The commandments of God written on stone tablets
The stone can also refer to the commandments of God written on stone tablets, as well as the covenant represented by standing stones in ancient Hebrew culture. Both are deeply symbolic in the biblical narrative and carry significant theological meanings.
1. The Commandments on Stone Tablets
- Symbolism of the Stone Tablets:
- The Ten Commandments, given to Moses on Mount Sinai, were inscribed by God on stone tablets (Exodus 24:12; 31:18). The use of stone here symbolizes the permanence, durability, and unchangeable nature of God’s law. Stone, being a material that endures, reflects the enduring nature of God’s commandments—they are meant to last forever and are not subject to change.
- Covenant with Israel:
- The stone tablets also symbolize the covenant between God and the Israelites. The commandments form the core of this covenant, outlining the terms of the relationship between God and His people. The physical act of carving these laws into stone is a powerful representation of God’s covenant being etched into the very fabric of their communal life.
- Connection to the “Stone of Offense“:
- There’s an interesting connection to the concept of a “stone of offense” here. The law itself, while holy and good, can become a stumbling block for those who reject it or fail to live by it. Paul reflects on this in the New Testament, where he talks about how the law, intended to bring life, can instead bring death when it leads to the recognition of sin without the accompanying grace (Romans 7:10-11).
2. Covenant Carved in Standing Stones
- Standing Stones as Memorials:
- In ancient Israel, standing stones (Hebrew: matzevot, מַצֵּבוֹת) were often set up as memorials to mark significant events, covenants, or encounters with God. For instance, Jacob set up a stone pillar after his dream at Bethel as a memorial to his covenant with God (Genesis 28:18-22). Similarly, after crossing the Jordan River, Joshua set up twelve stones as a memorial of God’s faithfulness (Joshua 4:1-9).
- Symbolism of Standing Stones:
- These standing stones served as tangible reminders of God’s promises, acts of deliverance, and the commitments made by the people. They were meant to be visible signs that would remind future generations of their history and the covenants made with God. The enduring nature of stone made it an appropriate material for such long-lasting memorials.
- Relation to the Covenant:
- Just as the stone tablets represented the covenant in written form, standing stones symbolized the physical manifestation of the covenant in the landscape of Israel. They marked the sacredness of the promises made and the faithfulness expected in return. The stones were witnesses to the covenant, standing as silent yet powerful reminders of the people’s relationship with God.
Interconnected Symbolism
- Stone as a Unifying Symbol:
- Both the stone tablets and the standing stones underscore the central role of stone in representing the enduring nature of God’s law and covenant. Whether as commandments or memorials, these stones were meant to be unchanging witnesses to God’s relationship with His people.
- Potential as a “Stone of Offense“:
- Interestingly, these stones, while representing divine law and covenant, could also become stumbling blocks (stones of offense) if the people failed to live up to the covenant. The very commandments that were intended to guide and protect could cause one to stumble if ignored or disobeyed. Similarly, the standing stones, meant to remind the people of their covenant, could stand in judgment against them if they turned away from God.
Conclusion
Yes, the stone can refer to the commandments of God written on stone tablets and the covenant carved in standing stones. Both serve as powerful symbols of God’s enduring relationship with His people. However, they also carry the potential to become “stones of offense” if the covenant is not upheld, illustrating how the very elements of God’s law and promises, meant for guidance and blessing, can become stumbling blocks when not followed.
