### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **líthinos**, represented by `{{G3035}}`, is an adjective meaning **stony**, or **made of stone**. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible, used to describe objects constructed from this material.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3035}}` is used in both literal and symbolic contexts. Its literal use is seen in the account of the six **waterpots of stone** set for the Jewish manner of purifying [[John 2:6]]. Symbolically, it describes lifeless **idols of stone**, which people worshipped despite the fact they cannot see, hear, or walk [[Revelation 9:20]]. The word is also central to a powerful metaphor contrasting the "tables **of stone**" with the "fleshy tables of the heart," upon which the Spirit of the living God writes [[2 Corinthians 3:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G3035}}` in its context:
* `{{G4109}}` **pláx** (table): This word for a flat surface or tablet is paired directly with **líthinos** to identify the "**tables** of stone" [[2 Corinthians 3:3]].
* `{{G4560}}` **sárkinos** (fleshly): Defined as similar to flesh or soft, this word serves as the direct spiritual opposite of what is **stony**, describing the "fleshy **tables** of the heart" [[2 Corinthians 3:3]].
* `{{G1497}}` **eídōlon** (idol): Meaning an image for worship. In Revelation, objects **made of stone** are listed among the lifeless **idols** worshipped by unrepentant people [[Revelation 9:20]].
* `{{G3585}}` **xýlinos** (wooden): This adjective is used alongside **stony** in a list of materials, including gold, silver, and brass, from which false idols are made [[Revelation 9:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3035}}` comes from its consistent use in contrasts between the physical and the spiritual.
* **Lifelessness and Idolatry:** Objects **made of stone** are presented as examples of lifeless idols. The scripture explicitly notes these items lack the essential functions of life, such as sight, hearing, or movement, highlighting the futility of their worship [[Revelation 9:20]].
* **The Old versus the New:** The term is used to symbolize an external covenant. The "tables **of stone**" are directly contrasted with the "fleshy tables of the heart," signifying a transition from a written law to an internal reality brought by the Spirit of God [[2 Corinthians 3:3]].
* **Mundane and Functional:** The word's literal use to describe ordinary waterpots grounds it in the physical world [[John 2:6]]. This makes its metaphorical application as a symbol of spiritual hardness and lifelessness more powerful.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3035}}` moves from its simple, literal meaning of **made of stone** to carry significant symbolic weight. Though used only three times, it describes mundane vessels, lifeless idols, and the very tablets of the law. Its primary scriptural role is to create a sharp contrast between the hard, inanimate nature of stone and the living, spiritual reality of a heart transformed by God's Spirit.
TRV