### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maqqâbâh**, represented by `{{H4717}}`, is a term for **hammer**. Derived from a root meaning to pierce, it properly refers to a perforatrix. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily in contexts of construction and fabrication.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H4717}}` is used to describe a fundamental tool of craftsmanship. Its most notable mention is in [[1 Kings 6:7]], where, during the building of the temple, there was "neither **hammer** nor axe nor any tool of iron heard in the house." In contrast, the word is used twice in the context of creating idols. [[Isaiah 44:12]] describes a smith who "fashioneth it with **hammers**," and [[Jeremiah 10:4]] states that idols are fastened "with nails and with **hammers**" so they cannot move.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which a hammer is used:
* `{{H1631}}` **garzen** (ax): An axe. This hewing tool is mentioned alongside the hammer as one of the implements whose sound was absent from the temple construction site [[1 Kings 6:7]].
* `{{H3627}}` **kᵉlîy** (tool): A general term for any prepared apparatus, utensil, or implement. It is used in [[1 Kings 6:7]] to encompass all tools of iron, including the hammer and axe, that were kept silent.
* `{{H4548}}` **maçmêr** (nail): A peg or nail. It is used directly with the hammer to fasten idols, showing the functional pairing of these two items in fabrication [[Jeremiah 10:4]].
* `{{H1270}}` **barzel** (iron): As the material for many tools, iron is specified as the substance of the tools forbidden from being used audibly at the temple site [[1 Kings 6:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4717}}` is revealed in its contrasting applications.
* **Sacred Silence:** The absence of the **hammer**'s sound at the temple site is intentional. It signifies that the construction was a holy act of assembly, using stones prepared elsewhere, rather than a noisy, common building project [[1 Kings 6:7]].
* **Fabrication of Idols:** The **hammer** is a key instrument in human attempts to create gods. Its use in fashioning and securing idols highlights the physical effort and futility of such an act, as the craftsman grows weary making an object that cannot even move on its own ([[Isaiah 44:12]], [[Jeremiah 10:4]]).
* **A Tool of Intent:** The **hammer** itself is neutral, but its context defines its meaning. It stands as an instrument that can be part of a profane act of idol creation or one whose silence is part of a sacred act of worship.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4717}}` is more than just a simple tool. While the word **maqqâbâh** appears infrequently, its usage provides a powerful contrast between the silent, reverent work done for God and the loud, laborious, and ultimately vain work of crafting idols. It demonstrates how the significance of an ordinary object is determined entirely by the purpose for which it is used.
TRV