Bible Dictionary
Hyacinth
Hyacinth is the Revised Version rendering of “jacinth” in Revelation 9:17, describing a dark-purple color. In Revelation 21:20, the related word refers to a sapphire-like precious stone.
Definition
Hyacinth is an English spelling of the Greek word also rendered “jacinth.” In Revelation 9:17 it refers to a dark-purple color rather than to a stone. In Revelation 21:20, where a precious stone is intended, the related term is rendered “sapphire.”
Biblical Usage
The word describes the appearance of the breastplates in the vision of Revelation 9. In the list of foundations of the heavenly city, the related term refers to a precious stone and is translated “sapphire.”
Historical Background
The distinction in the supplied material is primarily one of translation and context: the word denotes a color in one passage and a stone in another.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Smith's Bible Dictionary
used in the Revised Version for jacinth in (Revelation 9:17) It is simply another English spelling of the same Greek word.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>hi'-a-sinth (huakinthos): the Revised Version (British and American) uses this word in Re 9:17 for the King James Version "jacinth," with reference, not to stone, but to dark-purple color. In Re 21:20, where stone is meant, the Revised Version (British and American) translations "sapphire."</p>