Topical Encyclopedia Corner-pillars, also referred to as cornerstones or foundation stones, hold significant architectural and symbolic importance in biblical texts. These structures are often mentioned in the context of construction, stability, and strength, serving as essential components in the building of temples, palaces, and other significant edifices. In the ancient Near Eastern context, corner-pillars were crucial for the structural integrity of a building, ensuring that the weight and balance were properly distributed.Biblical References and Symbolism The concept of the cornerstone is richly symbolic in the Bible, often representing strength, foundation, and the essential nature of a structure. In the Old Testament, corner-pillars are mentioned in the context of Solomon's Temple and other significant constructions. For instance, in 1 Kings 7:21, the two pillars named Jachin and Boaz are described as being set up at the porch of the temple, symbolizing stability and strength: "He set up the pillars at the portico of the temple. The pillar to the south he named Jachin, and the pillar to the north he named Boaz." In a metaphorical sense, the cornerstone is used to describe the Messiah in prophetic literature. Isaiah 28:16 states, "So this is what the Lord GOD says: 'See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation; the one who believes will never be shaken.'" This passage highlights the cornerstone as a symbol of divine assurance and the foundation of faith. New Testament Fulfillment The New Testament writers frequently draw upon the imagery of the cornerstone to describe Jesus Christ, emphasizing His foundational role in the faith and the Church. In Ephesians 2:20, Paul writes, "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone." This passage underscores the belief that Christ is the essential foundation upon which the Church is built, uniting believers and providing spiritual stability. Similarly, in 1 Peter 2:6-7, the apostle Peter references the prophecy from Isaiah, affirming Jesus as the cornerstone: "For it stands in Scripture: 'See, I lay in Zion a stone, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who believes in Him will never be put to shame.' To you who believe, then, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, 'The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.'" Theological Implications The imagery of the cornerstone carries profound theological implications, particularly in understanding the nature of Christ and His role in salvation history. As the cornerstone, Jesus is seen as the essential element of God's redemptive plan, providing the foundation for the Church and the faith of believers. This metaphor also emphasizes the unity and coherence of the Christian community, built upon the teachings of the apostles and prophets, with Christ as the unifying cornerstone. In summary, corner-pillars in the biblical context serve as both literal and metaphorical symbols of strength, stability, and foundational truth. They point to the enduring nature of God's promises and the central role of Christ in the life of the believer and the Church. Concordance Corner-pillars (1 Occurrence)Psalms 144:12 Thesaurus Corner-pillars (1 Occurrence)Corner-pillars. Corner-gate, Corner-pillars. Corners . Multi-Version Concordance Corner-pillars (1 Occurrence). Psalms ... /c/corner-pillars.htm - 6k Grown-up (1 Occurrence) Fashioned (22 Occurrences) Corner-gate (3 Occurrences) Corner-stone (10 Occurrences) Cornerstone (13 Occurrences) Corners (56 Occurrences) Tabernacle (333 Occurrences) Resources What was Herod's temple? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the importance of the Dead Sea in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to lean not on your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5-6)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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