### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **gōnía**, represented by `{{G1137}}`, refers to an **angle, corner, or quarter**. It appears **9 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible. While it can denote a literal, physical corner, it is more often used figuratively to describe the extent of the world or to signify a position of chief importance, as in a cornerstone.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1137}}` has several distinct applications. It is used literally to describe the **corners** of the streets where hypocrites stand to pray, seeking to be seen by men [[Matthew 6:5]]. It is also used geographically to represent the entirety of the world, as when John sees four angels standing on the **four corners** of the earth [[Revelation 7:1]] or when nations are gathered from the **four quarters** of the earth [[Revelation 20:8]]. In Acts, the phrase "done in a **corner**" signifies something done in secret, in contrast to the public nature of the gospel [[Acts 26:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the meaning of **gōnía**:
* `{{G3037}}` **líthos** (a stone): This word is central to the most common use of `{{G1137}}`. The **stone** which the builders rejected becomes the head of the **corner** [[Matthew 21:42]].
* `{{G2776}}` **kephalḗ** (the head): This specifies the importance of the corner, identifying it as the **head** of the corner, or cornerstone, which is the foundational piece of the structure [[Mark 12:10]].
* `{{G1093}}` **gē** (earth): This word is used with `{{G1137}}` to express a global or cosmic scope, such as in the vision of the "four corners of the **earth**," signifying its boundaries [[Revelation 7:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1137}}` is most profoundly expressed through the concept of the cornerstone.
* **Christ as the Cornerstone:** In multiple gospels and epistles, Jesus is identified as the **stone** rejected by the builders who has become the "head of the **corner**" ([[Matthew 21:42]], [[Luke 20:17]], [[1 Peter 2:7]]). This establishes Christ as the essential foundation of the church, despite being disallowed by men.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The image of angels at the "four **corners** of the earth" holding back the winds illustrates God's complete control over the entire world and the forces within it [[Revelation 7:1]].
* **Public Proclamation:** The gospel is declared not to be an event done "in a **corner**" [[Acts 26:26]], underscoring that God's work of salvation through Christ is a public, historical truth intended for all, not a secret or hidden affair.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1137}}` moves from the simple meaning of a physical angle to a powerful theological symbol. It is used to define the boundaries of the physical world, to contrast public faith with private hypocrisy, and most importantly, to establish Christ's identity as the rejected but now exalted cornerstone of our faith. This word demonstrates how a common architectural term can be used to convey the foundational and all-encompassing nature of God's redemptive plan.
TRV