What Does Stone Symbolize in the Bible: Exploring the Meaning Behind Biblical References to Stones

Throughout the Bible, stones have always been known as a symbol of strength, stability and permanence. They are often mentioned in various contexts, ranging from describing the power and might of God himself, to representing the foundations of faith and the steadfastness of believers. Stones carry a great deal of meaning in the Bible, and it is fascinating to explore the different ways in which they are used as a metaphor for all sorts of things.

From the beginning of the Old Testament to the end of the New Testament, stones are referenced countless times. For example, the famous story of David and Goliath involves a small stone being used to defeat a seemingly invincible giant. Similarly, the Ten Commandments were written on tablets of stone, demonstrating the immutable nature of God’s laws. Throughout the Bible, stones carry a sense of weight and gravity that signifies an important and durable concept.

All in all, the significance of stones in the Bible is immense and multi-layered. When we look deeper into their meaning and symbolism, we can see that stones speak to something essential about God and his relationship to humanity. Whether they are used to represent strength, stability, or the foundational nature of our faith, stones serve as a powerful reminder of the timeless truths at the heart of Christianity.

Foundation of the Temple

In the Bible, stones often symbolize strength, stability, and durability. The most prominent reference to stones in the Bible is in the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, where they were used as the foundation.

  • The foundation of the Temple was made up of massive stones that were cut and quarried to fit together perfectly.
  • These stones were so massive that they could only be moved into place with the help of large machines or complex systems of pulleys and ropes.
  • The foundation stones were carefully measured and cut to ensure that the Temple was perfectly level and stable.

The use of stones as the foundation of the Temple shows that God’s house was built on a solid, immovable foundation. This foundation is a metaphor for our faith. Just as the foundation of the Temple was solid and unchanging, our faith in God should be stable and unwavering.

The Temple also serves as a reminder of the importance of building our lives on a strong foundation. With a strong foundation, we can withstand the challenges of life and remain steadfast in our faith. We must remember that the foundation of our faith is not only important for our own lives but also for future generations.

In summary, the foundation of the Temple symbolized the importance of a solid, immovable foundation for God’s house. It serves as a reminder of the importance of building our lives on a strong foundation and remaining steadfast in our faith.

The Ten Commandments

The Ten Commandments are found in the Book of Exodus 20:1-17 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21. This set of laws is perhaps the most well-known and recognized in the Bible, representing God’s covenant with His people.

What does Stone Symbolize in the Bible: The Ten Commandments

  • The Ten Commandments were written on two stone tablets, which symbolize permanence and strength. Stones were often used in the Bible to represent endurance and the unchanging nature of God’s Word. The fact that they were written on two tablets also represents the balance between God’s love and justice.
  • When Moses received the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai, he was directed to write them down on stone tablets as a lasting reminder of God’s laws. These tablets were then placed in the Ark of the Covenant, which was carried by the Israelites as they traveled through the desert.
  • Interestingly, the tablets were not the only thing made of stone in this symbolic story. The mountain itself was also a significant element, as it represents God’s power and majesty. The stone tablets were a physical reminder of the moment when God spoke to Moses on the mountaintop, revealing His divine plan for His people.

Why were the Ten Commandments Written on Stone?

The choice of stone as the material for the Ten Commandments was no accident. It was a deliberate choice made by God to emphasize the enduring nature of His laws. Unlike scrolls or other materials that could easily be destroyed or lost, stone is solid and long-lasting, a fitting material to represent God’s eternal word.

The stone tablets also served as a symbol of the covenant between God and His people. By writing the Ten Commandments on stone, God was demonstrating His commitment to keeping His promises and upholding His side of the bargain. In turn, the Israelites were called to follow these laws and remain faithful to the covenant.

The Significance of Two Tablets

The fact that the Ten Commandments were written on two tablets is also significant. This mirrors the two main aspects of God’s nature – His justice and His mercy. The first tablet contains the Commandments that deal with our obligation to God, such as not worshiping other gods or taking the Lord’s name in vain. The second tablet contains the Commandments that deal with our relationship with others, such as not stealing or bearing false witness.

First Tablet Second Tablet
You shall have no other gods before Me. Honor your father and your mother.
You shall not make for yourself a carved image. You shall not murder.
You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain. You shall not commit adultery.
Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. You shall not steal.
Honor your father and your mother. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
You shall not murder. You shall not covet your neighbor’s house.
You shall not commit adultery. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male servant, or his female servant, or his ox, or his donkey, or anything that is your neighbor’s.

By writing the Ten Commandments on two tablets and dividing the laws into these two categories, God was emphasizing the need for balance and justice in our lives. We must strive to love and obey God, while also treating our fellow human beings with respect and kindness.

The Ten Commandments continue to be a powerful symbol of faith and morality to this day, reminding us of the enduring truths and principles that form the foundation of our beliefs.

Jacob’s Pillow Stone

The Jacob’s Pillow Stone, also known as the Bethel Stone, is a significant symbol in the Bible that represents Jacob’s connection with God. It is mentioned in Genesis 28:11-22 when Jacob, on his way to Haran, stopped at a place for the night where he laid his head on a stone and dreamt of a staircase that reached up to heaven. In the dream, God spoke to him and promised him that his offspring would be numerous and that they would inherit the land on which he was lying.

The Jacob’s Pillow Stone represents the covenant that God made with Jacob and his descendants. It is a symbol of God’s promise that he would bless them and protect them wherever they go. It is also a reminder of the importance of faith and trust in God’s plan for our lives.

Symbolism of the Number 3

  • The number 3 is a significant symbol in the Bible as it represents completeness and unity. It is associated with the Holy Trinity, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
  • The number 3 also symbolizes resurrection and new life. Jesus rose from the dead on the third day, which represents a new beginning and a rebirth of hope.
  • The number 3 can also signify strength and stability. The three-fold cord mentioned in Ecclesiastes 4:12 represents the strength of a union between three individuals.

The Importance of Stones in the Bible

Stones are a common symbol in the Bible and are often used to represent strength, stability, and permanence. They are also a reminder of God’s faithfulness and his promises to his people. In the Old Testament, the people of Israel often erected altars made of stones as a way of commemorating significant events and covenants with God. Stones were also used to mark graves and boundaries.

In the New Testament, Jesus is referred to as the “cornerstone” in 1 Peter 2:6-8, which signifies his importance as the foundation of our faith. Stones also play a significant role in the book of Revelation, where they are mentioned as the building blocks of the walls of the New Jerusalem.

Jacob’s Pillow Stone: A Symbol of God’s Faithfulness

The Jacob’s Pillow Stone serves as a powerful symbol of God’s faithfulness to his people. Despite Jacob’s many mistakes and missteps, God remained faithful to his promises and blessed him and his descendants. The stone represents the unbreakable bond that Jacob had with God and the covenant that God made with him. It is a reminder to us that no matter how many times we may falter, God will always be there for us, watching over us, and guiding us on our journey.

Symbolism Meaning
Completeness and unity The Holy Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
Resurrection and new life Jesus’s resurrection on the third day
Strength and stability The three-fold cord in Ecclesiastes 4:12

As we journey through life, the Jacob’s Pillow Stone reminds us to stay true to our faith and to trust in God’s plan for our lives. It is a symbol of hope and a reminder that no matter how difficult our circumstances may be, God is always with us, guiding us, and blessing us. Let us always remember to hold fast to our faith and trust in the power of God’s love and grace.

David’s Sling and Five Stones

The story of David and Goliath is one of the most well-known stories in the Bible. In this story, David, a young shepherd boy, faces off against the giant warrior Goliath. Goliath is armed with all kinds of weapons, while David only has a sling and five stones. Yet, David manages to defeat Goliath with just one of those stones.

  • Stone Symbolism: In Biblical times, stones were often used as a symbol of strength and stability. In the story of David and Goliath, the five stones that David carried with him symbolized his unwavering faith in God. He knew that God would give him the strength to defeat Goliath, even with only a sling and some stones.
  • The Number 5: The number five is also significant in this story. In the Bible, the number five is often associated with the concept of grace. David’s victory over Goliath was not just a feat of strength and skill, but a result of God’s grace and favor upon him.
  • David’s Courage: Another key theme in this story is courage. David was not afraid to face Goliath, even though he was much smaller and less equipped for battle. This courage came from his faith in God. He knew that he was not fighting alone, but that God was with him every step of the way.

Overall, the story of David and Goliath is a powerful symbol of faith, courage, and triumph over adversity. It reminds us that no matter how small or weak we may seem, we can achieve great things if we trust in God and believe in ourselves.

Here is a breakdown of the five stones that David used:

Stone # Meaning
Stone 1 Represents hope
Stone 2 Represents faith
Stone 3 Represents courage
Stone 4 Represents wisdom
Stone 5 Represents strength

David was not just randomly picking up stones to throw at Goliath. Instead, each stone had a specific meaning and significance, representing the qualities that he needed to defeat his enemy. This demonstrates the importance of having a plan and strategy, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

The Stone the Builders Rejected

The stone has many symbolic meanings in the Bible and is often used to refer to God and his relationship with his people. The phrase “the stone the builders rejected” is mentioned in several scriptures, including Psalm 118:22, Isaiah 28:16, and Matthew 21:42-44. In each passage, the stone represents something or someone that is rejected but ultimately becomes essential or significant. Let’s explore some of the symbolic meanings of the stone in the Bible.

  • The Cornerstone: In Psalm 118:22, the stone that the builders rejected becomes the cornerstone of a new structure. This is a reference to Jesus Christ, who was rejected by the religious leaders but became the foundation of the church.
  • The Rock: In 1 Corinthians 10:4, Paul calls Jesus Christ the “spiritual rock” that accompanied the Israelites in the wilderness. This rock provided water for the people, and in the same way, Jesus provides living water for those who believe in him. The rock is also used as a symbol of stability and strength, and believers are called to build their lives on the rock-solid foundation of faith in Jesus Christ.
  • The Foundation: Ephesians 2:20-22 states that Jesus Christ is the cornerstone and foundation of the church. This foundation is built on the teachings of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.

The stone that the builders rejected is a powerful symbol of the rejection that Jesus Christ faced during his time on earth. Despite being rejected by the religious leaders of his day, Jesus became the cornerstone of the church and the foundation of our faith. As believers, we are called to build our lives on the solid foundation of faith in Jesus Christ and to never reject the stone that the builders have rejected.

But the symbol of the stone is not just about Jesus Christ. It can also represent God’s judgment and justice. In Daniel 2:34-35, Daniel interprets King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream in which a stone cut out of a mountain, but not by human hands, smashes a statue made of gold, silver, bronze, iron, and clay, representing the kingdoms of the earth. The stone then becomes a great mountain that fills the whole earth. This vision represents the ultimate triumph of God’s kingdom over the kingdoms of the earth and the establishment of his eternal reign.

Symbolism Meaning
Cornerstone Jesus Christ, the foundation of the church
Rock Stability, strength, and living water
Foundation Jesus Christ and the teachings of the apostles and prophets
Judgment God’s ultimate triumph over the kingdoms of the earth

In conclusion, the symbol of the stone is rich with meaning in the Bible. It represents Jesus Christ, the cornerstone and foundation of the church, as well as God’s ultimate triumph and judgment over the kingdoms of the earth. As believers, we are called to build our lives on the solid foundation of faith in Jesus Christ and to embrace the stone that the builders rejected, for it has become the most important stone of all.

The Stone Cut Out Without Hands

There are numerous references to stones in the Bible, with each carrying a unique symbolic meaning. Perhaps the most significant mention of stones in the Bible is seen in the prophecy of “The Stone Cut Out Without Hands,” described in the book of Daniel.

The prophecy revolves around the image of a great statue made of different metals: gold, silver, bronze, iron, and clay. This statue is then destroyed by a stone that is cut out without hands, which ultimately grows into a great mountain that fills the whole earth.

The symbolic significance of this stone is immense, and it represents the Messiah, who will establish his kingdom on the earth. Let’s delve deeper into what the number 6 signifies in this prophecy.

The Number 6

  • The stone that was cut out without hands was the sixth thing revealed in Nebuchadnezzar’s dream. This means that it is the primary subject of the dream and is hence attached to the Messiah’s purpose and mission.
  • The sixth day of creation is when God created man in his image and likeness. Thus, the number 6 is associated with humanity and also represents the completion of God’s work. The stone’s coming, therefore, signifies God’s plan for humankind, which was completed on the day that man was created.
  • The number 6 is also known as the ‘number of man’ according to the Bible. It is a number that has both physical and spiritual meanings hence coinciding with the presence of the Messiah in the world, who is both God and man.

The symbolism of the Stone Cut Out Without Hands is both profound and multidimensional. It portrayed the Messiah’s birth and work during his stay on earth, up until his eventual death on the cross. The stone’s coming is thus depicted as an event that will culminate God’s plan for the world and usher in a new era where righteousness will reign.

The Significance of the Stone Cut Out Without Hands Prophecy

The Stone Cut Out Without Hands prophecy represents several things in the Bible, including:

  • The stone represents the Messiah and God’s chosen King, as seen in various biblical accounts, including Psalm 118:22 and Isaiah 28:16.
  • The stone’s capacity to become a great mountain represents the Messiah’s kingdom, which will be established and will ultimately spread over the whole world (Isaiah 2:2-4).
  • The stone’s cutting out without hands represents its supernatural origin, which signifies the divine source of the Messiah’s power and the fulfillment of Isaiah 7:14.

The Stone Cut Out Without Hands is a powerful symbol that points to the coming of the Messiah and the establishment of his kingdom. It is a promise of hope that reinforces the fact that God has not abandoned his creation and that he has a plan that will soon come to fruition.

Symbolism Significance
The Stone The Messiah and God’s chosen King
The Mountain The Messiah’s kingdom established on earth
Cutting Without Hands The Messiah’s supernatural origin and divine power

Understanding the symbolism of the Stone Cut Out Without Hands is paramount to understanding the significance of the Messiah’s coming, his mission, and his eventual establishment of the kingdom of God on earth.

The White Stone of Revelation

The white stone of Revelation is a symbol that has intrigued scholars and believers for centuries. In the book of Revelation, Jesus promises to give a white stone to anyone who overcomes. Many interpretations of the white stone have been proposed over the years, but most agree that it represents a reward or victory.

The Significance of the Number 7

The number 7 is a significant number in the Bible, and it is often associated with completeness or perfection. In the book of Revelation, the white stone is linked to the number 7 in a couple of ways.

  • Seven churches: In Revelation 2-3, Jesus addresses seven churches. Each church receives a specific message from Jesus, and each message is accompanied by a promise to the one who overcomes. In Revelation 2:17, the promise is to give the one who overcomes “a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows but he who receives it.” Some scholars argue that the seven churches represent stages in the history of the Christian church, and the white stone represents the final victory of the faithful at the end of time.
  • Seven Spirits of God: In Revelation 3:1 and 4:5, the seven spirits of God are mentioned. Some scholars believe that the seven spirits represent the fullness of the Holy Spirit and the perfection of God’s character. The white stone, then, could represent the victorious completion of God’s work in the world.

Interpretations of the White Stone

There have been many interpretations of the white stone over the years. Here are a few:

1. Salvation: Some interpreters believe that the white stone represents salvation or forgiveness. The new name written on the stone could represent the new identity the person receives upon salvation.

2. Approval: Others believe that the white stone represents approval or acceptance. In ancient times, white stones were often used to vote in elections or trials. A white stone represented a vote of approval, while a black stone represented a vote of condemnation. The white stone of Revelation could represent the believer’s approval or acceptance by God.

3. Rewards: Another interpretation of the white stone is that it represents rewards or blessings. In ancient Rome, white stones were often given as a reward to gladiators who had won a battle. The white stone of Revelation, then, could represent the believer’s reward for overcoming trials and temptations.

The White Stone and the Believer Today

Whatever the white stone represents, one thing is clear: it is a symbol of victory and reward. Believers can take comfort in the knowledge that if they remain faithful, they will receive a reward from Jesus. The exact nature of that reward is not important; what is important is that Jesus promises to give it to those who overcome.

Verse Promise Interpretation
Revelation 2:17 A white stone with a new name Salvation, approval, or reward
Revelation 3:12 A new name written on the believer Identity and relationship with God
Revelation 21:7 He who overcomes will inherit all things Complete victory and fulfillment

As believers navigate the challenges and trials of life, they can hold onto the promise of the white stone and the victory it represents. Jesus has overcome the world, and he promises to share that victory with all who put their trust in him.

The Cornerstone

In the Bible, the concept of the cornerstone is significant as it represents the foundation on which something is built. The cornerstone is the first stone placed in a building, and it sets the direction and alignment for the rest of the structure. In the Bible, Jesus Christ is referred to as the cornerstone, and this symbolism has significant theological implications.

The Number 8

  • The number 8 is significant in the Bible as it represents new beginnings, resurrection, and regeneration. This symbolism is first introduced in the story of Noah’s Ark, as the ark had 8 passengers who emerged from the flood to a new beginning.
  • Jesus’ resurrection took place on the 8th day, which marked the beginning of a new era and a new covenant between God and humanity. In this sense, the number 8 signifies spiritual rebirth and regeneration.
  • The 8th day is also the day of circumcision according to Jewish tradition, symbolizing the covenant between God and Abraham and the marking of the Israelites as God’s chosen people.

The Symbolism of Stone

Stone is a significant symbol in the Bible, representing strength, permanence, and stability. In the Old Testament, God is referred to as the “Rock” and the “Stone of Israel,” emphasizing His steadfastness and unchanging nature. In the New Testament, Jesus is also referred to as the “Rock,” emphasizing His role as the foundation and cornerstone of the Christian faith.

Stones were also used in the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, representing the importance of God as the cornerstone of the Israelite community. The use of stones in religious ceremonies and rituals was also common, symbolizing the permanence and strength of God’s covenant with His people.

The Cornerstone in Christian Theology

As mentioned earlier, in Christian theology, Jesus is referred to as the cornerstone, representing the foundation and anchor of the faith. In Ephesians 2:20, Paul writes, “Built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cornerstone.” This passage emphasizes the importance of Jesus as the cornerstone upon which the church is built.

Symbolism Meaning
Strength God’s strength and steadfastness
Permanence God’s unchanging nature and covenant
New Beginnings The number 8 signifying spiritual regeneration and resurrection
Foundation Jesus as the cornerstone and foundation of the Christian faith

The symbolism of stone and the cornerstone in the Bible represent the unchanging nature of God and the importance of His covenant with His people. The number 8 also signifies new beginnings and spiritual regeneration, emphasizing the transformative power of faith in God.

The Rolling Stone

The concept of the rolling stone is synonymous with the biblical account of the Stone that the builders rejected, which became the cornerstone. The story of the rolling stone is one of the most cited Biblical accounts that alludes to the symbolic use of stones in the scripture. In Matthew 21:42-44, Jesus tells the story of a landowner who leased his vineyard to tenants but was continually rejected by them when he sent his servants to collect the rent for his property. When he sent his son to collect the payment, they killed him with the hopes of claiming the property. The owner then comes and kills the tenants and leases the property to others. In this parable, Jesus alludes to how the cornerstone or the Stone that the builders rejected may be rejected. Still, ultimately it will become the cornerstone of God’s kingdom.

  • This parable highlights the symbolism of the rolling stone through the Stone that the builders rejected, which became the cornerstone. This is significant because the symbolism of the cornerstone is that it holds the entire structure, emphasizing its importance to the foundation.
  • The rolling stone also represents the transience of life on earth and how nothing lasts forever. The Bible makes numerous references to this fact, including Proverbs 27:24, “for riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations,” and James 4:14, which states, “why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist appeared for a little while and then vanishes.”
  • In Ezekiel 36:26, the Bible speaks of a time when God will replace the stone heart of the people with a new, living heart. This is significant because it speaks to the transformative power of God, where He removes the old, hard-heart and replaces it with a new heart that is receptive to His love and guidance.

Additionally, the rolling stone represents an unstable, constantly changing situation. Many translations of the Bible use the term ‘rolling stone’ to describe this situation. In Isaiah 28:16, the Bible states, “Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says: ‘Look! I am placing a foundation stone in Jerusalem, a firm and tested stone. It is a precious cornerstone, that is safe to build on. Whoever believes need never be shaken’.”

The symbolism of the rolling stone indicates that there are times in our lives when we must remain steadfast even in the most turbulent of situations. The cornerstone provides us stability, assurance, and protection as we navigate our way through life’s twists and turns.

Key Takeaways:
1. The rolling stone emphasizes the importance of the cornerstone and how it holds the entire structure together, emphasizing its significance to the foundation of our faith.
2. The stone that the builders rejected is often times what may become instrumental in the development of our faith. As such, we must always remain open to learning from these transitory moments.
3. The rolling stone represents the instability of life’s situations and emphasizes the importance of remaining steadfast in even the most turbulent of times.

Belshazzar’s Writing on the Wall Stone

Belshazzar was a Babylonian king who hosted a lavish feast for his courtiers. During the feast, he drank from vessels taken from the Jewish temple and praised the gods of gold, silver, bronze, iron, wood, and stone. Suddenly, a hand appeared and wrote on the wall of the palace. The words were spelled in Aramaic and read “Mene, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin.” The king called for his wise men and offered to clothe them in purple and make them the third ruler in the kingdom if they could interpret the writing. None were able to do so, but the prophet Daniel was eventually summoned and provided an interpretation.

  • The word ‘Mene’ meant that his reign was numbered and would soon come to an end.
  • The word ‘Tekel’ meant that he had been weighed in the balance and found wanting.
  • The word ‘Upharsin’ meant that his kingdom would be divided and given to the Medes and Persians.

Belshazzar did not heed the warnings, and that very night, his kingdom was invaded and he was killed. The hand writing on the wall is symbolic of the judgment of God that was about to befall the Babylonian kingdom.

Stone, in this story, symbolizes something permanent and set in stone, unalterable. It also represents the hardness of the heart of those who were defying God and praising false gods.

Symbolism of Stone in the Bible Biblical Reference
God as a solid foundation Psalm 118:22; Matthew 7:24-27
The stone rejected by the builders becoming the cornerstone Psalm 118:22; Acts 4:11; 1 Peter 2:7
The Ten Commandments being written on stone tablets Exodus 31:18; 1 Kings 8:9; Deuteronomy 5:22
Stone being used to symbolize Jesus as the rock of salvation Isaiah 28:16; Matthew 16:18; 1 Corinthians 10:4

Stone appears repeatedly in the Bible as a symbol of strength, durability, and permanence. It could also represent unbending will or morality, as well as a sense of reliability. The vision of Belshazzar’s writing on the wall of the palace is a grim reminder that nothing is permanent in the world, and that it’s important to remember what is significant in the short period of time that we have here on earth.

What Does Stone Symbolize in the Bible?

1. What is the significance of stones in the Bible?
In the Bible, stones symbolize strength, stability, and permanence. They represent unchanging truth and serve as a reminder of God’s covenant with His people.

2. What does the term “cornerstone” mean in the Bible?
The cornerstone is a foundation stone that is placed at the corner of a building. In the Bible, it represents Jesus Christ as the foundation of the faith and the cornerstone of salvation.

3. What is the meaning of the “stone of stumbling” in the Bible?
The “stone of stumbling” refers to Jesus Christ, who was rejected by many people but became the cornerstone of the faith. Those who reject Him stumble and fall.

4. What is the significance of the “rolling away of the stone” in the Bible?
The rolling away of the stone represents Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. It symbolizes the removal of the barrier between God and humanity.

5. What does the “stone tablet” symbolize in the Bible?
The stone tablet represents God’s law and commandments. Like the stone, the law is unchanging and serves as the foundation of God’s relationship with His people.

6. What is the significance of the “Bethel stone” in the Bible?
The Bethel stone represents the place where Jacob had a vision of a ladder extending from earth to heaven. It symbolizes the presence of God and the connection between heaven and earth.

7. What does the “white stone” symbolize in the Bible?
The white stone represents purity and victory over sin. It symbolizes the reward of eternal life that is given to those who remain faithful to God.

Thanks for Reading!

We hope this article has provided you with a better understanding of what stones symbolize in the Bible. Stones have many meanings and play an important role in the stories and teachings of the Bible. Be sure to check back for more informative articles on a variety of topics. Thanks for reading!