Revelation 21:19 Meaning and Explanation
“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;”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The twelve foundations of the wall are adorned with every kind of precious stone, beginning with jasper, sapphire, chalcedony, and emerald.
What Does Revelation 21:19 Mean?
John describes the foundations bearing the apostles' names, now seen to be adorned with all manner of precious stones. He begins to name them in order: jasper, sapphire, chalcedony, emerald. The array recalls the breastplate worn by Israel's high priest, set with twelve gems engraved with the tribes' names.
The beauty is lavish and deliberate. Each foundation is a jewel, costly and brilliant, suited to the glory of the city it upholds. The connection to the priestly breastplate suggests that the whole city is bound up with worship and with bearing God's people before Him. For the reader, the shining foundations declare that what God builds He makes beautiful, and that the testimony of the apostles, on which faith rests, is precious beyond price in His sight.
Frequently Asked Questions About Revelation 21:19
What does Revelation 21:19 mean?
The twelve foundations of the wall are adorned with every kind of precious stone, beginning with jasper, sapphire, chalcedony, and emerald.