Revelation 21:20 – “The fifth was onyx, the sixth ruby, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth turquoise, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse continues John’s description of the foundations of the wall of the New Jerusalem—the eternal city where God will dwell with His people. Each layer of the foundation is made of a different precious stone. Verse 19 began listing them, and this verse completes the list with the final eight: onyx, ruby, chrysolite, beryl, topaz, turquoise, jacinth, and amethyst.
These stones are known for their beauty, color, and value. John is painting a picture of overwhelming brilliance, variety, and richness. This is no ordinary city—it reflects the glory, holiness, and perfection of God. The use of twelve different stones also speaks to completeness, harmony, and unity. Together, they represent the full people of God, laid on a foundation that is secure and stunning.
Historical Context
Precious stones were deeply symbolic in the ancient world. They represented wealth, honor, power, and even spiritual meaning. Many of the stones listed here are also found in the high priest’s breastplate in Exodus 28:17-20, where each stone stood for one of the twelve tribes of Israel.
To first-century believers—many of whom lived in poverty or faced persecution—this picture of a city built on priceless stones would have been deeply encouraging. It reminded them that, in God’s eyes, they are part of something far more valuable than anything the world has to offer. God was not just preparing a place for them—He was building it with beauty and intention.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the richness and glory of God’s eternal plan. The foundation of the New Jerusalem is not plain or hidden—it is made of the rarest and most beautiful things. That tells us something about how much God values His people. What is precious to Him is not gold or gems in themselves, but the people they represent—those redeemed by His grace.
The twelve stones likely correspond to the twelve apostles mentioned in Revelation 21:14, and symbolically, to the whole people of God across history. This points to unity between Old Testament and New Testament believers—all part of the same eternal family, all part of the same strong foundation.
Literary Analysis
John uses poetic, layered language in Revelation to stir the imagination and deepen understanding. By listing each stone, he draws out a sense of wonder and awe. Each one adds to the image of beauty, but also represents the depth and diversity of God’s people. The use of twelve stones is not random—it’s a consistent symbol throughout Scripture for completeness and covenant.
The verse builds on the rhythm of the previous one, giving a sense of order and design. It’s not just a pile of gems. It’s a carefully constructed foundation. That reflects God’s character—He does everything with purpose and care.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 28:17-20 – Describes the high priest’s breastplate with twelve stones, each representing a tribe of Israel.
- Isaiah 54:11-12 – “I will lay your foundations with sapphires… your gates of sparkling jewels.”
- 1 Corinthians 3:11 – “No one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.”
- 1 Peter 2:5 – “You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house.”
- Revelation 21:14 – The twelve foundations have the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that we are part of something beautiful, eternal, and meaningful. Even if our current lives are full of hardship or feel insignificant, God is building something far greater than we can see. And we, as His people, are part of the very structure of that city.
It also encourages us to live with purpose and confidence. If God builds His city on a foundation like this, we can trust Him to build our lives with the same care and value. We are not forgotten or overlooked—we are included in His eternal plan.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
A loving God doesn’t just make a safe place for His people—He makes it beautiful. Each foundation stone reflects His love, not just in strength, but in beauty, in variety, and in care. He could have built the city with plain rock, but He chose to use the finest, most brilliant materials. That shows His heart.
These stones also represent people—God’s chosen, redeemed people. His love is not generic. It is personal. Just as each stone is distinct, each person in His family is known, valued, and placed by Him with purpose.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the cornerstone—the foundation of our faith (1 Corinthians 3:11, Ephesians 2:20). The apostles taught the truth about Him, and the people of God are built on that truth. Jesus gave His life to make it possible for us to be part of this eternal city.
In Matthew 13:45-46, Jesus said the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he finds one of great value, he sells everything to buy it. That’s what Jesus did for us. He gave everything to bring us into His kingdom—and this city, with all its glory, is part of that gift.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think God chose to describe the foundations of His city with precious stones?
- What do these stones say about the way God sees His people?
- How does this verse encourage you in times when you feel unimportant or overlooked?
- In what ways are you allowing your life to be built on the foundation of Jesus Christ?
- How can the beauty of God’s eternal city shape the way you think about heaven?
- What does this passage teach you about the value and unity of all God’s people across time?