New Testament
Revelation 21:19
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Revelation 21:19, the description of the city wall's foundations highlights the beauty and splendor of the New Jerusalem.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
The foundations of the city wall were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The 1st foundation was jasper, the 2nd sapphire, the 3rd chalcedony, the 4th 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;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Revelation 21:19, the description of the city wall's foundations highlights the beauty and splendor of the New Jerusalem. Each foundation is adorned with a different precious stone, symbolizing the glory and richness of God's kingdom. The first stone, jasper, is often associated with purity and brightness, while sapphire represents wisdom and divine favor. Chalcedony, a stone of harmony, and emerald, known for its vibrant green color, signify renewal and life. This imagery serves to illustrate the magnificence of the eternal city where believers will dwell with God. The use of precious stones emphasizes the value and beauty of the heavenly realm, contrasting with the temporary and often flawed nature of earthly life. This passage invites readers to envision a future filled with divine beauty and perfection, encouraging hope and faith in God's promises. Explore related worship.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Revelation 21:19 to your life
Reflect on the beauty and glory of God's promises as depicted in Revelation. Let this imagery inspire you to seek a deeper relationship with God, reminding you that your future in Him is filled with hope and splendor beyond earthly understanding.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What do the precious stones in Revelation 21:19 symbolize?
The precious stones in Revelation 21:19 symbolize the beauty, glory, and richness of God's kingdom. Each stone represents different attributes: jasper signifies purity, sapphire denotes wisdom, chalcedony reflects harmony, and emerald symbolizes renewal and life. Together, they illustrate the magnificence of the New Jerusalem, emphasizing the eternal splendor awaiting believers.
Why is the New Jerusalem described with precious stones?
The New Jerusalem is described with precious stones to convey its unparalleled beauty and divine nature. This imagery serves to highlight the contrast between the flawed, temporary nature of earthly life and the perfect, eternal existence in God's kingdom. The use of precious materials signifies the value and glory of the heavenly realm, inviting believers to envision a future filled with hope and divine splendor.
How can Revelation 21:19 inspire my faith?
Revelation 21:19 can inspire your faith by reminding you of the incredible beauty and perfection that awaits in God's kingdom. Reflecting on the imagery of the precious stones can encourage you to deepen your relationship with God, fostering hope and assurance in His promises. It serves as a reminder that despite earthly struggles, a glorious future filled with divine beauty is promised to believers.
What is the significance of the New Jerusalem in Revelation?
The New Jerusalem in Revelation represents the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises to His people. It symbolizes a place of eternal peace, joy, and communion with God, free from suffering and sin. The detailed description, including the foundations adorned with precious stones, emphasizes the beauty and perfection of this eternal dwelling, encouraging believers to look forward to their future with hope.
The Book of Revelation
Revelation 1: The Revelation of Jesus Christ
This is the revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gives Him to show His servants things which must shortly come to pass, sent and signified by His angel to John, who bears record of the word of God. A blessing is pronounced upon those who read and hear the words of this prophecy and keep the things written therein, for the time is at hand. John writes to the seven churches in Asia, sending grace and peace from Him which is, and which was, and which is to come, and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the first begotten of the dead, who washed us from our sins in His own blood. He declares Himself Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending. John, in the isle of Patmos for the word of God, is in the Spirit on the Lord's day and hears behind him a great voice as a trumpet. Turning, he sees seven golden candlesticks and one like the Son of man among them, clothed to the foot, His head and hairs white as wool, His eyes as a flame of fire, His feet like fine brass, His voice as the sound of many waters, seven stars in His right hand, and a sharp twoedged sword going out of His mouth. John falls at His feet as dead, and the Lord lays His right hand upon him, saying, Fear not, I am the first and the last, He that liveth and was dead and is alive for evermore. He reveals that the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches and the seven candlesticks are the seven churches.
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