The name Amber has become quite popular in recent years as a girl’s name, but many may not be aware of the biblical meaning and significance behind this beautiful name. Amber is actually derived from the Hebrew word Chashmal, which is mentioned in the Bible in Ezekiel 1:4 and Ezekiel 8:2. Let’s explore the meaning behind the name Amber from a biblical perspective.
The Hebrew Origin of Amber
In the Hebrew language, the word “Chashmal” refers to a metal or substance that appears like burnished metal glowing from a fire. It is described in the Bible as the radiant glowing metal seen by the prophet Ezekiel in his visions of God’s glory.
Here are the two biblical passages where the Hebrew word Chashmal appears:
Ezekiel 1:4 (ESV) – “As I looked, behold, a stormy wind came out of the north, and a great cloud, with brightness around it, and fire flashing forth continually, and in the midst of the fire, as it were gleaming metal.”
Ezekiel 8:2 (ESV) – “Then I looked, and behold, a form that had the appearance of a man. Below what appeared to be his waist was fire, and above his waist was something like the appearance of brightness, like gleaming metal.”
The Jewish Publication Society translates Chashmal in these verses as “amber.” The radiance and brilliance of this glowing metal seen by Ezekiel reminded the translators of the luminescent golden-yellow color of amber.
Thus, the name Amber derives from this obscure Hebrew word referring to a brightly glowing metal or substance envisioned by the prophet Ezekiel in his extraordinary biblical visions.
The Meaning Behind Amber in the Bible
What is significant about the amber color seen by Ezekiel in these mysterious visions? Amber represents the radiance, glory and presence of God revealed to the prophet Ezekiel in a supernatural way.
The amber brilliance was part of the divine throne-chariot vision Ezekiel witnessed, surrounded by lightning, spinning wheels, and four living creatures (Ezekiel 1). In chapter 8, Ezekiel is again transported in a vision to the temple in Jerusalem where God’s presence appears like brilliant amber.
These passages show amber symbolizing the dazzling glory and holiness of the Lord. The amber radiance emanates from God’s own presence, manifesting His splendor and majesty. The name Amber reflects divine radiance, as associated with the character of God Himself.
Amber in the Bible and Revelation
Amber also connects to the book of Revelation’s descriptions of the glory of God and heaven. Revelation 4:3 describes the appearance of God’s throne like “jasper and carnelian,” stones that shine with a golden-orange amber glow. The brilliant amber color points to the blazing, energetic presence of God.
In Revelation 21:11, the radiance of God’s glory illuminates the New Jerusalem, shining through precious stones, with a “jasper clear as crystal” stone. Once again, amber-colored jasper stones reflect the luminosity of heaven and God Himself. The amber hues represent the light, brilliance and fire in God’s unveiled presence.
Amber has long been associated with beauty, light and energy. As an organic gemstone formed from ancient fossilized tree resin, amber is fiery and luminous when held to the light. Amber’s solar connections and energy resonate biblically with the blazing glory of God and heaven.
Amber in the Bible Represents God’s Presence
In summary, the amber color in Ezekiel’s vision directly represents seeing the vibrant presence and glory of God. The name Amber reflects radiance, luminosity, divinity, and the revelation of God’s holy presence.
The Bible uses amber as a visual metaphor to describe the brilliance emanating from God Himself. The name Amber captures this glowing, energetic essence of the divine presence portrayed biblically.
Amber is also associated with amber-colored precious stones (jasper, carnelian) used to convey the splendid glory of God and heaven. The luminous amber gemstones reflect divine light, energy, holiness and beauty.
For all these reasons, the name Amber has a significant biblical meaning connected to the manifest glory and presence of God, as depicted in the scriptures.
Amber in the Bible: Associations and Symbolism
Here are some key symbolic associations of the name Amber from a biblical perspective:
- Divine presence
- Glory of God
- Radiance
- Brilliance
- Luminosity
- Light
- Energy
- Holiness
- Majesty
- Beauty
- Heaven
- Revelation
- Vision
- Prophecy
Amber is a name steeped in biblical meaning. Its connections to the warm, luminous presence of God make it a beautiful name choice for a baby girl.
The name Amber reflects the very essence of God revealed in Scripture – His splendor, majesty, holiness, and glory. This luminous, energetic name captures the radiant beauty of the divine presence described from Genesis to Revelation.
Popularity of the Name Amber
While Amber has rich biblical meaning, it also became a contemporary favorite name in America. According to the Social Security Administration, Amber first entered the top 1,000 girl names in the United States in 1880. It rose dramatically in popularity through the late 20th century, ranking in the top 10 girl names from 1980 to 1992.
Here’s a look at Amber’s popularity peak during the 1970s through 1990s:
| Year | Rank |
|---|---|
| 1971 | 247 |
| 1981 | 5 |
| 1991 | 4 |
| 2001 | 56 |
Amber may have gotten a boost from the 1970s Forever Amber novel and movies popularizing the name. Parents may have also been attracted to its lively, golden-orange gemstone associations.
The energy and brightness of Amber appeal to parents looking for a lively but soft name for their baby girl. While Amber has declined in popularity today, it remains a timeless name with deep roots in the Bible.
Famous People Named Amber
Several celebrities also bear the name Amber, including:
- Amber Heard – Actress known for Aquaman and Magic Mike XXL
- Amber Riley – Actress who played Mercedes on Glee
- Amber Rose – Model, actress and media personality
- Amber Tamblyn – Actress known for Joan of Arcadia and House
Conclusion
Amber is a biblical name representing the glowing radiance and glory of God described by the prophet Ezekiel. Its connections to precious, luminous stones reinforce its symbolism of light, beauty and the divine presence.
While popular modernly as well, Amber derives from an obscure Hebrew word Chashmal referring to the brilliant amber color of God’s glory in Ezekiel’s mysterious visions. The name beautifully reflects the energetic, golden brilliance of the Lord in Scripture.
So for parents seeking a meaningful biblical name, Amber offers rich symbolism from the pages of the Bible itself.
