a primitive root; properly, to hammer out (an edge), i.e. to sharpen; instructer, sharp(-en), whet.
Transliteration:lâṭash
Pronunciation:law-tash'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew verb לָטַשׁ (lâṭash), Strong's `{{H3913}}`, is a primitive root whose core meaning is "to sharpen" or "to whet." This action fundamentally involves bringing an edge or point to a state of greater effectiveness, keenness, or readiness, typically through a process of grinding, hammering, or polishing. It implies an act of preparation that enhances the cutting or piercing capability of an object. While primarily physical, the semantic range extends metaphorically to describe an intense or piercing gaze, as seen in Job. The extended definition "instructer" is a less common or debated interpretation, potentially stemming from a noun form implying one who makes others "sharp" or discerning, but the primary biblical usage is unequivocally tied to the act of sharpening.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of לָטַשׁ in the Hebrew Bible predominantly relate to the sharpening of weapons, particularly swords, signifying readiness for conflict or judgment.
* **Divine Judgment**: In [[Deuteronomy 32:41]], God declares, "If I whet my glittering sword, and mine hand take hold on judgment..." Similarly, [[Psalm 7:12]] states, "If he turn not, he will whet his sword; he hath bent his bow, and made it ready." In these instances, the sharpening of God's sword is a powerful metaphor for the imminent and decisive execution of divine judgment against the wicked. The act of sharpening emphasizes the certainty, precision, and destructive power of God's righteous retribution.
* **Prophetic Warnings of Judgment**: The theme of a sharpened sword for judgment is powerfully reiterated in the book of Ezekiel. In [[Ezekiel 21:9]], [[Ezekiel 21:10]], [[Ezekiel 21:11]], [[Ezekiel 21:15]], [[Ezekiel 21:16]], and [[Ezekiel 21:28]], the sword of the Lord is repeatedly described as "sharpened" and "furbished" for a great slaughter, particularly against Jerusalem and Ammon. This repetition underscores the inevitability and severity of the impending divine punishment, portraying it as a meticulously prepared instrument of God's wrath. [[Jeremiah 51:11]] also uses the Hip'il form to describe the sharpening of arrows in preparation for the destruction of Babylon.
* **Practical Wisdom**: [[Ecclesiastes 10:10]] offers a practical observation: "If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put forth more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct." Here, לָטַשׁ is used in a literal sense, highlighting the importance of proper preparation and diligence. A dull tool requires excessive effort, whereas a sharpened one allows for efficiency and effectiveness. This serves as a metaphor for the application of wisdom in life, suggesting that foresight and preparation make one's endeavors more fruitful.
* **Metaphorical Intensity**: In [[Job 16:9]], Job laments, "He teareth me in his wrath, who hateth me: he gnasheth upon me with his teeth; mine enemy sharpeneth his eyes upon me." This is a striking metaphorical use where "sharpening" the eyes denotes an intense, piercing, and hostile gaze, indicative of malicious intent or focused animosity.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of לָטַשׁ (lâṭash) is closely related to other Hebrew terms that convey ideas of keenness, preparation, or instruction:
* `{{H8150}}` (שָׁנַן, shanan): This verb also means "to sharpen" but often carries the additional nuance of "to teach diligently" or "to impress upon." For example, in [[Deuteronomy 6:7]], "And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children," the word implies making the words "sharp" or clear in the minds of the hearers. While לָטַשׁ focuses more on the physical act of sharpening for efficiency or destruction, שָׁנַן extends more readily to intellectual or spiritual sharpening.
* `{{H2719}}` (חֶרֶב, cherev): The common Hebrew word for "sword," frequently appears as the object of לָטַשׁ, emphasizing the weapon's readiness for use in battle or judgment.
* `{{H2671}}` (חֵץ, chets): "Arrow," another weapon that is sharpened for effective use, as seen in [[Jeremiah 51:11]].
* Concepts of readiness, precision, diligence, and the inevitability of divine action are central to the usage of לָטַשׁ.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of לָטַשׁ primarily revolves around the attributes and actions of God, as well as principles for human living:
* **Divine Justice and Judgment**: The most profound theological implication is the portrayal of God as one who "sharpens His sword." This imagery underscores God's active involvement in the world, His perfect justice, and the certainty of His judgment against sin. The sharpening is not a casual act but a deliberate, prepared, and precise execution of divine wrath, demonstrating His sovereignty and His commitment to upholding righteousness. It speaks to the inevitability of divine retribution for those who refuse to repent.
* **God's Sovereignty and Preparation**: The repeated use of לָטַשׁ in prophetic contexts (Ezekiel) emphasizes that God's judgments are not random or impulsive but are carefully planned and executed. He prepares His instruments of justice, highlighting His complete control over history and the destiny of nations.
* **Human Diligence and Wisdom**: The use in [[Ecclesiastes 10:10]] offers a practical theological lesson for humanity. Just as a physical tool must be sharpened for effective work, so too must individuals apply wisdom and diligence in their endeavors. This can be extended to spiritual disciplines, suggesting that preparation and intentionality are crucial for effective service and a productive life in faith.
* **Adversarial Intensity**: The metaphorical use in Job speaks to the spiritual reality of opposition. The "sharpening of eyes" by an enemy portrays a focused, intense, and often malevolent gaze. This can be understood as a warning against the piercing scrutiny and hostile intent of spiritual adversaries, requiring believers to be spiritually discerning and prepared.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb לָטַשׁ (lâṭash, `{{H3913}}`) fundamentally means "to sharpen" or "to whet." Its primary usage in the Hebrew Bible describes the physical act of making tools and weapons keen, particularly the sword of God. Theologically, לָטַשׁ serves as a potent metaphor for the certainty, precision, and inevitability of divine judgment, emphasizing God's sovereign preparation and execution of justice. It also conveys practical wisdom regarding diligence and preparation in human endeavors, as seen in Ecclesiastes, and can depict the intense, hostile focus of an adversary. Across its occurrences, לָטַשׁ consistently points to a state of readiness and effectiveness, whether for divine retribution or human productivity.
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