The tradition of birthstones is a multifaceted cultural practice with deep historical roots, connecting ancient religious symbolism to modern personal adornment. While the Bible does not explicitly prohibit the wearing of gemstones, the historical association of birthstones with pagan beliefs and superstitions raises important questions for Christians. This article explores the historical background of birthstones, their significance, and the biblical principles that guide a Christian's discernment regarding their use. It is crucial to understand that the discussion centers on the meaning and intent behind wearing these stones, rather than the stones themselves, which are described in Scripture as part of the high priest’s breastplate and other sacred objects.
The core issue revolves around the intent behind wearing the stones. If a birthstone is worn purely as a decorative item, without attributing any spiritual power or significance to it, there is no direct conflict with Christian teachings. However, believing that a birthstone can bring luck, health, or protection is viewed as placing trust in an object rather than in God. This practice aligns with idolatry, which the Bible warns against in 1 John 5:21, stating, “Little children, keep yourselves from idols.” Therefore, discernment is crucial. Christians are encouraged to examine their motivations for possessing birthstones and to ensure that their actions do not contradict biblical principles. Furthermore, Christians are called to be a witness to others, and wearing a birthstone with the expectation of mystical benefits could potentially cause confusion or lead others to believe a believer subscribes to superstitious beliefs. In such cases, it might be prudent to avoid wearing birthstones to maintain a strong testimony. Ultimately, all choices should be made with the intention of glorifying God, as stated in 1 Corinthians 10:31.
The Historical Background of Birthstones
The concept of birthstones is believed to have originated from ancient times, with connections to the twelve stones found in the high priest’s breastplate described in Exodus. The breastplate contained twelve stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel:
“And you shall put settings of stones in it, four rows of stones: The first row shall be a sardius, a topaz, and an emerald; this shall be the first row. The second row shall be a turquoise, a sapphire, and a diamond; the third row, a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst; and the fourth row, a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. They shall be set in gold settings” (Exodus 28:17-20, NKJV).
This biblical foundation provided a starting point for later interpretations. The Roman scholar Titus Flavius Josephus, around 100 AD, made one of the earliest documented lists of birthstones, based on his study of the biblical account of Aaron’s breastplate. In the 4th century, Christians further associated the twelve gemstones with the twelve apostles, assigning a specific stone to each apostle as a means of honoring them. For example, Peter was linked to jasper, while Andrew was associated with ruby. Wearing a gemstone connected to a favored apostle became a way to express devotion.
Early Christians, in the 8th and 9th centuries, adopted a practice of wearing all twelve stones simultaneously, believing that each stone held heightened power during its corresponding month. This practice gradually evolved, and by the 16th century, the modern tradition of wearing only one stone for one’s specific birth month became established. The appeal lies in the combination of aesthetic beauty and the perceived therapeutic advantages associated with each stone. The connection to the Breastplate of Aaron and the twelve apostles adds a layer of historical and religious significance for some.
Biblical Context and Christian Views
The question of whether Christians should wear birthstones is a nuanced one. The Bible itself does not explicitly forbid the wearing of gemstones. However, the historical association of birthstones with pagan beliefs and superstitions raises concerns for some Christians. The core issue revolves around the intent behind wearing the stones.
The Bible explicitly warns against seeking power or guidance from objects, omens, or divination:
“There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who conjures spells, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead. For all who do these things are an abomination to the Lord, and because of these abominations the Lord your God drives them out from before you.” (Deuteronomy 18:10-12, NKJV)
If someone keeps a birthstone merely as a decorative item, without attributing any power or meaning to it, there is no direct conflict with the Christian faith. However, if a person believes that a birthstone can bring luck, health, or protection, they are placing trust in an object rather than in God.
Should Christians Possess Birthstones?
The decision to have birthstones should be approached with discernment. Here are some considerations for Christians:
- Avoiding Idolatry and Superstition: The Bible warns against idolatry, which includes placing faith in objects rather than in God. “Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.” (1 John 5:21, NKJV). Christians should ensure that they do not attribute any spiritual power to birthstones.
- Checking Personal Intentions: If a Christian keeps a birthstone simply as a decorative item without any belief in its supposed powers, there is no biblical prohibition against it. However, if the motivation stems from superstition or belief in luck, it would be wise to reconsider.
- Being a Witness to Others: Christians are called to be a light to the world. If having a birthstone could cause confusion or lead others to think a believer subscribes to mystical beliefs, it might be best to avoid it for the sake of maintaining a strong testimony.
- Honoring God Above All Else: Scripture reminds us, “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31, NKJV). A Christian’s choices should ultimately bring glory to God rather than be a distraction.
Conclusion
Birthstones, in and of themselves, are not inherently sinful. The Bible does not forbid Christians from having gemstones. However, believers must be cautious about the potential spiritual implications. Birthstones have historical ties to superstitions and pagan beliefs, and Christians should avoid placing faith in them for guidance, protection, or fortune.
If a Christian chooses to possess a birthstone, it should be purely for aesthetic reasons, without any association with mystical properties. As with all things, Christians should seek the Lord’s wisdom in their decisions and ensure that their actions align with biblical principles. In all things, believers should remember that their faith, security, and blessings come from God alone, not from any object, including birthstones.
Birthstones possess a rich and multifaceted history, originating in ancient religious practices and evolving over centuries into a popular cultural tradition. While the Bible does not explicitly condemn the wearing of gemstones, Christians are cautioned against attributing spiritual power to them or relying on them for guidance, protection, or fortune. The key lies in intention: wearing a birthstone purely for aesthetic reasons is permissible, while believing in its inherent power is discouraged. Ultimately, a Christian’s choices should align with biblical principles and bring glory to God. The enduring appeal of birthstones reflects a human desire for meaning, beauty, and connection to the past, a desire that can be enjoyed responsibly and with discernment.