Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the dagger, a short sword, was a weapon of significant importance, often used in close combat situations. The dagger is mentioned in various contexts throughout the Scriptures, symbolizing both physical and spiritual conflict.Historical Context and Description The dagger, typically shorter than a sword, was designed for thrusting and stabbing. It was a common weapon among soldiers and warriors in ancient Near Eastern cultures, including the Israelites. The design of daggers varied, but they were generally characterized by a double-edged blade, making them effective for piercing armor and delivering fatal blows in hand-to-hand combat. Biblical References One of the most notable references to a dagger in the Bible is found in the account of Ehud, a judge of Israel. In Judges 3:16-22, Ehud, a left-handed man, crafted a double-edged dagger about a cubit long. He concealed it under his clothing on his right thigh and used it to assassinate Eglon, the king of Moab. The account describes how Ehud thrust the dagger into Eglon's belly, emphasizing the weapon's effectiveness and the element of surprise in its use: "Ehud made himself a double-edged sword a cubit long. He strapped it to his right thigh under his cloak and brought the tribute to Eglon king of Moab, who was an extremely fat man. After Ehud had finished presenting the tribute, he sent away the people who had carried it. But he himself turned back from the idols near Gilgal and said, 'I have a secret message for you, O king.' 'Silence,' said the king, and all his attendants left him. Then Ehud approached him while he was sitting alone in the coolness of his upper room and said, 'I have a message from God for you.' As the king rose from his seat, Ehud reached with his left hand, drew the sword from his right thigh, and plunged it into Eglon’s belly. Even the handle sank in after the blade, and Eglon’s fat closed over it, so that Ehud did not withdraw the sword. And the dung came out." (Judges 3:16-22) Symbolism and Spiritual Significance In addition to its literal use, the dagger can also be seen as a symbol of spiritual warfare. The Bible often uses the imagery of swords and daggers to represent the Word of God and the believer's spiritual battle against sin and evil. Hebrews 4:12, while not specifically mentioning a dagger, speaks to the penetrating power of God's Word: "For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword, piercing even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart." The dagger, as a short sword, serves as a reminder of the need for readiness and precision in spiritual matters. Just as a warrior must be skilled in wielding a dagger, believers are called to be adept in handling the Word of God, using it to discern truth and combat falsehood. Cultural and Military Use In the broader cultural and military context of the ancient world, daggers were not only weapons of war but also tools for personal defense. They were often carried by individuals for protection against robbers and wild animals. The compact size of the dagger made it a practical choice for those who needed a weapon that could be easily concealed and quickly drawn in times of danger. Conclusion The dagger, as depicted in the Bible, is a multifaceted symbol. It represents both the physical reality of ancient warfare and the spiritual truths of the Christian faith. Through accounts like that of Ehud, the Bible illustrates the dagger's role in God's deliverance of His people, while also pointing to the deeper spiritual battles that believers face. Nave's Topical Index Judges 3:16-22But Ehud made him a dagger which had two edges, of a cubit length; and he did gird it under his raiment on his right thigh. Nave's Topical Index Greek 3162. machaira -- a short sword or dagger ... a short sword or dagger. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: machaira Phonetic Spelling: (makh'-ahee-rah) Short Definition: a sword Definition: a ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3162.htm - 7k Strong's Hebrew 2719. chereb -- a sword... chereb Phonetic Spelling: (kheh'-reb) Short Definition: sword. ... Word Usage axes (1), knives (2), sword (390), swords (18 ... axe, dagger, knife, mattock, sword, tool. ... /hebrew/2719.htm - 6k Library Knox and Queen Mary (Continued): 1563-1564 Faustus Repels the Charge of Sun-Worship Exile: Appeals for a Phinehas, and a Jehu: 1554 Ignatius Leaves his Native Land --What He did at Montserrat and at ... The Invasion of Greece and the Battle of Marathon. The Jewish War and the Destruction of Jerusalem. AD 70 The Rise of the Assyrian Empire The Justice of God [Endnotes] The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire Resources Should a Christian go to a haunted house? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about toxic relationships? | GotQuestions.org What happened between Paul's third and fourth missionary journeys? | GotQuestions.org Dagger: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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