### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **lâṭash**, represented by `{{H3913}}`, is a primitive root meaning to hammer out an edge or to sharpen. It is used to convey the concepts of being an instructer, to sharp(-en), or to whet. This term appears 5 times in 5 unique verses, indicating a specialized but significant role in the biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H3913}}` describes both literal and figurative sharpening. It is used in a foundational context to describe Tubalcain as an "instructer" of every craftsman in brass and iron, highlighting the sharpening of skills [[Genesis 4:22]]. It also appears literally when the Israelites must go to the Philistines to **sharpen** their agricultural tools [[1 Samuel 13:20]]. Figuratively, the word illustrates divine judgment, where God will **whet** his sword against the unrepentant [[Psalms 7:12]]. It is also used to depict intense malice, as when an enemy **sharpeneth** his eyes [[Job 16:9]] or when a deceitful tongue is likened to a **sharp** razor [[Psalms 52:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the contexts in which **lâṭash** is used:
* `{{H2719}}` **chereb** (sword): This word refers to a cutting instrument, like a knife or **sword**. It is the object that God will **whet** in preparation for judgment, linking the act of sharpening directly to a weapon of retribution [[Psalms 7:12]].
* `{{H1270}}` **barzel** (iron): As the material for many sharpened implements, **iron** is central to the concept. Tubalcain is an instructor of artificers in brass and **iron** [[Genesis 4:22]], and later the Israelites must sharpen their tools made of this metal.
* `{{H3956}}` **lâshôwn** (tongue): The **tongue** is metaphorically described as a weapon that can be sharpened. In Psalms, a deceitful **tongue** devises mischiefs and is compared to a sharp razor, demonstrating how words can be honed for destructive purposes [[Psalms 52:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3913}}` is seen in its powerful metaphorical applications.
* **Divine Readiness for Judgment:** The image of God who will **whet** his sword `{{H2719}}` shows that divine justice is not passive. It is an active, prepared response to those who do not turn `{{H7725}}` from their way [[Psalms 7:12]].
* **The Nature of Malice:** The word is used to express the focused, intense nature of hatred and deceit. An enemy **sharpeneth** his eyes `{{H5869}}`, signifying a piercing, hostile gaze [[Job 16:9]]. Similarly, a deceitful tongue `{{H3956}}` is described as **sharp**, highlighting the damaging and precise nature of malicious speech [[Psalms 52:2]].
* **The Origin of Craftsmanship:** In its first appearance, `{{H3913}}` establishes the concept of teaching and honing skills. Tubalcain is an "instructer," or sharpener, of those who work with brass `{{H5178}}` and iron `{{H1270}}`, grounding the term in the development of human ability and technology [[Genesis 4:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3913}}` **lâṭash** carries a meaning that extends from the blacksmith's forge to the depths of the human heart and the throne of God. While it literally denotes the sharpening of tools and weapons, its figurative uses are more profound. It illustrates God's readiness to execute judgment, the focused intensity of evil intent, and the foundational act of imparting skill. Whether describing a sharpened tool, a sharpened gaze, or a sharpened mind, **lâṭash** speaks of preparation and readiness for a decisive impact.
TRV