Commentary

What does Revelation 21:19 mean?

“And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald;” — Revelation 21:19

Commentary Devotional Prayer

Revelation 21:19 (KJV) states, "And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald."

The book of Revelation, often considered the final prophetic message of the Bible, is full of vivid and powerful imagery that can be interpreted in many ways. The verse in question describes the foundations of the wall of a magnificent city adorned with precious stones, each with its own unique significance and symbolism.

One of the key themes in Revelation 21 is the description of the New Jerusalem, a heavenly city prepared by God for those who have been faithful to Him. The city is described as having walls made of jasper, and adorned with precious stones. The use of precious stones in this context symbolizes the beauty, purity, and perfection of the city.

The first foundation stone mentioned in the verse is jasper. In biblical times, jasper was highly valued for its vibrant and varied colors, which may symbolize the diversity and beauty of God's creation. It is also a stone associated with protection and grounding, suggesting the stability and security of the city of God.

The second foundation stone mentioned is sapphire. In biblical and ancient Near Eastern culture, sapphire was often associated with the divine and was considered a symbol of divine favor and protection. The use of sapphire in the foundations of the New Jerusalem could symbolize the divine favor and protection that God's people will enjoy in the heavenly city.

The third foundation stone, chalcedony, is a type of quartz that comes in a variety of colors. In ancient folklore, chalcedony was believed to promote feelings of brotherhood and goodwill, which may symbolize the unity and harmony of the inhabitants of the New Jerusalem.

The fourth foundation stone, emerald, is a gemstone often associated with the color green, which in Christian symbolism represents growth, renewal, and the eternal life found in Christ. The emerald in the foundation of the New Jerusalem could symbolize the eternal life and renewal that believers will experience in the presence of God.

Overall, the mention of these precious stones in the foundations of the heavenly city in Revelation 21:19 serves to convey the sense of beauty, purity, and perfection that characterizes the New Jerusalem. The use of precious stones as building materials also serves to underscore the richness and abundance of God's kingdom, and the value He places on His people, whom He has prepared a place for.

In conclusion, Revelation 21:19 (KJV) uses the imagery of precious stones to convey the beauty, purity, and perfection of the New Jerusalem, the heavenly city prepared by God for His faithful followers. The use of jasper, sapphire, chalcedony, and emerald as foundation stones serves to symbolize the divine favor, protection, unity, and eternal life that believers will enjoy in the presence of God. This verse ultimately serves as a powerful reminder of the hope and promise of a future life in the presence of God, where believers will enjoy the fullness of His love and provision.

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Artwork for Revelation 21:19

Revelation 21:19 - "And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald;"

"And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald;" - Revelation 21:19

Revelation 19:19-21

Revelation 19:21 - "And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh."