Ruby
“Possibly coral, pearls, or red gems”
Summary
The ruby in Scripture represents precious stones of great value, used to describe wisdom's worth and appearing among the gems adorning the high priest's breastplate.
☩Identification
The Hebrew word peninim, traditionally rendered 'rubies,' may refer to red coral, pearls, or precious red stones. The exact identification is uncertain, as ancient terminology for gems differs from modern usage. What is clear is that these stones were among the most valuable known to the ancient world, suitable for comparison with wisdom and virtuous character.
☩Symbolic Value
Wisdom is repeatedly said to be more precious than rubies. The virtuous woman of Proverbs 31 is declared to have worth 'far above rubies.' In Job's discourse on wisdom, he notes that coral and rubies cannot compare with wisdom's value, nor can it be purchased with gold. These comparisons use the most valuable known commodities to emphasize the surpassing worth of spiritual treasures.
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Ruby," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IX (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Ruby," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. IV (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.Andrew Robert Fausset, "Ruby," in The Englishman's Critical and Expository Bible Cyclopædia (Hodder & Stoughton, 1878).