Encyclopedia entry
Crystal
(Ezek. 1:22, with the epithet “terrible,” as dazzling the spectators with its brightness). The word occurs in Rev. 4:6; 21:11; 22:1. It is a stone of the flint order, the most refined kind of quartz. The Greek word here used means also literally “ice.” The ancients regarded the crystal as only pure water congealed into extreme hardness by great length of time.
Also from Smith's (1884) +−
the representative in the Authorized Version of two Hebrew words.
Zecucith occurs only in (Job 28:17) where “glass” probably is intended. kerach occurs in numerous passages in the Old Testament to denote “ice,” “frost,” etc.; but once only (Ezekiel 1:22) as is generally understood, to signify “crystal.” The ancients supposed rock-crystal to be merely ice congealed by intense cold. The similarity of appearance between ice and crystal caused no doubt the identity of the terms to express these substances. The Greek word occurs in (Revelation 4:6; 21:1) It may mean either “ice” or “crystal.”
In the Bible
5
Verses where Crystal is named. Berean Standard Bible (public domain).
- Ezekiel 1:22
Spread out above the heads of the living creatures was the likeness of an awesome expanse, gleaming like crystal.
- Job 28:17
Neither gold nor crystal can compare to it, nor jewels of fine gold be exchanged for it.
- Revelation 4:6
And before the throne was something like a sea of glass, as clear as crystal. In the center, around the throne, were four living creatures, covered with eyes in front and back.
- Revelation 21:11
shining with the glory of God. Its radiance was like a most precious jewel, like a jasper, as clear as crystal.
- Revelation 22:1
Then the angel showed me a river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb
Scripture on Crystal
5
Crystal references
4
Voices on Crystal
8
Surfaced by name match — accuracy varies by title clarity.
Sources · Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897) · Smith's Bible Dictionary (1884)
Public-domain text. Modernized only where archaic spelling impedes reading; original facts preserved. Verify against an authoritative modern reference before quoting.