אֶקְדָּח

אֶקְדָּח

burning, i.e. a carbuncle or other fiery gem

Definition

אֶקְדָּח refers to a fiery, glowing gemstone, specifically a 'carbuncle' or 'burning stone.' It describes a precious stone that appears to burn or glow with intense light, likely a deep red gem like a garnet or ruby. The word's single biblical occurrence is in Isaiah 54:12, where it is listed among the magnificent materials God will use to build the future Zion. In this prophetic vision, the carbuncle is part of the glorious foundation and pinnacles, symbolizing divine splendor and permanence.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Isaiah 54:12. It appears in a prophetic, poetic context describing the future restoration and glorious rebuilding of Jerusalem. The carbuncle is listed alongside other precious stones and materials (like sapphires, rubies, and crystal) to portray the unimaginable beauty and divine craftsmanship of God's promised city. Its usage is entirely symbolic and eschatological, contributing to a vision of ultimate peace and divine favor.

Etymology

Derived from the root קָדַח (qādach, H6916), meaning 'to kindle, burn, or be kindled.' The noun form אֶקְדָּח literally means 'a burning thing' or 'that which burns,' directly linking the gemstone's appearance to the imagery of fire or glowing embers. This etymological connection emphasizes the stone's perceived fiery visual quality rather than its mineral composition.

Semantic Range

Theologically, אֶקְדָּח is significant as a symbol in Isaiah's prophecy of the New Jerusalem (Isaiah 54:11-17). It represents the transcendent beauty, permanence, and divine origin of God's ultimate restoration for His people. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading by highlighting how the prophet uses the imagery of a 'burning' gem—something precious and radiant—to depict the future glory that God Himself will establish, far surpassing any earthly splendor. It points to themes of covenant faithfulness, hope, and God's commitment to beautify and secure His people. In the ancient Near East, precious stones like the carbuncle were highly valued for their beauty and rarity, often associated with royalty, deities, and monumental buildings. A 'burning' gem would have been understood as a stone of exceptional brilliance and value, possibly believed to contain inner fire or light. Its inclusion in a prophetic building list signified not just wealth, but a divine, unshakeable, and radiant foundation for the community. אֹדֶם (ʼōdem, H124) — a red gem, likely carnelian or ruby; denotes redness. פְּנִינִים (pənînîm, H6443) — generally 'pearls' or precious red corals; emphasizes value. בָּרֶקֶת (bāreqeth, H1304) — a flashing gem, often emerald or carbuncle; emphasizes sparkle or lightning-like flash.

Word Details