Golden Brilliance: χρυσόλιθος (Strong’s G5555: chrysolithos) Illuminates Heaven’s Glory

Strong’s G5555: χρυσόλιθος is a compound noun derived from χρυσός (gold) and λίθος (stone), referring to a precious golden-yellow gemstone mentioned in biblical texts, particularly as one of the foundation stones of the New Jerusalem. It likely corresponds to modern topaz or chrysoberyl.

U- Unveiling the Word

χρυσόλιθος represents more than just a precious stone – it embodies divine glory and eternal beauty in biblical imagery. This golden-hued gem, combining the radiance of gold with the endurance of stone, appears most notably in Revelation 21:20 as the seventh foundation stone of the New Jerusalem. In ancient times, chrysolithos was highly valued for its brilliant yellow color, often associated with solar imagery and divine splendor. The early church saw it as symbolic of heavenly wisdom and the glory of God’s eternal kingdom. Today, this gem continues to remind believers of the magnificent splendor awaiting in the New Jerusalem.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: χρυσόλιθος, chrysolithos, khroo-SOL-ee-thos
• Pronunciation: khrü-so’-lē-thos
• Part of Speech: Noun (Masculine)

Etymology:

• χρυσός (chrysos) – gold, golden
• λίθος (lithos) – stone
  Combined to mean “golden stone” or “gold-stone”

D – Defining Meanings

• A precious stone of golden-yellow color
• A gem commonly identified with modern topaz or chrysoberyl
• A foundation stone of the New Jerusalem

For compound words:

• χρυσός contributes the golden color aspect
• λίθος provides the stone/mineral component

Translation Options:

• Chrysolite – maintains historical translation tradition
• Golden beryl – reflects modern mineralogical understanding
• Topaz – common modern equivalent

E – Exploring Similar Words

• χρυσός (chrysos, khroo-SOS) – pure gold See G5557
• λίθος (lithos, LEE-thos) – stone, precious stone See G3037
• χρυσοπράσος (chrysoprasos, khroo-SO-pra-sos) – chrysoprase See G5556

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Noun Features:

• Case: Nominative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Masculine
• Declension: Second

The word follows standard second declension patterns:
Nominative: χρυσόλιθος
Genitive: χρυσολίθου
Dative: χρυσολίθῳ
Accusative: χρυσόλιθον

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

The ancient lexicons provide rich insight into χρυσόλιθος. BDAG identifies it as a yellow gemstone, while Thayer’s emphasizes its golden hue. LSJ connects it to classical usage where it was highly valued in jewelry and decorative arts. Vine’s notes its significance in apocalyptic literature, particularly in Revelation’s description of the New Jerusalem. Moulton and Milligan’s papyri findings suggest it was a commonly traded luxury item in the ancient Mediterranean world. The consensus among lexicons points to a precious stone of golden-yellow color, though precise modern identification varies between topaz and chrysoberyl.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First Appearance:
And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The seventh foundation was chrysolite [χρυσόλιθος].

Additional References:
Exodus 28:20
Ezekiel 28:13

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

χρυσόλιθος stands as a powerful symbol of divine glory in Scripture, particularly in its role as a foundation stone of the New Jerusalem. Its golden radiance reflects the splendor of God’s eternal kingdom and reminds us of the magnificent inheritance awaiting believers. The good news is that through faith in King Jesus, we become living stones in His spiritual temple, with the promise of dwelling in that glorious city where χρυσόλιθος adorns its foundations, testifying to the eternal magnificence of our King.

D – Did You Know?

• χρυσόλιθος was so valued in ancient times that it was often used in royal seals
• The stone was believed to protect sailors from dangers at sea
• It appears in ancient medical texts as a treatment for various ailments

Strong’s G5555: χρυσόλιθος is a compound noun derived from χρυσός (gold) and λίθος (stone), referring to a precious golden-yellow gemstone mentioned in biblical texts, particularly as one of the foundation stones of the New Jerusalem. It likely corresponds to modern topaz or chrysoberyl.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: precious stones, gemstones, New Jerusalem, Revelation, foundation stones, biblical minerals, divine glory, heavenly city, apocalyptic literature, biblical symbolism​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​