χρυσόλιθος

a topaz

Definition

χρυσόλιθος (chrysolithos) refers to a precious stone, most commonly identified as a topaz, known for its bright yellow or golden color. In the ancient world, the term could describe various yellow-hued gemstones, not always corresponding precisely to the modern mineralogical definition of topaz. Its sole biblical appearance is in Revelation 21:20, where it is listed as the seventh foundation stone of the New Jerusalem's wall. This placement among other foundation stones highlights its value and symbolic role within the vision of the heavenly city.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Revelation 21:20. It appears in a highly symbolic context as part of the description of the New Jerusalem's foundations, which are adorned with twelve different precious stones. There is no narrative or discursive usage; its function is entirely descriptive within John's apocalyptic vision of the perfected, glorious city of God.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words χρυσός (chrysos, G5557), meaning 'gold,' and λίθος (lithos, G3037), meaning 'stone.' Thus, it literally means 'gold-stone,' a name that directly describes its characteristic golden-yellow appearance. This compound formation is typical for naming gemstones in Greek based on their color or perceived resemblance.

Semantic Range

As one of the foundation stones of the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:20), χρυσόλιθος contributes to the symbolic portrayal of the church's eternal, glorious, and unshakable foundation in God's redemptive plan. The splendor and variety of the gemstones, including this 'gold-stone,' reflect the surpassing beauty, purity, and priceless value of God's perfected kingdom and the people who constitute it. Understanding its literal meaning ('gold-stone') enriches the imagery, connecting the foundation's brilliance directly to concepts of divine glory and incorruptible worth.

In the ancient Mediterranean and Near Eastern world, precious stones like the χρυσόλιθος were highly valued for their beauty, rarity, and often ascribed protective or symbolic powers. Lists of gemstones were commonly used in literature to convey supreme value, cosmic order, and divine craftsmanship. The specific identification of 'chrysolithos' with the modern topaz is not certain, as ancient gem names were often based on color rather than precise mineralogy, and could refer to other yellow stones like citrine or yellow sapphire.

σάπφειρος (sappheiros, G4552) — A blue stone (lapis lazuli or sapphire), also a foundation stone in Revelation 21:20, differing in color and symbolism. σμάραγδος (smaragdos, G4665) — A bright green stone (emerald), another foundation stone, contrasting in its green hue. ἴασπις (iaspis, G2393) — A green or possibly clear stone (jasper), the first foundation stone and used to describe God's appearance in Revelation 4:3.

Word Details

Scripture References