Brief Overview of ἀκρογωνιαῖος (G204)

The Greek word ἀκρογωνιαῖος (akrogoniaios) translates to “cornerstone” or “chief cornerstone.” It refers to the principal stone placed at the corner of a building, which is essential for aligning the structure and ensuring stability. In a metaphorical sense, it signifies something fundamental or foundational.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• G204 ἀκρογωνιαῖος (akrogoniaios): Strong’s Concordance defines ἀκρογωνιαῖος as “cornerstone.” It is used to denote the crucial stone in the corner of a building, which provides the alignment and stability necessary for the structure. This term appears in contexts where Jesus Christ is metaphorically described as the foundational stone of the Church.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer’s Lexicon describes ἀκρογωνιαῖος as “cornerstone,” particularly the chief or principal stone in the corner of a building. It emphasizes the importance of this stone for the structural integrity and alignment of the entire building. In Christian texts, it often refers to Christ as the essential foundation of the Church.

1. Brown-Driver-Briggs (BDB) Lexicon:

• The BDB Lexicon includes ἀκρογωνιαῖος as “cornerstone,” focusing on its role as the cornerstone of a building. It highlights its significance in construction and, in biblical contexts, its symbolic representation of Christ as the foundational element of the Church.

1. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon:

• The LSJ Lexicon defines ἀκρογωνιαῖος as “cornerstone” or “chief cornerstone,” indicating its role in the construction of buildings as the crucial stone for proper alignment. In Christian texts, it metaphorically represents Christ as the central and unifying foundation of the faith.

In summary, ἀκρογωνιαῖος refers to the “cornerstone” or “chief cornerstone,” a critical stone used in construction for alignment and stability. In a biblical and metaphorical context, it represents Christ as the fundamental and foundational element of the Church and Christian faith.