In the Bible, jasper is a precious stone mentioned in the Book of Revelation (21:18) as one of the stones used in the foundations of the New Jerusalem. It symbolizes beauty, purity, and the glory of God, often associated with His majesty and the splendor of His creation.
Scripture
15 “You shall make a breastpiece of judgment, in skilled work. In the style of the ephod you shall make it—of gold, blue and purple and scarlet yarns, and fine twined linen shall you make it.
16 It shall be square and doubled, a span its length and a span its breadth.
17 You shall set in it four rows of stones. A row of sardius, topaz, and carbuncle shall be the first row;
18 and the second row a turquoise, a sapphire, and an emerald;
19 and the third row a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst;
20 and the fourth row a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. They shall be set in gold filigree.
Meaning of Jasper in the Bible
The jasper stone carries deep symbolic significance in the Bible, particularly in the context of the New Jerusalem described in Revelation 21:18, where it is highlighted as a constituent of the city’s foundations. The imagery suggests not only physical beauty but also spiritual connotations of purity and perfection. Revelation 4:3 further reinforces this idea, as John describes God’s appearance like jasper—radiant and majestic. The stone represents the brilliant glory of God, illuminating the essence of His presence and holiness. In ancient times, jasper was esteemed for its striking appearance, which reflects God’s creative artistry as seen in the world around us. The inclusion of jasper among other stones in Revelation symbolizes the diverse beauty of God’s creation, inviting believers to envision a future eternity marked by divine splendor and the full manifestation of His glory.
Moreover, jasper’s role in the emerald green hues of the heavenly city evokes the themes of restoration and renewal, reflecting the promise of God to reconcile humanity with Himself. Just as the beauty of jasper stands out amidst other gemstones, it serves as a metaphor for the unique relationship believers have with God—set apart, redeemed, and cherished. In biblical literature, precious stones often symbolize character traits of God, with jasper embodying not only beauty and majesty but also resilience and strength. Through this lens, jasper can be seen as a reminder of the importance of embodying these virtues in one’s own life journey, ultimately pointing to a deeper desire for communion with God, as echoed in Philippians 3:20, where believers are ultimately citizens of a heavenly kingdom, a reflection of the divine masterpiece found in the New Jerusalem.
Jasper, with its multifaceted colors and brilliance, represents a broader Biblical significance beyond merely being a decorative stone. As a manifestation of God’s glory, jasper can also be interpreted through its connection with the high priest’s breastplate, where it is listed among the twelve stones symbolizing the tribes of Israel. This association emphasizes God’s covenant with His people and His desire for a personal relationship with each tribe, portraying His protective and guiding nature. The stone thus functions as a symbol of God’s faithfulness and dedication, reminding believers that they are continually cherished and upheld in a divine narrative that weaves together history, identity, and purpose.
Furthermore, jasper’s qualities of being polished and reflective mirror the transformative journey of believers. Just as jasper emerges from its rough origins into something beautiful and sought after, so too are individuals called to undergo a process of spiritual refinement. This transformation reflects the essence of sanctification, a theme that is prevalent within the New Testament. Believers, through trials and tribulations, are shaped into vessels of honor that shine brightly in a world often fraught with darkness. Thus, jasper stands as a profound reminder of the inward beauty that develops through faith and perseverance, ultimately inviting individuals to embrace their identity as holders of God’s light in a world yearning for hope and redemption.
Symbol of Divine Glory
Jasper is often associated with the glory and majesty of God. In biblical literature, precious stones frequently symbolize the beauty and splendor of the divine presence. Jasper, with its radiant and multifaceted appearance, serves as a metaphor for the brilliance of God’s nature and the heavenly realm. This connection emphasizes the idea that God’s glory is not only awe-inspiring but also multifaceted, reflecting various aspects of His character and attributes.
Representation of Purity and Righteousness
In biblical symbolism, jasper is also linked to purity and righteousness. The stone’s clear and brilliant qualities can be seen as a representation of the moral and spiritual purity that believers are called to pursue. This association highlights the importance of living a life that reflects the holiness of God, encouraging individuals to strive for righteousness in their thoughts, actions, and relationships.
Connection to the New Jerusalem
Jasper is mentioned in the context of the New Jerusalem, symbolizing the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises to His people. The presence of jasper in the description of the heavenly city signifies the beauty and perfection of the eternal dwelling place prepared for believers. This connection serves as a reminder of the hope and assurance that believers have in their future with God, where they will experience the fullness of His glory and the joy of eternal life.
How to Embrace Purity in Daily Christian Living
Embracing purity in our daily Christian living is a beautiful journey that begins with a sincere heart and a commitment to align our thoughts and actions with God’s will. It’s essential to cultivate a mindset that seeks holiness in every aspect of life, from the words we speak to the choices we make. Start by immersing yourself in Scripture, allowing God’s Word to transform your heart and guide your decisions. Surround yourself with uplifting influences—friends who share your values, uplifting music, and enriching community activities that foster spiritual growth. Remember, purity isn’t just about avoiding sin; it’s about actively pursuing righteousness and reflecting Christ’s love in all you do. When you stumble, as we all do, lean into God’s grace, confess your shortcomings, and rise again with renewed determination. Each day is a new opportunity to live out your faith authentically, shining as a beacon of hope and purity in a world that desperately needs it.
Bible References to the Meaning of Jasper:
Revelation 4:2-3: 2 At once I was in the Spirit, and behold, a throne stood in heaven, with one seated on the throne.
3 And he who sat there had the appearance of jasper and carnelian, and around the throne was a rainbow that had the appearance of an emerald.
Revelation 21:10-11: 10 And he carried me away in the Spirit to a great, high mountain, and showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God,
11 having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal.
Revelation 21:18-20: 18 The wall was built of jasper, while the city was pure gold, like clear glass.
19 The foundations of the wall of the city were adorned with every kind of jewel. The first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald,
20 the fifth onyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, the twelfth amethyst.
Ezekiel 28:12-13: 12 “Son of man, raise a lamentation over the king of Tyre, and say to him, Thus says the Lord God: “You were the signet of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty.
13 You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone was your covering, sardius, topaz, and diamond, beryl, onyx, and jasper, sapphire, emerald, and carbuncle; and crafted in gold were your settings and your engravings. On the day that you were created they were prepared.
Rev. François Dupont is a dedicated church minister with a wealth of experience in serving spiritual communities. With a calm and serene demeanor, he has been devoted to sharing the message of love, compassion, and tolerance for over two decades. Through his thoughtful sermons, compassionate counseling, and unwavering support, Rev. Dupont has touched the lives of countless individuals, allowing them to find solace and strength during difficult times. His serene presence and deep understanding of the human condition make him a trusted guide for those seeking spiritual nourishment and guidance.