Old Testament
Psalms 118:22
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The stone which the builders refused has become the head stone of the corner.
Compare translations
The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner.
What Psalms 118:22 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse uses the metaphor of a stone to illustrate how something that was initially rejected can become the most important part of a structure. In ancient building practices, the cornerstone was crucial for stability and alignment. Here, the 'stone' symbolizes Jesus Christ, who was rejected by many during His time but ultimately became the foundation of faith for believers. This verse highlights the theme of redemption and the unexpected ways in which God works. It reminds us that what may seem insignificant or unworthy can be transformed into something vital and powerful. The builders represent those who fail to recognize the value of what they dismiss, emphasizing the importance of discernment in our judgments. This verse encourages us to look beyond appearances and societal opinions, recognizing that true worth often lies in the unexpected.
How to apply Psalms 118:22 to your life
In our lives, we may encounter situations or people that are overlooked or dismissed by others. This verse encourages us to recognize the potential in those we might initially reject. By embracing the overlooked, we can discover new opportunities and deepen our understanding of God's work in the world.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Psalms 118:22
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Psalms 118:22
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 118:22 mean?
Psalms 118:22 means that something or someone initially rejected can become essential and foundational. It uses the metaphor of a stone to illustrate how Jesus, who was rejected, became the cornerstone of faith.
What is the significance of the cornerstone in Psalms 118:22?
The cornerstone is significant because it represents the most important part of a structure, providing stability and alignment. In this verse, it symbolizes Jesus Christ, highlighting His vital role in faith despite being rejected by many.
How does Psalms 118:22 relate to themes of rejection and redemption?
Psalms 118:22 relates to rejection and redemption by showing that what is dismissed can become crucial. It emphasizes that God can transform the overlooked into something powerful and essential.
What does the phrase 'builders refused' mean in Psalms 118:22?
The phrase 'builders refused' refers to those who fail to recognize the value of something or someone. In this context, it highlights how people rejected Jesus, not seeing His true importance.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.