תַּרְשִׁישׁ

a gem, perhaps the topaz

Definition

The Hebrew word תַּרְשִׁישׁ (tarshîysh) refers to a precious stone, likely a yellow or green gem. In the priestly garments (Exodus 28:20, 39:13) and the description of the king of Tyre's splendor (Ezekiel 28:13), it is listed among other jewels, indicating its high value and beauty. In poetic contexts like Song of Solomon 5:14, it describes the brilliance of the beloved's appearance, while in visionary passages (Ezekiel 1:16, 10:9; Daniel 10:6), it is used to depict the dazzling, supernatural quality of heavenly beings or wheels.

Biblical Usage

תַּרְשִׁישׁ appears seven times in the Old Testament, primarily in descriptive lists of precious stones. It is used in the construction of the high priest's breastplate (Exodus 28:20), in poetic imagery for beauty (Song of Solomon 5:14), and in prophetic visions to convey divine radiance, such as in Ezekiel's vision of God's throne-chariot (Ezekiel 1:16) and Daniel's encounter with a heavenly messenger (Daniel 10:6). Its usage spans Torah, Poetry, and Prophets, consistently associated with splendor and holiness.

Etymology

The word is probably of foreign origin, possibly derived from a place name Tarshish, known for valuable trade goods (compare H8659). This suggests the gem was imported, linking it to distant, exotic sources. The exact mineral it refers to remains uncertain, with translations varying (e.g., beryl, topaz, chrysolite), reflecting its ancient, non-Hebrew roots.

Semantic Range

תַּרְשִׁישׁ carries theological significance as a symbol of God's holiness and the beauty of His presence. In the priestly garments, it represents Israel's set-apart status before God. In prophetic visions, its brilliance points to the transcendent glory of the divine realm, enriching readings of passages about God's majesty and the radiance of His messengers.

In the ancient Near East, precious stones like תַּרְשִׁישׁ were highly valued for trade, adornment, and religious symbolism, often believed to have protective or sacred qualities. Its inclusion in the high priest's breastplate connected it to Israel's worship, while its association with Tyre (Ezekiel 28:13) reflects its role in international luxury commerce, differing from modern gem classifications.

אֹדֶם (ʼôdem, H124) — a red gem (e.g., ruby/carnelian), differing in color. יָהֲלֹם (yâhălôm, H3095) — a hard gem (e.g., diamond/jasper), often for engraving. שֹׁהַם (shôham, H7718) — a gem (e.g., onyx), commonly used in priestly settings.

Word Details

Scripture References