Stones. Besides the ordinary uses to which stones were applied, we may mention that large stones were set up to commemorate any remarkable event. Gen_28:18; Gen_35:14; Gen_31:45; Jos_4:9; 1Sa_7:12. Such stones were occasionally consecrated by anointing. Gen_28:18. Heaps of stones were piled up on various occasions, as in token of a treaty, Gen_31:47, or over the grave of some notorious offender. Jos_7:26; Jos_8:29; 2Sa_18:17.
The "white stone" noticed in Rev_2:17, has been, variously, regarded as referring to the pebble of acquittal used in the Greek courts; to the lot cast in elections in Greece; to both of these combined; to the stones in the high priest's breastplate; to the tickets presented to the victor, at the public games; or, lastly, to the custom of writing on stones.
The notice in Zec_12:3, of the "burdensome stone," is referred by Jerome to the custom of lifting stones as an exercise of strength, compare Sir_6:21; but it may equally well be explained of a large corner-stone as a symbol of strength. Isa_28:16.
Stones are used metaphorically to denote hardness or insensibility, 1Sa_25:37; Eze_11:19; Eze_36:26, as well as firmness or strength. Gen_49:24. The members of the Church are called "living stones," as contributing to rear that living Temple in which Christ, himself "a living stone," is the chief or head of the corner. Eph_2:20-22; 1Pe_2:4-8.
Smith's Bible Dictionary
By Dr. William Smith.Published in 1863