the breastplate.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
Full methodology & sources →