- published: 13 Jul 2012
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The cornerstone (or foundation stone) concept is derived from the first stone set in the construction of a masonry foundation, important since all other stones will be set in reference to this stone, thus determining the position of the entire structure.
Over time a cornerstone became a ceremonial masonry stone, or replica, set in a prominent location on the outside of a building, with an inscription on the stone indicating the construction dates of the building and the names of architect, builder and other significant individuals. The rite of laying a cornerstone is an important cultural component of eastern architecture and metaphorically in sacred architecture generally.
The origins of this tradition are vague but its presence in Judeo-Christian countries can be associated with one quotation from the Old Testament (Psalm 118:22) cited six times in the New Testament (Matthew 21:42,Mark 12:10, Luke 20:17, Acts 4:11, Ephesians 2:20 and 1 Peter 2:7)and Isaiah 28:16quoted by the writer of the Book of 1st Peter 1 Peter. The writer of the Book of Ephesians makes clear that Jesus is the cornerstone, of a faith rather than a building, referred to in the Old Testament Ephesians 2:20 .
The changing world was on it’s way
And now we know it’s gone today
Suddenly it’s thunder pure
Overriding our industrial allure
‘Cause the vision that we had is burning great holes in the sky
The angels came and shook their heads and cried
What have they done to paradise?
One world revolving ‘round the sun
One choice affecting everyone
One Word fashioned into stone
One Voice singing out alone
Be my harbour and my home
Be my strength my Cornerstone
I remember dreaming as a boy
Of living in the milk and honey land of joy
The boy he soon became a man
The milk and honey dream became a no man’s land
And the vision that we had keeps burning great holes in the sky
The angels came and shook their heads and cried
What have they done to paradise?
One world revolving ‘round the sun
One choice affecting everyone
One Word fashioned into stone
One Voice singing out alone
Be my harbour and my home
Be my strength my Cornerstone
Please don’t leave me here alone