Revelation 4:3

And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.

Revelation 4:3 (KJV)

Context

The apostle John received this vision while exiled on the island of Patmos. In Revelation 4, he is caught up in the Spirit and given a glimpse of the heavenly throne room, where the worship of God is the central focus.

Meaning

The phrase “he that sat” refers to God Himself. John does not attempt to describe God’s form, but His splendor, using the imagery of jasper and sardine stones. Jasper is associated with dazzling, crystalline brightness, while sardine (or sardius) is a blood-red stone, often identified with carnelian. Together, these precious stones convey the radiant glory, purity, holiness, and majesty of God. The fiery red of sardius may also point to divine judgment and the passionate love of God.

Around the throne is a rainbow “like unto an emerald.” The emerald-green hue, which predominates in the rainbow, is restful to the eye and suggests peace and mercy in the midst of judgment. This imagery recalls the covenant sign given to Noah (Genesis 9:9-16), symbolizing God’s faithfulness to His covenants and His mercy. The rainbow encircling the throne is a beautiful emblem of the mercy of God and the peace that pervades the heavenly scene, even as lightnings and thunderings proceed from the throne (Revelation 4:5).

Biblical connections

This vision also connects to Ezekiel’s description of the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord, which included a rainbow (Ezekiel 1:28). The combined imagery of jasper, sardius, and the emerald rainbow points to the transcendent glory and beauty of God, as well as His covenant-keeping nature. The description is fitting for a monarch, suggesting the idea of a prince in royal robes, and it impresses the mind with the majesty of Him who cannot be described and of whom no image should be attempted (cf. Deuteronomy 4:12).

Application

This vision invites believers to contemplate the awe-inspiring majesty of God’s throne room. It reminds us of God’s holiness, righteousness, and steadfast covenant promises. Trusting in the rainbow’s symbolism, we can find assurance that God keeps His promises and remains ever-present in our lives. The verse encourages believers to rely on God’s faithfulness, to seek the hope and renewal symbolized by the emerald rainbow, and to live in the confidence of His glorious, covenant-bound presence.

Reflection

Revelation 4:3 portrays the radiance and beauty of God through the imagery of jasper, sardius, and an emerald rainbow encircling His throne. The passage calls us to reflect on God’s glory, His covenant faithfulness, and the assurance we have in His unchanging promises.