New Testament
Revelation 4:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The one seated on the throne gleamed like jasper and sardius stone, and a rainbow that shone like emerald encircled the throne.
Compare translations
And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.
What Revelation 4:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Revelation 4:3, the description of the one seated on the throne emphasizes the majesty and glory of God. The imagery of jasper and sardius stones suggests brilliance and beauty, indicating God's holiness and splendor. The rainbow, resembling emerald, symbolizes hope and God's covenant with humanity. This scene portrays a heavenly throne room, filled with light and color, reflecting God's divine nature and authority. The use of precious stones and the vibrant rainbow highlights the awe-inspiring presence of God, inviting worship and reverence. This vision serves to remind believers of God's sovereignty and the beauty of His creation, encouraging them to approach Him with awe and respect. The imagery also connects to the themes of judgment and mercy, as the rainbow signifies God's promise not to destroy the earth again, reinforcing His faithfulness to His people.
How to apply Revelation 4:3 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the greatness of God and approach Him with reverence. It reminds us of His promises and faithfulness, inspiring us to live in a way that reflects His glory and to trust in His sovereignty over our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jerusalem
David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Revelation 4:3
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Revelation 4:3
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Revelation
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Revelation 4:3 mean?
Revelation 4:3 describes God's majesty and glory, using imagery of precious stones and a rainbow to symbolize His holiness, beauty, and covenant with humanity.
What is the significance of the rainbow in Revelation 4:3?
The rainbow in Revelation 4:3 symbolizes hope and God's promise not to destroy the earth again, reflecting His faithfulness and mercy towards humanity.
What do jasper and sardius stones represent in Revelation 4:3?
Jasper and sardius stones in Revelation 4:3 represent brilliance and beauty, highlighting the splendor and holiness of God seated on the throne.
What themes are present in Revelation 4:3?
Revelation 4:3 encompasses themes of God's majesty, divine glory, hope, covenant, worship, sovereignty, and the balance of judgment and mercy.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.