A weathered stone (Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29; Psalm 31:9-16)
Perhaps the psalmist is referring to limestone, important to ancient civilizations for construction and also as an agricultural and dietary aid.
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Before the “chief cornerstone” in Psalm 118 was seen by Christians as a prophetic word foreshadowing the preeminence of Jesus, it was simply a stone considered unfit for use. Perhaps the psalmist is referring to limestone, important to ancient civilizations across the world for construction and also as an agricultural and dietary aid. Considered a “soft” rock, limestone is composed primarily of calcium carbonate and shares the same basic composition as the shells and coral we find in the sea. While limestone is highly durable, it is also susceptible to erosion from mildly acidic rainwater.
