### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chănîyth**, represented by `{{H2595}}`, is the term for a **spear** or **javelin**. Its base definition is a "lance (for thrusting, like pitching a tent)." Appearing **47 times** across **40 unique verses**, it is a common weapon in biblical narratives, distinguished as a weapon for thrusting and close combat.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2595}}` is strongly associated with King Saul, who is often depicted with a **javelin** or **spear** in his hand, symbolizing his authority and volatile rage ([[1 Samuel 18:10]], [[1 Samuel 22:6]]). He famously attempts to kill David by pinning him to a wall with his **javelin** [[1 Samuel 19:10]]. In a pivotal moment, David takes Saul’s **spear** while the king sleeps, proving he could have killed him but chose not to [[1 Samuel 26:12]]. The term is also used to emphasize the might of formidable enemies, such as the brother of Goliath, whose **spear** staff was "like a weaver's beam" [[2 Samuel 21:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the military context of the **spear**:
* `{{H2719}}` **chereb** (sword): This term for "a cutting instrument... as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement" is frequently listed alongside the **spear** to describe a warrior's full armament [[1 Samuel 17:45]].
* `{{H3591}}` **kîydôwn** (lance): Described as "something to strike with, i.e. a dart" and "perhaps smaller than חֲנִית," this weapon is mentioned with the **spear** and sword as part of a Philistine's arsenal [[1 Samuel 17:45]].
* `{{H6086}}` **ʻêts** (staff): Meaning "wood" or "sticks," this word is used for the shaft of the **spear**. Its mention in describing the massive **spear** of an Egyptian giant highlights the weapon's construction and formidable size [[2 Samuel 23:21]].
* `{{H1270}}` **barzel** (iron): This metal, defined as "iron (as cutting)," was used for the spear's head. The head of Goliath's **spear**, for instance, was made of **iron** [[1 Samuel 17:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2595}}` is significant, often symbolizing the dichotomy between human warfare and divine power.
* **Limitation of Human Might:** In his confrontation with Goliath, David declares that "the LORD saveth not with sword and **spear**" [[1 Samuel 17:47]], establishing that victory belongs to God, not to weapons.
* **Prophetic Symbol of Peace:** The prophets Isaiah and Micah both use the **spear** in a vision of ultimate peace, where nations will "beat their swords into plowshares, and their **spears** into pruninghooks" ([[Isaiah 2:4]]; [[Micah 4:3]]).
* **Instrument of Divine Judgment:** God is depicted as a divine warrior whose power is represented by His weapons. Habakkuk speaks of the "shining of thy glittering **spear**" as part of a divine manifestation of power [[Habakkuk 3:11]].
* **Metaphor for Malice:** The psalmist uses the term figuratively to describe the vicious words of evil men, whose "teeth are **spears** and arrows" [[Psalms 57:4]].
### Summary
In summary, **chănîyth** `{{H2595}}` is more than just a weapon. While it functions literally as a spear or javelin in numerous accounts of battle and personal conflict, it also serves as a potent symbol. It represents the instruments of war that are rendered secondary by God's power, the violence that will cease in a prophesied age of peace, and the very might of God Himself in judgment. From the hand of a vengeful king to a tool destined for transformation, the **spear** illustrates the intersection of human conflict and divine purpose.
TRV