Topical Encyclopedia Hewn stones, also referred to as cut stones, hold significant importance in biblical narratives and ancient Israelite culture. These stones, shaped and smoothed by human hands, were used in various construction projects, including altars, buildings, and monuments. The process of hewing stones involved chiseling and cutting to achieve a desired shape and size, reflecting both human skill and divine instruction.Biblical References and Usage 1. Construction of Altars and Temples: Hewn stones were often used in the construction of altars and sacred spaces. In Exodus 20:25, God instructs the Israelites, "But if you make an altar of stones for Me, you must not build it with cut stones; for if you use a chisel on it, you will defile it." This command highlights the distinction between natural stones and those altered by human tools, emphasizing the sanctity and purity required in worship. 2. Solomon's Temple: The construction of Solomon's Temple is a prominent example of the use of hewn stones. In 1 Kings 6:7, it is noted, "The temple was constructed using finished stones cut at the quarry, so that no hammer or chisel or any other iron tool was heard in the temple while it was being built." This meticulous preparation underscores the reverence and care taken in building a dwelling place for God. 3. Symbolism and Significance: Hewn stones symbolize human effort and craftsmanship in service to God. They represent the collaboration between divine guidance and human obedience. The use of hewn stones in sacred architecture signifies the permanence and stability of God's covenant with His people. 4. Prohibitions and Exceptions: While hewn stones were used in temple construction, there were specific prohibitions against their use in certain altars, as seen in Exodus 20:25. This distinction serves as a reminder of the need for purity and the avoidance of human pride in worship practices. 5. Historical and Archaeological Context: Archaeological findings in the ancient Near East reveal the widespread use of hewn stones in construction. These stones were often quarried locally and transported to building sites, reflecting the technological advancements and labor-intensive processes of the time. Theological Implications The use of hewn stones in biblical contexts invites reflection on the relationship between human creativity and divine command. It illustrates the balance between utilizing God-given talents and adhering to His instructions. The careful preparation and use of these stones in sacred spaces serve as a metaphor for the spiritual preparation required in approaching God. In summary, hewn stones in the Bible are more than mere building materials; they are imbued with spiritual significance and reflect the intersection of divine will and human action. Their use in biblical narratives underscores themes of obedience, reverence, and the pursuit of holiness in the worship of God. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 34:1And the LORD said to Moses, Hew you two tables of stone like to the first: and I will write on these tables the words that were in the first tables, which you brake. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 10:1 1 Kings 5:17 1 Kings 6:36 1 Kings 7:9 2 Kings 12:12 2 Kings 22:6 1 Chronicles 22:2 2 Chronicles 34:11 Lamentations 3:9 Greek 2998. latomeo -- to hew out (stones) ... stones. Word Origin from a comp. of laas (a stone) and temno (to cut) Definition to hew out (stones) NASB Word Usage hewn (2). hew. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2998.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 1496. gazith -- a cutting, hewing... a cutting, hewing NASB Word Usage cut (1), cut stone (2), cut stones (1), hewn (1), hewn stone (1), smooth stones (1), stone cut (2), well-hewn stone (1). ... /hebrew/1496.htm - 6k Library The Great Mysteries in the Building of the Militant and Triumphant ... The Best of All, God is with Us The Stony Heart Removed Christ Glorified as the Builder of his Church John i. 24, 25. Of the Baptism of John, that of Elijah, and that ... Matt. Iii. 7 Delivered from Prison Psalm XCVI. Comparison of the Statements of the Four Evangelists Respecting ... In Jerusalem when Herod Reigned Resources What does the Bible say about stoning? | GotQuestions.orgIs there any spiritual significance to birthstones? | GotQuestions.org What was the purpose of Stonehenge? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Stones of Christ, "A Tested Stone" "A Precious Stone" "A Sure Foundation, " Stones of Christ, the Water of Life Stones of Christ's Rejection, the Rejected Conerstone Stones of Temptation, "Stone of Stumbling" Stones of the Impenitent Heart Stones of the Witness of the Spirit, the White Stone Stones used for Closing Graves Stones used for Weighing (Margin) Stones used in Building Altars Stones: Commandments Engraved Upon Stones: Great, As Landmarks (Some Hebrew Mss Have "Abel") Stones: Great, in Solomon's Temple Stones: Hewers (Stone-Cutters) of Stones: Magnificent, in Herod the Great's Temple Stones: Precious in the Breastplate and Ephod Stones: Precious in the Crowns of Kings Stones: Precious: Exported from Sheba Stones: Precious: Partial Catalogue of Stones: Precious: Seen in the Foundation of the New Jerusalem in John's Apocalyptic Vision Stones: Precious: Voluntary offerings of, by the Israelites for the Breastplate and Ephod Stones: Prepared in the Quarries Stones: Symbolical of the Kingdom of Christ Stones: The Law of Moses Written Upon Stones: Thrown Upon Accursed Ground Related Terms |
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