Then mount four rows of precious stones on it. The first row shall be carnelian, chrysolite and beryl. The twelve precious stones of the breastpiece — four rows of three — are the most expensive and beautiful stones available in the ancient world. The first row: carnelian (red), chrysolite (green/yellow), and beryl (blue-green). The stones' colors create a visual representation of the diversity of the twelve tribes: no two stones are the same color, just as no two tribes are identical in character, history, or vocation. Revelation 21:19–20 describes the foundations of the new Jerusalem as precious stones — twelve foundations for twelve tribes, the same twelve stones that appear in the high priest's breastpiece.

COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS

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