Carbuncle
“To inflame / To flash”
Summary
A precious gemstone of brilliant red or fiery color mentioned in Scripture as one of the stones in the high priest's breastplate and as used symbolically.
☩Hebrew Terms
Two Hebrew words are rendered 'carbuncle.' The first, ekdach, appears only in Isaiah 54:12, where God promises to make the gates of restored Zion from carbuncles. This word, derived from a root meaning 'to inflame,' suggests a sparkling gem. The second, bareqeth, appears in Exodus 28:17 and 39:10 as the third stone in the first row of the high priest's breastplate, and in Ezekiel 28:13. This term, from a root meaning 'to flash,' indicates a bright, coruscating stone.
☩Identification
In the present state of knowledge about ancient Hebrew mineralogy, it is impossible to determine with precision which particular gem these terms denote. The Septuagint and Vulgate translate bareqeth as 'emerald' (smaragdus). However, under the name 'carbuncle' modern usage comprehends several brilliant red stones of the garnet family that resemble a glowing coal, such as the ruby, garnet, or spinel. The almandin, or noble Oriental garnet, with its transparent red color and violet shade, is particularly suggested.
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Carbuncle," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. II (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.Andrew Robert Fausset, "Carbuncle," in The Englishman's Critical and Expository Bible Cyclopædia (Hodder & Stoughton, 1878).
- 3.George Morrish, "Carbuncle," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).