Strong’s G4557: A variety of onyx characterized by alternating layers of sard (reddish brown) and white. As the fifth foundation stone of the New Jerusalem, it symbolizes the beauty of divine order and the blending of heavenly attributes. Highly valued in ancient times for royal seals and ornaments.

U- Unveiling the Word

Σαρδόνυξ represents a precious stone combining the qualities of sard and onyx, creating distinctive layered bands. In the New Testament, it appears in Revelation 21:20 as the fifth foundation stone of the New Jerusalem. The early church saw profound symbolism in its layered nature, interpreating it as representing the harmony of divine attributes and the multiple aspects of Christ’s character. Today, this stone continues to remind believers of the perfect order and beauty of God’s eternal kingdom.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σαρδόνυξ, sardonux, /sar-don’-uks/
• Pronunciation Guide: ‘sar’ as in ‘sardine’, ‘don’ as in ‘done’, ‘uks’ as in ‘books’
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• Compound word from:
• σάρδιον (sardion) meaning “sardius”
• ὄνυξ (onux) meaning “onyx”
• Combined to describe a stone with characteristics of both

D – Defining Meanings

• Primary meaning: A precious stone with alternating layers of sard and onyx
• Secondary meaning: A gem used in royal and sacred contexts
• Symbolic meaning: Divine harmony and ordered beauty

Translation Options:

• Sardonyx – Direct transliteration, most accurate
• Banded onyx – Descriptive translation
• Red-and-white onyx – Color-specific translation

E – Exploring Similar Words

• σάρδιον (sardion) /sar’-dee-on/ – One of its component stones. See G4556
• ὄνυξ (onux) /on’-uks/ – The other component stone (not in NT but related)
• χρυσόπρασος (chrusoprasos) /khroo-sop’-ras-os/ – Another foundation stone. See G5556

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological features as a noun:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular and Plural
• Gender: Masculine
• Declension: Third declension

Examples:

• Nominative: σαρδόνυξ
• Genitive: σαρδόνυχος
• Dative: σαρδόνυχι
• Accusative: σαρδόνυχα

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG identifies σαρδόνυξ as a precious stone with alternating layers. Thayer’s emphasizes its composite nature. LSJ documents its value in ancient jewelry making. Vine’s notes its significance in Revelation’s architectural imagery. Strong’s connects it to both sard and onyx components. Moulton and Milligan cite its presence in ancient commercial contexts.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Revelation 21:20: “The fifth, sardonyx [σαρδόνυξ]; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolyte; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst.”

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Σαρδόνυξ beautifully illustrates how different elements combine to create something of extraordinary beauty, just as diverse attributes of God’s character blend perfectly in His nature. As a foundation stone of the New Jerusalem, it proclaims the good news that in Christ, all things are being brought together in perfect harmony, and that our eternal home is built upon the unchangeable beauty of His character.

D – Did You Know?

1. Ancient Roman generals wore sardonyx rings for victory in battle
2. The alternating bands were often carved to create cameos
3. Medieval Christians saw its layers as representing the mysteries of faith

Strong’s G4557: A precious stone combining the characteristics of sard and onyx, featuring distinctive layered bands. Valued in ancient times for seals and ornaments, it appears in Revelation as the fifth foundation stone of the New Jerusalem, symbolizing divine harmony and order.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: precious-stones, new-jerusalem, revelation, foundation-stones, divine-harmony, gemstones, biblical-symbols, eternal-city, divine-order, heavenly-architecture​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​