Exodus 39:11
And the second row, 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
Cross References
Exodus 28:18And the second row shall be an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond.Ezekiel 28:13Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was thy covering, the sardius, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of thy tabrets and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou wast created.
Historical Context
Lapis lazuli (sapphire) was highly prized in the ancient Near East, imported from Afghanistan. Its deep blue with gold flecks resembled the night sky. The presence of such costly imported stones demonstrated that nothing was too valuable for worship of YHWH.
Questions for Reflection
- What assurance comes from knowing Christ bears every believer individually, not just 'the church' generically?
- How does each stone's unique beauty illustrate that believers have distinct, God-given identities within the body?
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Analysis & Commentary
The second row—emerald (נֹפֶךְ, nophek), sapphire (סַפִּיר, sappir, lapis lazuli), and diamond (יָהֲלֹם, yahalom)—continues the spectrum of colors and brilliance. Sapphire's deep blue recalls heaven's glory (Exodus 24:10); emerald's green suggests life and growth; diamond's hardness and clarity symbolize enduring truth. Each tribe has God-given identity and worth; none are interchangeable or expendable. The high priest bore all twelve constantly, teaching that Christ's intercession encompasses every member of His body, none forgotten or neglected (John 17:20).