### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **akrogōniaîos**, represented by `{{G204}}`, refers to that which is at the extreme corner, translated as **chief corner**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is derived from ἄκρον (extreme) and γωνία (corner), and is used metaphorically to denote a position of supreme importance and structural integrity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G204}}` is applied exclusively to Jesus Christ in a foundational, architectural metaphor. In Ephesians, believers are described as being **built** `{{G2026}}` upon the **foundation** `{{G2310}}` of the apostles and prophets, with "Jesus Christ himself being the **chief corner** stone" [[Ephesians 2:20]]. In 1 Peter, the word appears in a quotation from **scripture** `{{G1124}}`, stating, "Behold, I lay in Sion a **chief corner** stone, **elect** `{{G1588}}`, **precious** `{{G1784}}`" [[1 Peter 2:6]]. Both instances highlight a role that is both foundational and unitive.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help construct the architectural metaphor surrounding `{{G204}}`:
* `{{G2310}}` **themélios** (foundation): Defined as "something put down, i.e. a substruction (of a building, etc.)," this term is used for the base upon which believers are built, with Christ as the cornerstone [[Ephesians 2:20]].
* `{{G2026}}` **epoikodoméō** (to build upon): This word means "to build upon, i.e. (figuratively) to rear up" and describes the action of constructing the spiritual house of believers upon the foundation and cornerstone [[Ephesians 2:20]].
* `{{G4396}}` **prophḗtēs** (prophet): This term for an "inspired speaker" is used to identify part of the foundation of the church, which Christ as the **chief corner** stone joins together [[Ephesians 2:20]].
* `{{G1124}}` **graphḗ** (scripture): Meaning "a document, i.e. holy Writ," it is the source cited in [[1 Peter 2:6]] that foretells the laying of the **chief corner** stone.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G204}}` is significant, establishing a key aspect of Christ's role.
* **Christ as the Unifying Structure:** The term illustrates Christ's role in joining together the foundational teaching of the apostles and prophets, creating a single, cohesive spiritual building [[Ephesians 2:20]].
* **Fulfillment of Scripture:** Its use in [[1 Peter 2:6]] explicitly frames Jesus as the fulfillment of prophetic **scripture** `{{G1124}}`, positioning him as a divinely appointed and long-awaited figure.
* **Divine Selection and Value:** The cornerstone is described as **elect** `{{G1588}}`, or chosen, and **precious** `{{G1784}}`, or valued, emphasizing Christ's supreme and honored status in God's plan of salvation [[1 Peter 2:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G204}}` is a specific and powerful term used to define the position of Jesus Christ in relation to the church. Though rare, it conveys his essential role as the unifier of the faith's foundation, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the divinely chosen, precious element that gives the entire structure its integrity and form.
TRV