Revelation 4:3 Meaning and Explanation
“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.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The One on the throne shines like precious stones, and a rainbow like an emerald encircles the throne.
What Does Revelation 4:3 Mean?
John does not describe a face or form, only radiance, light like jasper and sardine, brilliant and fiery. Around the throne arches a rainbow with the green glow of an emerald. The glory is too great to draw; it can only be likened to flashing gems and encircling light.
The throne is wrapped in beauty, not terror alone. The rainbow recalls the bow God set in the clouds as the sign of His covenant after the flood, a pledge of mercy that surrounds His rule. So the seat of judgment is ringed with the memory of grace. Even as John is shown holiness blazing like jewels, he is reminded that the One enthroned is faithful to His promises.
Revelation 4:3 in the Original Language
iris (ἶρις), 'rainbow' -- the arc of colored light, the same word later used for the bow over the mighty angel.
Frequently Asked Questions About Revelation 4:3
What does Revelation 4:3 mean?
The One on the throne shines like precious stones, and a rainbow like an emerald encircles the throne.