A bowstring is a crucial component of a bow, used to launch arrows in ancient warfare and hunting. In biblical times, the bow and arrow were common weapons, and the bowstring was essential for their function. The bowstring is typically made from materials such as animal sinew, gut, or plant fibers, which are twisted or braided to provide the necessary strength and elasticity.

Biblical References:

1. Judges 16:7-9: The account of Samson and Delilah provides a notable reference to bowstrings. Delilah, seeking to discover the secret of Samson's strength, is told by Samson, "If they tie me up with seven fresh bowstrings that have not been dried, I will become as weak as any other man." Delilah uses this information to bind Samson with fresh bowstrings, but he easily snaps them, demonstrating his supernatural strength. This passage highlights the use of bowstrings as a metaphor for binding and strength.

2. 1 Samuel 18:4: Although not directly mentioning bowstrings, this passage describes Jonathan giving David his bow, among other items. The bow, an essential weapon of the time, would have included a bowstring, underscoring the importance of the bowstring in the function of the weapon.

3. Psalm 11:2: "For behold, the wicked bend their bows; they set their arrow on the string to shoot from the shadows at the upright in heart." This verse metaphorically describes the wicked preparing to attack the righteous, using the imagery of setting an arrow on a bowstring to convey readiness and intent to harm.

Symbolism and Usage:

In the Bible, the bow and its components, including the bowstring, often symbolize strength, warfare, and judgment. The imagery of a bowstring being drawn taut can represent readiness for battle or the impending execution of justice. The bowstring's tension and release are analogous to the unleashing of power or judgment.

The bowstring also serves as a metaphor for the fragility and tension in human relationships and spiritual states. Just as a bowstring can be stretched to its limit, so can human endurance and faith be tested.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient Israel, the bow and arrow were vital tools for both hunting and warfare. The skill of an archer was highly valued, and the maintenance of a bowstring was crucial for the effectiveness of the weapon. Bowstrings had to be kept dry and in good condition to ensure they did not snap during use, which is reflected in the narrative of Samson, where fresh, undried bowstrings are used as a test of strength.

The construction and maintenance of bowstrings required knowledge of materials and techniques, reflecting the technological and cultural practices of the time. The use of sinew or plant fibers indicates the resourcefulness and adaptability of ancient peoples in utilizing available resources for survival and defense.

In summary, the bowstring, while a small component, plays a significant role in biblical narratives and symbolism, representing strength, readiness, and the execution of justice. Its presence in Scripture underscores the importance of preparation and the potential for both protection and destruction inherent in the tools of warfare.1. (n.) The string of a bow.

2. (n.) A string used by the Turks for strangling offenders.

3. (v. t.) To strangle with a bowstring.

3499b. yether -- a cord
... Word Origin from yathar Definition a cord NASB Word Usage bowstring (1), cords
(3), string (1), tent-cord (1). 3499a, 3499b. yether. 3500 . Strong's Numbers
/hebrew/3499b.htm - 5k

Daniel: a Pattern for Pleaders
... So pray thou,but keep thy bowstring right; it will be unfit to shoot the arrow of
prayer unless this be thy bowstring, "God's glory, God's glory""this above ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 61 1915/daniel a pattern for pleaders.htm

When, Therefore, it is Said that the Tradition against Female ...
... In modern times the official has lost all the social honor and dignity of
the common hangman. He is only the bearer of the bowstring. ...
/.../chesterton/whats wrong with the world/chapter 24 when therefore it.htm

This Day are Opened, Our Mouths to Give Thanks
... they repented, nor yet by means of waters, nor was it by reason of a breach, nor
yet by reason of bows; it was not at the sound of the bowstring they feared ...
/.../ephraim/hymns and homilies of ephraim the syrian/hymn ii this day are.htm

A vision of the King.
... could not execute. For Thou wilt make them turn their back, Thou wilt make
ready Thy bowstring against their faces. Be Thou exalted ...
//christianbookshelf.org/gaebelein/the lord of glory/a vision of the king.htm

A Royal Progress
... ancient singer could conceive of the triumphant King of the world, the Messiah;
a conqueror, enthroned in His chariot, and the twanging bowstring, drawn by His ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture d/a royal progress.htm

Order and Argument in Prayer
... He did not take the arrow and put it on the bowstring and shoot, and shoot, and
shoot anywhere; but after he had taken out the chosen shaft, and fitted it to ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 12 1866/order and argument in prayer.htm

Chapter xlix
... hands remained supple." Arms and hands are seen in quick movements, snatching the
arrow from the quiver, placing it in position on the bowstring, bending the ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xlix.htm

Bowstring (2 Occurrences)
... 2. (n.) A string used by the Turks for strangling offenders. 3. (vt) To strangle
with a bowstring. Multi-Version Concordance Bowstring (2 Occurrences). ...
/b/bowstring.htm - 7k

Cord (47 Occurrences)
... a kindred inconsistency it is translated the Revised Version (British and American)
by "withes" (Judges 16:7 the Revised Version, margin "bowstring"); by "cord ...
/c/cord.htm - 27k

Draught (8 Occurrences)
... 1. (n.) The act of drawing or pulling. 2. (n.) The act of moving loads by drawing,
as by beasts of burden, and the like. 3. (n.) The drawing of a bowstring. ...
/d/draught.htm - 11k

Bowstrings (4 Occurrences)

/b/bowstrings.htm - 7k

Bow-shot (1 Occurrence)
Bow-shot. Bowshot, Bow-shot. Bowstring . Multi-Version Concordance Bow-shot
(1 Occurrence). ... (DBY JPS WBS YLT). Bowshot, Bow-shot. Bowstring . Reference ...
/b/bow-shot.htm - 6k

Bowstring: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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