Strong's Lexicon martsea: Awl Original Word: מַרְצֵעַ Word Origin: Derived from the root רָצַע (ratsá), meaning "to pierce" or "to bore." Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: There is no direct Greek equivalent for "martsea" in the Strong's Greek Dictionary, as the concept is specific to Hebrew cultural practices. However, the idea of servitude and commitment can be related to Greek terms like δοῦλος (doulos, G1401), meaning "servant" or "slave." Usage: The term "martsea" refers to an awl, a pointed tool used for piercing holes, particularly in leather or wood. In the biblical context, it is notably used in the ceremony of a Hebrew servant who chooses to remain with his master permanently. Cultural and Historical Background: In ancient Israelite society, servitude was often a temporary condition, with the Law providing for the release of Hebrew servants in the seventh year (Exodus 21:2). However, if a servant loved his master and wished to remain in his service, a ritual was performed using an awl. The master would bring the servant to the door or doorpost and pierce his ear with the awl, signifying a lifelong commitment (Exodus 21:5-6; Deuteronomy 15:16-17). This act symbolized voluntary servitude and loyalty. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom ratsa Definition a boring instrument, awl NASB Translation awl (2). Brown-Driver-Briggs מַרְצֵעַ noun [masculine] boring-instrument, awl; — absolute ׳מ Exodus 21:6, (E), Deuteronomy 15:17. Strong's Exhaustive Concordance aul From ratsa'; an awl -- aul. see HEBREW ratsa' Forms and Transliterations בַּמַּרְצֵ֔עַ במרצע הַמַּרְצֵ֗עַ המרצע bam·mar·ṣê·a‘ bammarṣêa‘ bammarTzea ham·mar·ṣê·a‘ hammarṣêa‘ hammarTzeaLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Exodus 21:6 HEB: אֶת־ אָזְנוֹ֙ בַּמַּרְצֵ֔עַ וַעֲבָד֖וֹ לְעֹלָֽם׃ NAS: his ear with an awl; and he shall serve KJV: his ear through with an aul; and he shall serve INT: and his master his ear an awl shall serve permanently Deuteronomy 15:17 2 Occurrences |