WHY DOES GOD ASSOCIATE HUMAN BEINGS & TRIBES WITH STONES?

(MY QUOTE)

”You are the star, with dominion over all the heavenly and earthly bodies.
Then, why is your destiny a hinge on the stars, stones, emeralds, and earthly elements?” — Philip Santus

A Bible verse that closely represents the themes of this quote—humanity’s connection to stones, stars, and earthly elements within divine purpose—is

Genesis 1:26:

“Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.'”

Explanation of Relevance

This verse speaks to humanity’s elevated status and dominion over earthly and cosmic elements as intended by God. In His image, humanity is set apart with a unique purpose and spiritual significance—suggesting a connection to both the heavenly (stars) and earthly (stones, elements) realms. It underscores that while human beings hold dominion, they are also interwoven with creation, both subject to and responsible for the world’s natural elements.

THE ACTUAL MEANING OF THE QUOTE AND ITS ARTICLE SIGNIFICANT:

This quote is rich with symbolic and philosophical layers. Let’s break down each part, offering insights, interpretations, and connections to Biblical symbolism and themes.

1. “Why does God associate human beings & tribes with stones?”

Explanation: In the Bible, stones often symbolize permanence, faith, and memory. God’s association of people with stones is seen in multiple ways: for example, the 12 stones representing the tribes of Israel on the High Priest’s breastplate, or how Jesus is referred to as the “cornerstone.” Stones are durable, foundational, and enduring—traits God encourages in His people.

Solution: Embrace qualities of resilience, stability, and spiritual strength, just as stones are unchanging. This could involve setting a personal “foundation” of faith and principles, anchoring yourself in beliefs that withstand life’s challenges.

Biblical Example 1: The Stones on the Breastplate of Judgment (Exodus 28:15-21). The High Priest’s breastplate bore 12 precious stones, each representing one of the tribes of Israel, signifying that God holds each tribe and individual as precious and unique.

Biblical Example 2: Peter as the Rock (Matthew 16:18). Jesus calls Peter the “rock” on which He will build His church, symbolizing strength, stability, and the foundation of faith.

2. “You are the star, with dominion over all the heavenly and earthly bodies.”

Explanation: This line implies a higher status for humanity. In Genesis, humans are given dominion over Earth, a privilege reflecting God’s desire for human beings to reflect His authority, care, and stewardship over creation. In the Bible, stars often symbolize guidance, illumination, and divine authority. This aligns with God’s view of humanity as unique beings, “a little lower than the angels” (Psalm 8:5) and entrusted with earthly dominion.

Solution: Recognize the responsibility that comes with dominion. Rather than seeing this as an invitation to dominate, it’s a call to act as stewards of the Earth and the people around us. Embrace qualities of leadership, guidance, and responsibility, reflecting the “light” you’re meant to bring to the world.

Biblical Example 1: The Creation Mandate (Genesis 1:26-28). God gives humans dominion over all living things, charging them with the care of His creation as an act of stewardship.

Biblical Example 2: Abraham’s Descendants as Stars (Genesis 15:5). God tells Abraham that his descendants will be as numerous as the stars, symbolizing not only quantity but their high status and blessing in God’s eyes.

3. “Then, why is your destiny a hinge on the stars, stones, emeralds, and earthly elements?”

Explanation: This question raises a mystery—why, despite human dominion, does humanity seem reliant on elements like stars (for guidance, e.g., the Star of Bethlehem), stones (symbols of remembrance and strength), and precious gems (used in divine service and worship)? The Bible often uses earthly elements to communicate spiritual truths, showing that physical objects can mirror heavenly realities. Stones and elements also remind humanity of its interconnectedness with creation, grounding humans in humility despite their divine purpose.

Solution: Seek meaning in the symbols and elements around you, seeing them as tools for spiritual alignment rather than superstitions. The elements are reminders of our relationship with both the Creator and creation, encouraging us to live humbly and with purpose. Recognize that while you have a powerful destiny, you’re also part of the larger, divinely created universe.

Biblical Example 1: The Star of Bethlehem (Matthew 2:1-2). The wise men followed the star to find Jesus, showing how heavenly signs guide human destinies within God’s plan.

Biblical Example 2: The Foundation Stones of New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:19-20). The New Jerusalem’s foundation includes precious stones symbolizing the eternal, solid nature of God’s promise and kingdom, emphasizing that earthly elements hold divine symbolism in God’s eyes.

Summary

This quote challenges us to consider both the unique status of humanity and the humility that comes from our ties to creation. While we may be stars—reflecting God’s light and holding dominion over creation—we are also shaped, symbolized, and influenced by the natural elements God designed.

In doing so, the quote suggests that our destiny isn’t just an exercise of power but a journey of faithfulness, humility, and stewardship. Embracing this means living with a deep awareness of our place in the grand design, using our “dominion” not for personal gain but for fostering connection, guidance, and resilience.

Certainly, here are five book recommendations that explore themes related to the symbolic connection between humanity, stones, stars, and divine elements. Each book examines how natural elements and spiritual principles intertwine in religious thought, focusing especially on Biblical perspectives and mystical interpretations.

1. “The Message of the Stones: Symbols and Their Meaning in the Bible” by Gila Svirsky

This book dives into the symbolism of stones in the Bible and their significance for representing the tribes of Israel, divine promises, and the qualities God desires in His people. Svirsky explores how these symbols teach us about stability, resilience, and spiritual grounding.

2. “The Lost Language of Symbolism” by Harold Bayley

Bayley examines the symbolic language across cultures and religions, with a focus on the meaning of stones, stars, and other natural elements as spiritual symbols. This book offers a broader historical perspective but often returns to Biblical symbolism, showing how these elements serve as keys to understanding divine intention.

3. “The Secret Teachings of All Ages” by Manly P. Hall

In this esoteric classic, Hall explores the symbolism of stars, stones, and other natural elements within the context of spiritual traditions, including Christianity. This book highlights how these symbols relate to spiritual enlightenment and cosmic purpose, touching on humanity’s “dominion” and its reliance on creation.

4. “Symbols of Sacred Science” by René Guénon

Guénon’s book provides an in-depth look at the spiritual and mystical meanings of elements like stones and stars in sacred traditions, including Biblical interpretation. It delves into the connection between material elements and metaphysical realities, explaining how these symbols reveal deeper truths about human destiny.

5. “God and the Cosmos: Divine Activity in Space, Time, and History” by Harry Lee Poe and Jimmy H. Davis

This book examines the relationship between God, the universe, and humanity’s role within it, focusing on themes of divine authority, stewardship, and spiritual symbolism. It also discusses how Biblical imagery—stars, stones, and earthly elements—intertwines with humanity’s divine purpose and God’s broader plan.

These books will provide deep insights into the symbolic framework of the Bible and help in understanding why humanity’s connection with stones, stars, and elements plays a significant role in spiritual meaning and purpose.