Definition and Usage:
The term "hewest" is an archaic form of the verb "hew," which means to cut, chop, or shape something with a tool such as an axe or sword. In biblical contexts, "hewest" often refers to the act of cutting down trees or shaping stones, typically for construction or idol-making purposes. The term is used to describe both literal and metaphorical actions, often symbolizing judgment or destruction.

Biblical References:

1. Idolatry and Judgment:
In the context of idolatry, "hewest" is used to describe the crafting of idols from wood or stone. The prophets often condemned this practice, highlighting the futility and sinfulness of creating and worshiping man-made gods. For example, in Isaiah 44:12-13, the prophet describes the process of crafting an idol: "The blacksmith takes a tool and works with it in the coals; he shapes an idol with hammers, he forges it with the might of his arm. He grows hungry and loses his strength; he drinks no water and grows faint. The carpenter measures with a line and makes an outline with a marker; he roughs it out with chisels and marks it with compasses. He shapes it in human form, human form in all its glory, that it may dwell in a shrine."

2. Construction and Worship:
The act of hewing is also associated with the construction of altars and places of worship. In Exodus 20:25, God instructs the Israelites on how to build an altar: "But if you make an altar of stones for Me, you must not build it with cut stones; for if you use a chisel on it, you will defile it." This command underscores the importance of purity and obedience in worship, as well as the distinction between divine and human craftsmanship.

3. Symbol of Divine Judgment:
The imagery of hewing is sometimes used to symbolize divine judgment and the cutting down of nations or individuals who oppose God's will. In Jeremiah 46:22-23, the prophet speaks of the impending judgment on Egypt: "Her noise will proceed like that of a serpent, for they will march with an army and come against her with axes, like woodcutters. They will cut down her forest, declares the LORD, though it is dense, for they are more numerous than locusts; they cannot be counted."

Theological Significance:
The act of hewing in the Bible often carries a deeper theological significance, representing the power of God to shape, judge, and transform. It serves as a reminder of the futility of idolatry and the importance of worshiping the one true God. The imagery of hewing also emphasizes the need for obedience and purity in the construction of sacred spaces, as well as the inevitability of divine judgment against those who oppose God's purposes.

Cultural and Historical Context:
In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the practice of hewing wood and stone was a common and necessary skill for building and crafting. The biblical authors used this familiar imagery to convey spiritual truths and moral lessons to their audience. The act of hewing, whether in the context of idol-making or construction, served as a powerful metaphor for the relationship between humanity and the divine.Hewest (1 Occurrence)

Isaiah 22:16
What doest thou here? and whom has thou here, that thou hast hewed thee out here a sepulchre? hewing him out a sepulchre on high, graving a habitation for himself in the rock!
(See JPS)

Hewest (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Hewest (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 22:16 What doest thou here?
and whom has thou here, that thou hast hewed thee out here a sepulchre? ...
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Hewers (13 Occurrences)

/h/hewers.htm - 10k

Heweth (6 Occurrences)

/h/heweth.htm - 8k

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