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ἴασπις

íaspis

G2393 noun

SILEX Entry

Definition

A type of precious stone, often described as 'jasper,' known for its translucency and varied coloring; primarily denotes a semiprecious gemstone prized for its appearance. In some sources, serves generically for lustrous stones or as a symbol of beauty or value. In the context of biblical apocalyptic imagery, indicates a radiant or jewel-like quality, not necessarily identical to the modern mineral 'jasper.'

Semantic Range

jasper; semiprecious stone; gem of varied or radiant appearance; symbol of preciousness or beauty in apocalyptic imagery

Root / Etymology

Borrowed from a Semitic source, likely Hebrew יָשְׁפֵה (yashfeh), as referenced by Septuagint usage, though a more remote eastern origin is possible. Entered Greek through contact with eastern gem-trading cultures.

Historical & Contextual Notes

The term ἴασπις appears primarily in Hellenistic and later Greek, particularly in Jewish and early Christian writings where Eastern gems were prized and discussed. In classical Greek literature, the term is rare or absent. In the Septuagint, ἴασπις is used to translate Hebrew יָשְׁפֵה, a stone listed among the precious stones for priestly garments (Exodus 28:20, 39:13) and among foundation stones in visionary or apocalyptic passages. In the New Testament (e.g. Revelation 21:11, 21:18–19), ἴασπις is mentioned as a gemstone used in the description of the heavenly city, highlighting its brilliance and value. The identification of 'jasper' in antiquity does not correspond precisely to the modern mineral known by this name; ancient sources describe jasper as variously translucent or highly valued for its greenish, sometimes variegated colors, unlike modern opaque jasper varieties. English translations traditionally render ἴασπις as 'jasper,' but the ancient conception may overlap with other lustrous or variegated quartz stones. The symbolic use in apocalyptic or emblematic contexts suggests an association with radiance and preciousness rather than specific mineralogy.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

probably of foreign origin (see יָשְׁפֵה); "jasper", a gem:--jasper.

Root Family

ἴασπις (iaspis) — precious stone, gemstone, jasper (broad sense)

Root ἰασπ- precious stone, gemstone, jasper (broad sense)

Word Forms

2 distinct forms

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G2393-02 ἴασπις iaspis N NOM F SG jasper jasper gemstone jasper 2
G2393-01 ἰάσπιδι iaspidi N DAT F SG a jasper to a precious gemstone to a jasper 2

Occurrences in Scripture

4 occurrences

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G2393-01 Revelation 4:3 ἰάσπιδι iaspidi N DAT F SG a jasper to a precious gemstone to a jasper
G2393-01 Revelation 21:11 ἰάσπιδι iaspidi N DAT F SG jasper to a precious gemstone to jasper
G2393-02 Revelation 21:18 ἴασπις iaspis N NOM F SG jasper jasper gemstone jasper gemstone
G2393-02 Revelation 21:19 ἴασπις iaspis N NOM F SG jasper jasper gemstone jasper
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