ὑάκινθος

jacinth

Definition

The Greek word ὑάκινθος (yakinthos) refers to a precious stone known as 'jacinth' or 'hyacinth.' In the ancient world, this term described a gemstone typically of a blue or violet-blue color, though ancient sources sometimes associate it with a reddish or golden hue, indicating some variation in its identification. In the New Testament, it appears exclusively in Revelation 21:20, where it is listed as the eleventh foundation stone of the New Jerusalem. This usage aligns with the Septuagint (the Greek Old Testament), where similar stones are mentioned in priestly garments and temple descriptions, such as in Exodus 28:19 and 39:12.

Biblical Usage

ὑάκινθος is used only once in the New Testament, in Revelation 21:20, as part of the visionary description of the heavenly city's foundations. It follows the pattern of listing precious stones, drawing on Old Testament imagery of divine splendor and holiness, similar to the high priest's breastplate (Exodus 28:17-20) and prophetic visions like Ezekiel 28:13.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek ὑάκινθος (yakinthos), which originally referred to the hyacinth flower or a gemstone of similar color. The word is likely pre-Greek in origin, possibly borrowed from an earlier Mediterranean language. It passed into Latin as 'hyacinthus' and into English as 'jacinth' or 'hyacinth,' retaining its association with a blue-to-violet hue.

Semantic Range

In Revelation 21:20, ὑάκινθος symbolizes the eternal beauty, purity, and unshakable foundation of God's redeemed community. As part of the New Jerusalem's foundations, it reflects God's glory and the fulfillment of His covenant promises, echoing the priestly and temple imagery of the Old Testament. Understanding this Greek term enriches appreciation of the continuity between biblical covenants and the consummation of all things in Christ.

In the first-century Greco-Roman world, 'jacinth' was valued as a precious stone, often used in jewelry and decorative arts. Its exact identification varied; some ancient sources describe it as a blue zircon or sapphire, while others suggest a reddish-orange variety. This ambiguity highlights how gemstone classifications differed from modern mineralogy, with color often being the primary distinguishing feature.

σάπφειρος (sappheiros, G4552) — a blue precious stone, often lapis lazuli or sapphire. σμαράγδινος (smaragdinos, G4664) — emerald, a green gemstone. χρυσόλιθος (chrusolithos, G5555) — chrysolite, a golden-yellow gem.

Word Details

Scripture References