Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: The term "Aul" does not appear directly in the canonical texts of the Bible. However, it is often associated with the Hebrew word "awl," which is a tool used in ancient times. The awl is a pointed instrument used for piercing or making holes, particularly in leather or wood. The Hebrew word for awl is "מרצע" (mirtza), which is mentioned in the context of servitude in the Old Testament. Biblical References: The most notable reference to an awl is found in the context of Hebrew servitude laws. In Exodus 21:5-6 , the awl is used in a ceremony to signify a servant's voluntary decision to remain with his master for life: "But if the servant declares, ‘I love my master and my wife and children; I do not want to go free,’ then his master must take him before the judges. He shall take him to the door or doorpost and pierce his ear with an awl. Then he will be his servant for life." A similar reference is found in Deuteronomy 15:16-17 : "But if your servant says to you, ‘I do not want to leave you,’ because he loves you and your household and is well off with you, then take an awl and pierce through his ear into the door, and he shall be your servant for life. And do the same for your maidservant." Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Israel, the awl was a practical tool used in various trades, particularly in leatherworking. Its symbolic use in the servitude ceremony highlights the cultural and legal practices of the time. The piercing of the ear with an awl was a public declaration of a servant's loyalty and commitment to his master, signifying a lifelong bond. This act was not merely a physical marking but a profound statement of love and dedication, both to the master and to the household. Theological Significance: The use of the awl in the servitude ceremony can be seen as a foreshadowing of the New Testament concept of willing servitude to Christ. Just as the servant willingly chose to remain with his master out of love, Christians are called to serve Christ out of love and devotion. This voluntary servitude is a recurring theme in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to become "slaves of righteousness" (Romans 6:18). Symbolism and Application: The awl, as a symbol, represents commitment and voluntary service. In a spiritual sense, it challenges believers to consider their own commitment to God and to willingly submit to His will. The act of piercing the ear can be seen as a metaphor for opening one's ears to hear and obey God's voice, as emphasized in various scriptural passages that call for attentive listening to God's word. In summary, while the term "Aul" itself is not directly found in the Bible, its association with the awl provides rich insights into biblical servitude, cultural practices, and spiritual symbolism. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia AULol: See AWL. Strong's Hebrew 4836. martsea -- a boring instrument, awl... Word Origin from ratsa Definition a boring instrument, awl NASB Word Usage awl (2). aul. From ratsa'; an awl -- aul. see HEBREW ratsa'. 4835, 4836. ... /hebrew/4836.htm - 6k Library The Worship of God. Letter Lxxxi. To Rufinus. Letter xxvii. To Marcella. Letter ix. To Maximus the Philosopher. That Gospel Sermon on the Blessed Hope "The Earth was Invisible and Unfinished. " Sources. Peaceable Principles and True: Or, a Brief Answer to Mr. D'Anver's ... Letter Xlviii. To Pammachius. Homiletical. Thesaurus AulAul. Augustus, Aul. Aunt . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia AUL. ol: See AWL. Augustus, Aul. Aunt . Reference Bible. /a/aul.htm - 6k Augustus (4 Occurrences) Aunt (3 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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