Jump to: ISBE • Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia A battle-axe is a weapon of war mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing strength, power, and divine judgment. In ancient times, the battle-axe was a formidable tool used in combat, often associated with warriors and military might. The term is used metaphorically in the Scriptures to convey God's power and the execution of His judgment.Biblical References: 1. Jeremiah 51:20 : "You are My war club, My weapon for battle—with you I shatter nations; with you I destroy kingdoms." In this passage, God speaks through the prophet Jeremiah, addressing Babylon as His instrument of judgment. The battle-axe, or "war club," symbolizes the means by which God enacts His will against nations and kingdoms. It highlights the sovereignty of God in using earthly powers to fulfill divine purposes. 2. Ezekiel 9:2 : "And I saw six men coming from the direction of the upper gate, which faces north, each with a weapon of slaughter in his hand. With them was a man clothed in linen, with a writing kit at his side. They came in and stood beside the bronze altar." While the term "battle-axe" is not explicitly used here, the imagery of weapons of slaughter conveys a similar sense of divine judgment and the execution of God's wrath upon the city of Jerusalem. Symbolism and Interpretation: In the biblical context, the battle-axe serves as a symbol of God's authority and the execution of His justice. It represents the power to break down and destroy, often used in prophetic literature to illustrate the impending judgment upon nations that have turned away from God's commandments. The imagery of a battle-axe underscores the seriousness of divine retribution and the certainty of God's plans. The use of a battle-axe as a metaphor also emphasizes the role of God's chosen instruments—whether individuals, nations, or events—in carrying out His divine will. It reflects the belief that God is actively involved in the affairs of the world, using various means to accomplish His purposes and bring about His kingdom. Historical Context: In the ancient Near East, battle-axes were common weapons used by soldiers in warfare. They were typically made of metal, with a sharp blade affixed to a wooden handle, designed for close combat. The effectiveness of a battle-axe in battle made it a powerful symbol of military strength and victory. The biblical use of the battle-axe metaphor would have resonated with the original audience, who were familiar with the realities of war and the instruments used therein. It served as a vivid reminder of God's ultimate control over the rise and fall of nations and His ability to wield power over the earth. Theological Implications: The imagery of the battle-axe in Scripture invites reflection on the nature of God's justice and the means by which He accomplishes His purposes. It challenges believers to consider the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine judgment, while also affirming the hope that God's plans are ultimately for the restoration and redemption of His people. In summary, the battle-axe in the Bible is a powerful symbol of God's might and the execution of His righteous judgment. It serves as a reminder of the divine authority that governs the world and the instruments through which God's will is fulfilled. Easton's Bible Dictionary A mallet or heavy war-club. Applied metaphorically (Jeremiah 51:20) to Cyrus, God's instrument in destroying Babylon. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) A kind of broadax formerly used as an offensive weapon.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BATTLE-AXEbat'-'-l-ax. Strong's Hebrew 5462. sagar -- to shut, close... root Definition to shut, close NASB Word Usage battle-axe (1), close (2), closed (9), confined (1), deliver (5), delivered (6), gave over (2), given (1), given ... /hebrew/5462.htm - 6k Library The Adventures of Saint Patrick of Ireland. The Adventures of Saint Anthony of Italy. I Look Upon all the Four Gospels as Thoroughly Genuine... The Scales of Judgment Rogerenes. The Adventures of Saint James of Spain. The Memphite Empire The Adventures of Saint David of Wales. Tales by the Way The Adventures of Saint Andrew of Scotland. Thesaurus Battleaxe... God's instrument in destroying Babylon. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. BATTLE-AXE. bat'-'-l-ax. See ARMOR, ARMS, III, 1; AX (AXE). ... /b/battleaxe.htm - 6k Battle-axe (2 Occurrences) Axe (19 Occurrences) Battle-ax (1 Occurrence) Battlebow Hammer (15 Occurrences) Club (7 Occurrences) Canaanites (63 Occurrences) Ax (12 Occurrences) Armour (32 Occurrences) Resources What are some flaws in the theory of evolution? | GotQuestions.orgDo we need to be aware of the spiritual battle that is taking place around us? | GotQuestions.org What is the battle of Armageddon? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Battle-axe (2 Occurrences)Psalms 35:3 Jeremiah 51:20 Subtopics Related Terms |
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