Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Description: A sword is a weapon with a long metal blade and a hilt, used primarily for cutting or thrusting. In biblical times, swords were commonly made of bronze or iron and were a symbol of power, authority, and warfare. They were used by soldiers, warriors, and sometimes angels, as depicted in various biblical narratives. Biblical Significance: Swords are frequently mentioned throughout the Bible, symbolizing both physical and spiritual warfare. They often represent divine judgment, protection, and the Word of God. Old Testament References: 1. Genesis 3:24 · After the fall of man, God placed cherubim and a flaming sword to guard the way to the tree of life, symbolizing divine protection and the separation of humanity from Eden. 2. Exodus 15:9 · The sword is mentioned in the Song of Moses, where the Egyptians boast of pursuing the Israelites with the sword, highlighting the threat of military power. 3. 1 Samuel 17:51 · David uses Goliath's own sword to behead him after defeating the giant with a sling and a stone, demonstrating God's deliverance and the triumph of faith over physical might. 4. Isaiah 2:4 · The prophet Isaiah speaks of a future time of peace when swords will be beaten into plowshares, symbolizing the end of war and the establishment of God's kingdom. New Testament References: 1. Matthew 26:52 · Jesus tells Peter, "Put your sword back in its place; for all who draw the sword will die by the sword," emphasizing the principle of non-violence and the futility of relying on physical weapons for spiritual battles. 2. Ephesians 6:17 · The Apostle Paul describes the "sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God," as part of the full armor of God, illustrating the power of Scripture in spiritual warfare. 3. Hebrews 4:12 · The Word of God is described as "sharper than any double-edged sword," able to penetrate and discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart, underscoring its role in conviction and transformation. 4. Revelation 19:15 · In John's vision, a sharp sword comes from the mouth of Christ, with which He will strike down the nations, symbolizing His ultimate authority and the power of His word in executing judgment. Symbolism and Themes: · Judgment and Authority: Swords often symbolize God's judgment and authority over nations and individuals. They are instruments of divine retribution and justice. · Protection and Deliverance: In some contexts, swords represent God's protection of His people, as seen in the angelic guardianship of Eden. · Spiritual Warfare: The metaphorical use of the sword in the New Testament highlights the importance of spiritual readiness and the power of God's word in overcoming evil. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, swords were not only weapons of war but also symbols of status and power. They were often ornately decorated and used in ceremonial contexts. The biblical use of swords reflects these cultural understandings while imbuing them with theological significance. Conclusion: While swords in the Bible are literal weapons used in historical battles, they also carry deep symbolic meaning, representing divine authority, judgment, and the power of God's word. Through these references, the Bible communicates themes of justice, protection, and spiritual warfare, encouraging believers to rely on God's strength and truth. Greek 3162. machaira -- a short sword or dagger ... exacting . Word Origin perhaps from machomai Definition a short sword or dagger NASB Word Usage sword (23), swords (6). sword. Probably ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3162.htm - 7k Strong's Hebrew 6609. pethichah -- a drawn sword... 6608, 6609. pethichah or pethichah. 6610 . a drawn sword. Transliteration: pethichah or pethichah Phonetic Spelling: (peth-ee-khaw') Short Definition: swords ... /hebrew/6609.htm - 6k 4380. mekerah -- (probably some kind of) weapon 2719. chereb -- a sword Library Swords Beaten into Ploughshares. They all Hold Swords, Being Expert in War; Every Man Hath his ... Matt. xxvi. 51-54. Christ Predicts the Danger of the Disciples in their New Relations ... The Arrest D. The Arrest of Jesus. Ch. 22:47-53 The Captive Christ and the Circle Round Him This Said Jesus, and Went Forth with his Disciples to a Place ... Psalm IX. Introductory Thesaurus Swords (50 Occurrences)...Swords (50 Occurrences). ... Matthew 26:55 In that hour Jesus said to the multitudes, "Have you come out as against a robber with swords and clubs to seize me? ... /s/swords.htm - 22k Spears (25 Occurrences) Plough-blades (3 Occurrences) Clubs (7 Occurrences) Sticks (25 Occurrences) Staffs (47 Occurrences) Staves (50 Occurrences) Vine-knives (2 Occurrences) Fight (265 Occurrences) Thief (41 Occurrences) Resources What can we learn from the tribe of Levi / the Levites? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Simeon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What can we learn from the tribe of Simeon? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Swords (50 Occurrences)Matthew 26:47 Matthew 26:55 Mark 14:43 Mark 14:48 Luke 22:38 Luke 22:49 Luke 22:52 Genesis 34:25 Genesis 49:5 Leviticus 26:7 Leviticus 26:8 Numbers 14:43 Joshua 10:11 Judges 7:22 Judges 20:2 Judges 20:15 Judges 20:17 Judges 20:25 Judges 20:35 1 Samuel 13:19 1 Samuel 14:20 1 Samuel 25:13 1 Kings 18:28 2 Kings 3:26 1 Chronicles 21:12 Nehemiah 4:13 Psalms 37:14 Psalms 37:15 Psalms 44:3 Psalms 55:21 Psalms 57:4 Psalms 59:7 Psalms 64:3 Psalms 76:3 Psalms 149:6 Proverbs 30:14 Song of Songs 3:8 Isaiah 2:4 Isaiah 21:15 Ezekiel 16:40 Ezekiel 23:47 Ezekiel 28:7 Ezekiel 30:11 Ezekiel 32:12 Ezekiel 32:27 Ezekiel 33:26 Ezekiel 38:4 Joel 3:10 Micah 4:3 Nahum 3:3 Subtopics Related Terms |