σμάραγδος
smáragdos
G4665 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A precious green gemstone, typically referring to an emerald; the term is used in Hellenistic and later Greek to denote a transparent, bright green mineral of significant value, primarily for adornment or as a symbol of beauty and splendor. In certain contexts, may refer more generally to green stones of striking clarity or brilliance associated with luxury or majesty.
Semantic Range
emerald, green precious stone, jewel, symbol of beauty or splendor
Root / Etymology
Greek σμάραγδος; etymology uncertain, but likely borrowed from a Semitic source (compare Hebrew בָּרֶקֶת [bareqet], 'emerald,' or Akkadian baraqtu), or possibly ultimately derived from Sanskrit marakata, meaning 'emerald.' The transmission into Greek probably occurred through commercial routes in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical Greek texts, σμάραγδος is attested from the Hellenistic period onward, generally referring to a precious green gem, often identified with the emerald. In Greek and Roman literature, the term is used to describe the striking color and value of such stones, sometimes also used in descriptions of the rainbow or the sea to evoke vivid greenness. In the Septuagint (LXX), σμάραγδος appears in lists of precious stones (e.g., Exodus 28:17; Ezekiel 28:13), corresponding to Hebrew בָּרֶקֶת (bareqet), though identification with the modern emerald is uncertain and may include a variety of green stones. In the New Testament (Revelation 4:3; 21:19), σμάραγδος is mentioned among the foundation gems of the heavenly city, again likely representing a precious and visually stunning green stone, translated 'emerald' in many English versions. The semantic range in Koine Greek is narrower than in some classical or poetic contexts, where it can briefly indicate the color as well as the mineral. Modern translations often limit σμάραγδος to 'emerald,' which reflects the typical but not exclusive sense in ancient sources. Its reference to the modern mineral beryl/emerald (beryllium-aluminum silicate colored by chromium) is anachronistic, as ancient gem identification did not always match modern mineralogy. The term is distinct from other Greek gem names (e.g., ἀνθράξ for 'carbuncle', σαρδόνυξ for 'sardonyx').
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
of uncertain derivation; the emerald or green gem so called:--emerald.
Root Family
σμάραγδος (smaragdos) — green gemstone, precious stone
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4665-01 |
σμάραγδος | smaragdos | N NOM M SG |
emerald | emerald gemstone | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 total occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4665-01 |
Revelation 21:19 | σμάραγδος | smaragdos | N NOM M SG |
emerald | emerald gemstone |