Exodus 28:18
And the second row shall be an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond.
Original Language Analysis
הַשֵּׁנִ֑י
And the second
H8145
הַשֵּׁנִ֑י
And the second
Strong's:
H8145
Word #:
2 of 5
properly, double, i.e., second; also adverbially, again
Historical Context
Ancient sapphires (Hebrew סַפִּיר, sappir) were likely lapis lazuli, deep blue stones highly prized. The emerald (בָּרֶקֶת, bareqeth) was bright green. These second-row stones continued the pattern of maximum beauty and value.
Questions for Reflection
- How does your identity in Christ reflect heaven, life, and purity simultaneously?
- What does the connection between the breastplate and New Jerusalem teach about covenant continuity?
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Analysis & Commentary
The second row: emerald, sapphire, diamond (or jasper). Revelation 21:19-20 connects these stones to the New Jerusalem's foundations. Sapphire's blue suggests heaven; emerald's green suggests life; diamond's clarity suggests purity. Together they picture redeemed humanity—heavenly, living, pure in Christ. The continuity from breastplate to eternal city shows that what the high priest bore on his chest prefigured what God eternally treasures.