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Unveiling the Word

Understanding the Greek word λίθος (lithos) is crucial for biblical studies due to its frequent appearance and rich symbolism in both the Old and New Testaments. Appearing first in Matthew 3:9, λίθος means “stone” or “rock.” Stones in ancient Jewish and Greek cultures carried significant spiritual, cultural, and practical meanings. In the New Testament, the word λίθος is often used metaphorically to represent strength, foundation, or even a stumbling block. Exploring this word can reveal deep insights into scriptural themes of judgment, faith, and the Messiah’s role as the cornerstone.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: λίθος (lithos) [pronunciation: LEE-thos].

Etymology: The word λίθος comes from ancient Greek with no clear etymological origin, although it has been used consistently in Greek literature and religious texts to refer to stones or rocks.

Part of Speech: Noun. λίθος is a masculine noun and follows the standard Greek declension patterns for nouns. It is typically used in contexts involving physical stones, rocks, or metaphors for concepts like strength or obstacle.

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Defining Meanings

1. Stone: The primary meaning of λίθος is “stone,” referring to any rock or pebble used in construction, tools, or weapons. It is the most straightforward interpretation of the word, frequently found in both secular and religious Greek texts.
2. Building Stone: Another usage of λίθος is in the context of a “building stone.” In the New Testament, this usage is especially significant in describing Jesus as the “chief cornerstone” of faith, as seen in verses like Ephesians 2:20 and 1 Peter 2:6.
3. Metaphorical Use: λίθος is also employed metaphorically to represent obstacles, stumbling blocks, or foundational elements in theological discussions. For example, Jesus refers to Himself as a stone that the builders rejected but has become the cornerstone (Matthew 21:42).

Exploring Similar Words

1. πέτρα (petra) [pronunciation: PEH-tra]: Meaning “rock” or “large stone.” While πέτρα often signifies a large, immovable rock, λίθος can refer to smaller stones or those used for specific purposes like building or punishment.
2. χάλκωμα (chalkoma) [pronunciation: KHAL-ko-mah]: This word means “bronze” or “copper,” used in the sense of a hard substance. Unlike λίθος, which is naturally occurring, χάλκωμα refers to a metal that needs to be extracted and processed.
3. σκύβαλον (skubalon) [pronunciation: SKOO-ba-lon]: Meaning “refuse” or “dung.” Though different in literal meaning, it is metaphorically contrasted with λίθος in passages where stones symbolize value or foundational strength, as opposed to something worthless.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a noun, λίθος follows the second declension pattern in Greek:

Case, Number, Gender:

• Singular: Nom. λίθος, Gen. λίθου, Dat. λίθῳ, Acc. λίθον
• Plural: Nom. λίθοι, Gen. λίθων, Dat. λίθοις, Acc. λίθους
• Gender: Masculine

Declension: λίθος is a second-declension masculine noun, which is typical of nouns ending in -ος. It has both singular and plural forms depending on the grammatical context.

For a more detailed exploration of Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

In Biblical lexicons, λίθος is examined in contexts ranging from literal stones to symbolic references of spiritual importance. The word appears in various New Testament narratives to signify both physical objects, like the stones used to build altars or to stone someone, and metaphors, such as the “living stones” that represent believers in the church (1 Peter 2:5). Lexicons often highlight the theological implications of λίθος, such as its use in illustrating the rejection of Jesus by the Jewish leaders and His ultimate establishment as the cornerstone of a new spiritual foundation.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Matthew 3:9 – “And do not presume to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father,’ for I tell you, God is able from these stones [λίθων] to raise up children for Abraham.”
2. 1 Peter 2:5 – “You also, like living stones [λίθοι], are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.”
3. Matthew 21:42 – “Jesus said to them, ‘Have you never read in the Scriptures: “The stone [λίθος] that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone”?’”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word λίθος is foundational in understanding numerous theological concepts and historical contexts within the New Testament and classical literature. From literal stones used in building or punishment to metaphorical uses describing spiritual realities, λίθος provides a multi-faceted lens through which one can explore Biblical narratives and their broader implications.

Did You Know?

• Fact 1: In ancient Israel, stones were commonly used for constructing altars, signifying a place of worship and sacrifice.
• Fact 2: The concept of Jesus as the cornerstone (λίθος) is a significant metaphor in Christian theology, symbolizing the foundation of faith.
• Fact 3: In Greek literature, λίθος could be used to describe anything from literal stones to symbols of endurance and permanence.