Definition and Description:
Dressed stone, also known as hewn stone, refers to stones that have been shaped, smoothed, or cut to specific dimensions for use in construction. This process involves chiseling or cutting the stone to achieve a desired size and finish, making it suitable for building purposes. Dressed stones are often used in the construction of altars, temples, and other significant structures in biblical times.

Biblical References:

1. Construction of Altars:
In the Old Testament, the use of dressed stones is specifically mentioned in the context of building altars. God instructed the Israelites to construct altars using uncut stones to maintain their purity and simplicity. In Exodus 20:25 , it is written, "Now if you make an altar of stones for Me, you must not build it with stones shaped by tools, for if you use a chisel on it, you will defile it." This command underscores the importance of using natural, unaltered materials in worship, emphasizing humility and obedience to divine instructions.

2. Solomon's Temple:
The construction of Solomon's Temple is a notable example of the use of dressed stones. The temple, a central place of worship for the Israelites, was built with great precision and care. In 1 Kings 6:7 , it is stated, "The temple was constructed using finished stones cut at the quarry, so that no hammer or chisel or any other iron tool was heard in the temple while it was being built." This passage highlights the meticulous preparation and reverence involved in the temple's construction, ensuring that the site remained sacred and undisturbed by the noise of tools.

3. Symbolism and Significance:
Dressed stones in the Bible often symbolize human effort and craftsmanship. While they are used in significant constructions, the preference for uncut stones in altars suggests a theological principle that human intervention should not alter what God has created. This principle can be seen as a call to preserve the sanctity and purity of worship, relying on God's creation rather than human modification.

4. Historical Context:
In ancient Near Eastern cultures, dressed stones were a sign of advanced architectural techniques and were often used in the construction of palaces, fortifications, and religious edifices. The Israelites' use of dressed stones in certain contexts reflects their interaction with surrounding cultures and their adoption of contemporary building practices, while still adhering to specific divine commandments.

Theological Implications:
The use of dressed stones in biblical narratives serves as a reminder of the balance between human creativity and divine command. While God endowed humanity with the ability to shape and create, there are instances where divine instructions call for restraint and adherence to God's original design. This balance is a recurring theme in Scripture, where human ingenuity is celebrated, yet always within the boundaries set by God.

Conclusion:
Dressed stones, as mentioned in the Bible, carry both practical and symbolic meanings. They represent the skill and labor involved in construction, while also serving as a reminder of the importance of following divine instructions in worship and life. Through the use of dressed stones, biblical texts convey lessons about obedience, reverence, and the relationship between human effort and divine will.