The term "axletree" refers to the central shaft for a rotating wheel or group of wheels. In biblical times, axletrees were crucial components of chariots and carts, serving as the support structure that allowed wheels to turn smoothly. The concept of the axletree is mentioned in the context of ancient transportation and warfare, reflecting the technological advancements of the period.

Biblical References:

The word "axletree" itself does not appear in the Berean Standard Bible ; however, the concept is implicit in several passages that describe chariots and carts. For instance, in 1 Kings 7:32-33, the construction of the carts for Solomon's temple is described, highlighting the importance of wheels and their components: "Each cart had four bronze wheels with bronze axles, and its four feet had supports. Under the basin were cast wreaths on each side."

In the context of warfare, chariots were a significant military asset, and their effectiveness depended heavily on the quality of their axletrees. The Bible frequently mentions chariots in battle scenarios, such as in Exodus 14:25, where the Lord intervenes during the pursuit of the Israelites by the Egyptians: "He caused their chariot wheels to swerve, making them drive with difficulty. 'Let us flee from the Israelites,' said the Egyptians, 'for the LORD is fighting for them against Egypt.'"

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the development of the chariot was a major technological advancement. Chariots were used not only in warfare but also in ceremonial and royal contexts. The construction of a chariot required skilled craftsmanship, particularly in the making of the axletree, which had to be strong enough to support the weight and stress of movement while allowing for smooth rotation of the wheels.

The materials used for axletrees varied, but they were typically made from strong woods or metals like bronze, as indicated in the biblical descriptions. The durability and design of the axletree were crucial for the chariot's performance, especially in battle, where mobility and speed were essential.

Symbolic Significance:

While the axletree itself is a technical component, its role in the function of chariots can be seen as symbolic of stability and support. Just as the axletree supports the wheels, enabling movement and progress, so too does faith provide the foundation for spiritual journey and growth. The biblical narratives that involve chariots often highlight themes of divine intervention and deliverance, as seen in the Exodus account, where the malfunction of the Egyptian chariots' wheels signifies God's protection over His people.

In summary, the axletree, though a seemingly minor detail, plays a significant role in the broader biblical narrative by supporting the function of chariots, which are often associated with power, warfare, and divine intervention.1. (n.) A bar or beam of wood or iron, connecting the opposite wheels of a carriage, on the ends of which the wheels revolve.

2. (n.) A spindle or axle of a wheel.

AXLE-TREE

ak'-sil-tre. See SEA, thE MOLTEN.

3027. yad -- hand
... wrists* (1), yield* (1), yourselves (2). be able, about, armholes, at, axletree,
because of, beside, border,. A primitive word; a hand ...
/hebrew/3027.htm - 8k

On the Morning of Christ's Nativity
... The new-enlighten'd world no more should need: He saw a greater Sun appear. Than
his bright throne or burning axletree could bear. The shepherds on the lawn,. ...
/.../palgrave/the treasury of sacred song/lxxxi on the morning of.htm

The Power of God
... world! God's power is of equal extent with his will. He with a word can unpin
the wheels, and break the axletree of the creation. He ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/a body of divinity/6 the power of god.htm

The Being of God
... Did God suspend and withdraw his influence ever so little, the wheels of
the creation would unpin, and the axletree break asunder. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/a body of divinity/1 the being of god.htm

Sky, Earth, and Sea: a Parable of God
... So mercy is the strong axletree, the northern pole and the southern, on which
the whole world of the divine perfections revolves and moves. ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture j/sky earth and sea a.htm

The Providence of God
... The providence of God keeps the whole creation upon the wheels, or else it would
soon be dissolved, and the very axletree would break in pieces. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/a body of divinity/14 the providence of god.htm

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty
... which was of a single piece of wood, was bent into an elbow at about one-fifth of
its length from the end, which was inserted into the centre of the axletree. ...
/.../chapter iiithe eighteenth theban dynasty.htm

The Close of the Theban Empire
... work. The round axletree was kept in its place by means of a rude pin, and
four oxen were harnessed abreast to the whole structure. ...
/.../chapter iiithe close of the.htm

Axletree

/a/axletree.htm - 6k

Clout
... 5. (n.) An iron plate on an axletree or other wood to keep it from wearing; a
washer. ... 9. (n.) To guard with an iron plate, as an axletree. 10. ...
/c/clout.htm - 7k

Tree (245 Occurrences)
... 3. (n.) A piece of timber, or something commonly made of timber; -- used in composition,
as in axletree, boottree, chesstree, crosstree, whiffletree, and the ...
/t/tree.htm - 75k

Axle-tree
Axle-tree. Axletree, Axle-tree. Axletrees . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia
AXLE-TREE. ... See SEA, thE MOLTEN. Axletree, Axle-tree. Axletrees . Reference ...
/a/axle-tree.htm - 6k

Axles (3 Occurrences)

/a/axles.htm - 7k

Axletree: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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