What does the “gold” and “holy stones” refer to?

Some are of the opinion that the gold and holy stones are a symbolic reference to the children of Zion. It is based on Lamentations 4:2, where it is stated that they are the precious sons of Zion, worth their weight in fine gold. In addition, they are also compared to sacred stones, that is, precious stones, which is probably a reference to the holy stones in the high priest’s garment. Another reason for this image could be the comparison found in Zechariah 9:16, where it refers to the crown stones in a king's crown.¹

Others are of the opinion that it refers to the precious materials used in the temple. Solomon had lavishly overlaid it with gold (see 1 Kings 6:20–22, 1 Kings 6:30, 1 Kings 6:32). The pure gold used in the temple would not have been expected to lose its value and shine. In the same manner the holy stones are seen as either the stones of the Temple or the rubble of the sacred city in general.²

Both opinions are relevant. Both the glory of the temple and its destruction, as well as the death of the people are frequently connected in Lamentations (see Lamentations 2:16).³ The past glory of the city and its people may be compared to precious metal because both were precious and shined.⁴ However, throughout the song, the residents are seen as the real glory of Zion, and therefore it is better to understand that they are meant here.⁵ The throwing down of the people is the focal point (see Lamentations 2:19; Lamentations 4:5, Lamentations 4:8,Lamentations 4:14). To see the people as the precious stones themselves does not diminish the significance of the destruction of the temple.⁶