Psalms 118:22

The stone [which] the builders refused is become the head [stone] of the corner.

The stone {H68} which the builders {H1129} refused {H3988} is become the head {H7218} stone of the corner {H6438}.

The very rock that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone!

The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.

The stone which the builders rejected Is become the head of the corner.

Psalm 118:22 proclaims a profound truth about divine reversal and exaltation: "The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner." This verse, originally part of a psalm of thanksgiving, carries immense prophetic significance, particularly in Christian theology.

Context

Psalm 118 is a joyful Hallel Psalm, traditionally sung during major Jewish festivals like Passover. It celebrates God's steadfast love (Hebrew: hesed) and deliverance from adversaries. The "builders" likely represent the influential leaders, religious authorities, or even nations who, in their human wisdom, rejected something seemingly insignificant or unworthy. The "stone" could have originally referred to Israel, or a particular leader, whom God miraculously preserved and elevated despite opposition.

Key Themes

  • Divine Reversal and Sovereignty: The verse powerfully illustrates God's ability to overturn human judgment and elevate what is dismissed. It's a testament to His sovereign plan that often confounds human expectations.
  • Messianic Prophecy: This is arguably the most significant interpretation. Jesus Himself quoted this verse in Matthew 21:42, applying it to His own rejection by the religious leaders and His subsequent exaltation as the central figure of God's redemptive plan. The apostles, notably Peter, also explicitly applied this prophecy to Christ in Acts 4:11 and 1 Peter 2:7.
  • Rejection Leading to Exaltation: It highlights a recurring biblical pattern where God uses the rejected and the humble to accomplish His greatest purposes, demonstrating His power through perceived weakness.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "head stone of the corner" (Hebrew: ro'sh pinnah) refers to the most vital stone in a building's construction. This could be:

  • The foundational cornerstone, laid first, which determines the alignment and stability of the entire structure.
  • The capstone or keystone of an arch, which binds the whole arch together and supports the weight above.
  • Most commonly, it refers to the binding stone that joins two walls at a corner, providing crucial strength and precision for the building's integrity.

In any case, it is the indispensable stone, without which the structure cannot stand or be properly aligned. Its rejection by the "builders" suggests a profound misjudgment of its true worth and function.

Reflection and Application

For believers, Psalm 118:22 serves as a powerful reminder of the central and indispensable role of Jesus Christ. He is the chief cornerstone of the church, the foundation upon which all true faith is built. His rejection by the world's systems and powers did not diminish His ultimate authority; instead, it paved the way for His glorious resurrection and ascension, making Him the head of all things (Colossians 1:18). This verse encourages us to place our trust not in human wisdom or popular opinion, but in God's chosen "stone." It also offers comfort to those who feel rejected or undervalued, reminding them that God often uses the overlooked for His greatest plans.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Luke 20:17

    And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner?

  • Matthew 21:42

    Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?

  • Acts 4:11

    This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.

  • 1 Peter 2:4

    ¶ To whom coming, [as unto] a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, [and] precious,

  • 1 Peter 2:8

    And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, [even to them] which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.

  • Mark 12:10

    And have ye not read this scripture; The stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner:

  • Mark 12:11

    This was the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?

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