### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **máchaira**, represented by `{{G3162}}`, is a term for a **knife** or **sword**. It appears **29 times** in **26 unique verses**. While often referring to a literal blade or dirk, it is also used figuratively to represent concepts like war and judicial punishment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3162}}` is frequently used to describe a literal, physical weapon. During the arrest of Jesus, a multitude arrived with **swords** and staves [[Matthew 26:47]], and Simon Peter used a **sword** to cut off a servant's ear [[John 18:10]]. The word also denotes an instrument of martyrdom, as when James was killed "with the **sword**" [[Acts 12:2]]. Beyond direct violence, it symbolizes governmental authority to punish evildoers, with [[Romans 13:4]] stating that the governing authority "beareth not the **sword** in vain." Jesus also used the term metaphorically to signify division, stating he came not to bring peace, "but a **sword**" [[Matthew 10:34]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context and action of the `{{G3162}}`:
* `{{G337}}` **anairéō** (to put to death, kill, slay): This word describes the lethal result of using a `{{G3162}}`, as in the account where Herod "killed" `{{G337}}` James with the sword [[Acts 12:2]].
* `{{G3960}}` **patássō** (to smite, strike): This verb is used for the physical act of striking with the blade. An associate of Jesus "struck" `{{G3960}}` a servant with his `{{G3162}}` in the garden [[Matthew 26:51]].
* `{{G4750}}` **stóma** (edge, face, mouth): While often meaning mouth, this word is used to refer to the **edge** of a weapon. Believers escaped "the **edge** of the sword" [[Hebrews 11:34]], and others are prophesied to fall by "the **edge** of the sword" [[Luke 21:24]].
* `{{G3586}}` **xýlon** (staff, stocks, tree, wood): This term for a club or staff appears alongside `{{G3162}}` when the crowd comes to arrest Jesus with "swords and **staves**" [[Mark 14:48]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3162}}` is significant, representing both destructive and revelatory power.
* **Instrument of Judgment:** The sword symbolizes the power of the state to execute wrath on wrongdoers, a power ordained by God [[Romans 13:4]]. It is also an instrument of divine retribution, as stated in the principle that "he that killeth with the **sword** must be killed with the **sword**" [[Revelation 13:10]].
* **The Word of God:** In its most profound figurative use, `{{G3162}}` is identified as a spiritual weapon. It is called "the **sword** of the Spirit, which is the word of God" in the armor of God passage [[Ephesians 6:17]]. The power of God's word is further described as "sharper than any twoedged **sword**," able to pierce and discern the thoughts and intents of the heart [[Hebrews 4:12]].
* **Symbol of Hardship and Division:** The term is listed among the perils—along with tribulation and famine—that cannot separate believers from the love of Christ [[Romans 8:35]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3162}}` **máchaira** extends far beyond a simple definition of a knife. It functions as a literal weapon of violence, an emblem of judicial authority, and a powerful metaphor for the social division caused by truth. Most importantly, it is used to represent the living and powerful word of God, a spiritual **sword** that discerns the heart and equips the believer.
TRV