In the Greek version, the message here is directed at the Church, previously abased and impoverished, lacking in the law, prophets, or the Word of God, and beset by worldly storms while being swayed by various idolatries. It had no comforter and squandered its worth on remedies that brought no healing. Yet, He promises that He will Himself descend to establish on earth the heavenly Jerusalem, designated in the Revelation of John as the Bride and Wife of the Lamb, adorned like a precious stone, with walls and gates emblazoned with the names of Israel's tribes.
When referencing the arrangement of stones, the Hebrew term used suggests a meticulous placement, much like how a woman enhances her beauty with makeup. Where we speak of jasper, the Hebrew term is rendered differently by others—each with its own translation, emphasizing the riches of understanding embedded in this text.
This heavenly Jerusalem is now invited to witness the arrangement of its stones, or as the Greek interprets: behold, I prepare for you the ruby, the setting for your city that will be resplendent with rubies and have foundations of porphyry, walls made of jasper or chalcedony, and gates of crystal or elaborately carved stone. Importantly, those within will be taught by God, recognized as His disciples, dwelling in eternal peace and righteousness.
Throughout this, it becomes apparent that, in the pursuit of the supreme truth, which embodies virtue, we must seek the structural virtues for the Church's edification, avoiding the fables of Judaism. What do the Jews make of the Proverbs that declare wisdom to be more precious than rubies? If Christ represents the very power and wisdom of God, it is certainly folly to equate Him with mere lifeless stones.
The Psalmist tells us that the judgments of the Lord are true and desirable more than gold. The cornerstone laid for the foundation of Zion is described as a choice stone, a monumental value; whoever believes in it will not be disappointed. This stone was cast aside by the builders, namely the scribes and Pharisees, yet it has become the cornerstone.
The Apostle Peter reflects on this when he states that for us who believe, He is precious; while to those who reject Him, He becomes a stone of stumbling. To the rulers in the Acts of the Apostles, it is affirmed that this stone, neglected by them, is the head of the Church, uniting both Gentile and Jew in one body, forging the city that God created.
The Apostle writes to the Corinthians, identifying us as God’s building, and as a wise builder, he establishes the foundation of Christ. Each person’s work upon this foundation will be revealed through the fire of judgment. This foundation cannot be anything other than Jesus Christ, who is described as the cornerstone, upon which the apostles and prophets are structured.
Like living stones, we are built into a spiritual temple, offering spiritual sacrifices, as the scriptures indicate that a holy stone rests at the foundation. The Lord announced that He would build His Church upon a rock. Those who can access this city are invited to express joy: as we have heard, so we have seen in the city of the Lord of Hosts, where God is the eternal foundation.
The Creator of this divine city will restore His people and rebuild it. While it is not the moment to delve deep into the nature of the twelve prescribed precious stones discussed by various scholars, it suffices to mention they are cataloged in Exodus and Ezekiel. In Exodus, the high priest's breastplate illustrates four rows of stones, each significant to the twelve tribes of Israel.
The second row features ruby, sapphire, and jasper again. Even within our current understanding, incomplete as it may be, we see only through a glass dimly. Ezekiel describes a being adorned with precious gems, emphasizing beauty and holiness, signifying a high calling among the angelic hosts.
As we focus on the ruby, sapphire, and jasper: the ruby symbolizes the burning word of truth, illuminating the hearts of believers. This is the stone taken by a seraphim to cleanse Isaiah’s lips and will beautifully thrive in the land of Abila, where the finest gems abound. The sapphire evokes the heavens itself, aligning with the divine, while the jasper signifies strength and the ability to dismantle falsehoods, solidifying the Church’s defenses against error.
The varieties of jasper found throughout the earth reflect the Church’s diversity, adorned with spiritual gifts. The shoreline of this city is marked by crystal-clear gates, encouraging purity of faith among the faithful. These gates glitter with engravings, the quintessence of clarity, inviting all who enter not to be sullied but rather to uphold true faith.
As God’s people, we are all taught directly by Him, affirming our identity as His disciples. The peace bestowed upon them is a perfect peace, as they embark on the righteousness of the heavenly city, not exclusive to one nation but encompassing all of humanity. In seeking divine truth, we, unlike those who cling to worldly things, aspire to the heavenly realm—where Christ, the Son of God, cannot be hidden.
THEOSIS