from גָּזַר; a cutting implement, i.e. a blade; axe.
Transliteration:magzêrâh
Pronunciation:mag-zay-raw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word מַגְזֵרָה (magzêrâh), transliterated as magzêrâh, is a noun derived from the verbal root גָּזַר (gazar). The root גָּזַר fundamentally means "to cut," "to divide," "to separate," or "to decide/decree." The prefix מַ (ma-) often forms nouns denoting an instrument or place associated with the root's action. Thus, מַגְזֵרָה signifies an "implement for cutting." Its semantic range, as indicated by the base definition, narrows this to "a cutting implement, i.e. a blade; axe." This suggests a tool designed for forceful severance or division, particularly one used for felling or chopping, with "axe" being the most specific and common understanding of its function.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word מַגְזֵרָה appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Deuteronomy 20:19]]:
"When you besiege a city for a long time, making war against it to take it, you shall not destroy its trees by wielding an axe (מַגְזֵרָה) against them. You may eat from them, and you shall not cut them down. For is the tree of the field a man, that it should be besieged by you?"
In this singular occurrence, מַגְזֵרָה refers to the specific tool used to cut down trees. The context is a law concerning the conduct of warfare, particularly the treatment of natural resources during a prolonged siege. The prohibition against using this "axe" to destroy fruit-bearing trees is striking. It does not forbid cutting down non-fruit-bearing trees for siege works (e.g., building ramps or towers), but it strictly forbids the destruction of trees that provide sustenance. This specific prohibition highlights the מַגְזֵרָה as an instrument capable of significant destruction, yet its use is divinely restricted, underscoring principles of preservation and responsible resource management even in the extreme circumstances of war.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is the verbal root גָּזַר (gazar), from which מַגְזֵרָה is derived. This root appears frequently in various forms, carrying meanings such as "to cut off" (e.g., [[Leviticus 1:17]]), "to divide" (e.g., [[1 Kings 3:25]]), or "to decree/determine" (e.g., [[Job 22:28]]). The noun גְּזֵרָה (gzerah) also derives from this root, meaning "a cutting" or "a decree."
Semantically, מַגְזֵרָה is closely related to other Hebrew terms for cutting implements:
* קַרְדֹּם (qardom) `{{H7134}}`: This is another common word for "axe" or "hatchet," often used for felling trees or splitting wood, as seen in [[Judges 9:48]] and [[1 Samuel 13:20]]. It appears to be a near synonym in function to מַגְזֵרָה.
* חֶרֶב (cherev) `{{H2719}}`: A more general term for "sword" or "knife," encompassing a broader range of cutting tools, often associated with warfare or sacrifice.
* מַאֲכֶלֶת (ma'akhelet) `{{H3992}}`: A "knife" or "slaughtering knife," specifically used for preparing food or sacrifice, as in [[Genesis 22:6]].
The concept of "stewardship" over creation is paramount in the context of מַגְזֵרָה in [[Deuteronomy 20:19]]. It speaks to the ethical treatment of the natural world, even during conflict, and aligns with broader biblical themes of responsible dominion over creation rather than wanton destruction.
### Theological Significance
The singular mention of מַגְזֵרָה in [[Deuteronomy 20:19]] carries profound theological weight. It reveals God's concern for the created order and the long-term well-being of the land, even amidst the harsh realities of warfare. The prohibition against using this "axe" to destroy fruit-bearing trees is not merely a practical military strategy (preserving future food sources), but a divine command rooted in a deeper theological principle of ecological stewardship.
This law distinguishes Israelite warfare from the scorched-earth tactics common among other ancient Near Eastern nations. It implies that even in conflict, there are divinely ordained boundaries to human destructiveness. The rhetorical question, "For is the tree of the field a man, that it should be besieged by you?" elevates the tree beyond a mere resource, endowing it with a certain dignity or vulnerability that demands respect. This echoes a broader biblical reverence for life and the interconnectedness of creation.
The מַגְזֵרָה, as a tool of cutting and potential destruction, becomes a symbol of humanity's power over the natural world. Yet, the divine injunction limits this power, demonstrating that even in moments of extreme necessity, God's people are called to exercise restraint and preserve life-sustaining elements of creation. This highlights God as the ultimate sustainer of life, and humanity's responsibility to reflect His character in their interactions with the world He has made.
### Summary
The Hebrew word מַגְזֵרָה (magzêrâh) refers to an "axe" or heavy cutting implement, derived from the root גָּזַר ("to cut"). Its sole appearance in the biblical text, [[Deuteronomy 20:19]], is highly significant. Here, the מַגְזֵרָה is the instrument explicitly forbidden for use in destroying fruit-bearing trees during a military siege. This prohibition underscores a profound theological principle: God's concern for ecological stewardship and the preservation of life-sustaining resources, even in the context of warfare. It reflects a divine wisdom that sets boundaries on human destructive potential, promoting responsible dominion over creation rather than wanton devastation. Thus, the מַגְזֵרָה, though a tool of cutting, ultimately serves as a powerful symbol of the divine command to respect and preserve the created order, demonstrating God's enduring care for the land and its provisions.
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