Realia:Stones of the Choshen/0

Stones of the Choshen

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Overview

The twelve stones of the choshen are named in Shemot 28:17-20. However, since the verses provide no other descriptive information, the identity of almost every stone is heavily debated. In trying to determine which gems are referred to, scholars look for descriptions in other verses in which the stones are mentioned, explore cognate languages for linguistic clues as to the stones' identity, and turn to identifications made by both the Aramaic and Greek translations of Torah. The various translations, however, are not in total agreement, and the identity of many of the Aramaic and Greek names are disputed. Bemidbar Rabbah provides further clues, as it lists the color of many of the stones. Given the many unknowns, it is not surprising that multiple possible identifications have been raised for almost every stone.

Possible Identifications

For pictures and discussion, see Olam HaMikra Shemot 28

1. אֹדֶם

• Identifications – A red stone, perhaps carnelian or jasper.
• Biblical verses – 
• Additional data – 

2. פִּטְדָה

• Biblical verses – 
• Additional data – 

3. בָרֶקֶת

4. נֹפֶךְ

5. סַפִּיר

6. יָהֲלֹם

7. לֶשֶׁם

8. שְׁבוֹ

9. אַחְלָמָה

10. תַּרְשִׁישׁ 

11. שֹׁהַם

יָשְׁפֵה