Symbolic actions in the Bible often serve as powerful visual aids to convey divine messages, prophecies, or judgments. Stones, in particular, are frequently used in these symbolic acts, representing various theological and moral truths. The use of stones in symbolic actions underscores their significance in biblical narratives, serving as tangible reminders of God's covenant, judgment, and promises.

1. Jacob's Stone at Bethel

One of the earliest instances of symbolic action with stones is found in the account of Jacob. After his dream of a ladder reaching to heaven, Jacob took the stone he had used as a pillow and set it up as a pillar, anointing it with oil. This act symbolized the consecration of the place as Bethel, meaning "House of God." The stone served as a memorial of God's promise to Jacob and his descendants. Genesis 28:18-19 states, "Early the next morning, Jacob took the stone that he had placed under his head, and he set it up as a pillar. He poured oil on top of it, and he called that place Bethel, though previously the city had been named Luz."

2. The Twelve Stones at the Jordan River

When the Israelites crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land, God commanded Joshua to take twelve stones from the riverbed, one for each tribe of Israel, and set them up as a memorial at Gilgal. This symbolic action was to serve as a reminder of God's miraculous intervention in stopping the river's flow, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground. Joshua 4:20-22 records, "And there at Gilgal Joshua set up the twelve stones they had taken from the Jordan. He said to the Israelites, 'In the future, when your children ask their fathers, "What is the meaning of these stones?" you are to tell them, "Israel crossed the Jordan on dry ground."'"

3. The Stone of Witness

In Joshua 24, after renewing the covenant with the Israelites at Shechem, Joshua set up a large stone under an oak tree as a witness to the covenant. This stone symbolized the people's commitment to serve the Lord and reject foreign gods. Joshua 24:26-27 states, "And Joshua recorded these things in the Book of the Law of God. Then he took a large stone and set it up there under the oak that was near the sanctuary of the LORD. 'See!' said Joshua. 'This stone will be a witness against us, for it has heard all the words the LORD has spoken to us, and it will be a witness against you if you deny your God.'"

4. David and Goliath

The account of David and Goliath involves a symbolic action with stones that demonstrates God's power and deliverance. David, armed only with a sling and five smooth stones, defeated the giant Goliath, symbolizing God's ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles through faith. 1 Samuel 17:49 narrates, "Then David reached into his bag, took out a stone, and slung it, striking the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground."

5. The Stone of Ebenezer

In 1 Samuel 7, after a victory over the Philistines, Samuel set up a stone between Mizpah and Shen, naming it Ebenezer, meaning "stone of help." This stone symbolized God's assistance and faithfulness to Israel. 1 Samuel 7:12 states, "Afterward, Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, 'Thus far the LORD has helped us.'"

6. The Rejected Stone

In the New Testament, Jesus refers to Himself as the "stone the builders rejected," which has become the cornerstone. This symbolic action with stones highlights the rejection of Christ by the religious leaders and His ultimate role as the foundation of the Church. Matthew 21:42 quotes Jesus, "Jesus said to them, 'Have you never read in the Scriptures: "The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. This is from the Lord, and it is marvelous in our eyes"?'"

Throughout Scripture, stones are used in symbolic actions to convey messages of faith, covenant, judgment, and divine intervention. These actions serve as enduring reminders of God's presence and promises to His people.