The meaning of “ἀκρογωνιαῖος”
Understanding akrogōniaîos reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
chief corner. - belonging to the extreme corner
ἀκρογωνιαῖος
chief corner. - belonging to the extreme corner
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Ephesians 2:20 | “And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; ” Word: ἀκρογωνιαῖος (akrogōniaîos) | |
| 1 Peter 2:6 | “Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.” Word: ἀκρογωνιαῖος (akrogōniaîos) |
Theological Word Study: Cornerstone
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Corner, cornerstone
The Hebrew pinnah (פִּנָּה) means corner or cornerstone—the foundational stone that determines a building's alignment. 'The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner' (Psalm 118:22).
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Cornerstone
The Greek akrogoniaios (ἀκρογωνιαῖος) means chief corner. Christ is the cornerstone: 'Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone' (Ephesians 2:20), upon whom the whole building of God's people rests.