### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maqqebeth**, represented by `{{H4718}}`, holds a dual meaning as a **hammer** or a **hole**, such as one found in a quarry. Derived from a root meaning to perforate, this word appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is determined entirely by its context, representing either the tool that pierces or the resulting perforation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H4718}}` illustrate its distinct meanings. In Judges, it is a literal weapon. Jael **took** `{{H3947}}` a **hammer** `{{H4718}}` in her **hand** `{{H3027}}` and used it to drive a tent **nail** `{{H3489}}` into Sisera's **temples** `{{H7541}}` while he was **fast asleep** `{{H7290}}`, resulting in his death [[Judges 4:21]]. In contrast, Isaiah uses the word metaphorically, urging those who **seek** `{{H1245}}` the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` to **look** `{{H5027}}` to the **rock** `{{H6697}}` from which they were hewn and to the **hole** `{{H4718}}` of the **pit** `{{H953}}` from which they were digged [[Isaiah 51:1]], symbolizing their origin.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of `{{H4718}}`:
* `{{H3489}}` **yâthêd** (nail, paddle, pin, stake): This is the object driven by the **hammer** `{{H4718}}` in the account of Jael and Sisera, linking the tool to its specific, violent purpose [[Judges 4:21]].
* `{{H2672}}` **châtsab** (to cut or carve... hew, split, square, quarry, engrave): This word describes the action that creates the "hole" or quarry. The people of Israel are reminded that they were **hewn** from a rock, connecting the place of origin to an act of divine shaping [[Isaiah 51:1]].
* `{{H6697}}` **tsûwr** (a rock or boulder; figuratively, a refuge): This is the source material from which the **hole** `{{H4718}}` is dug. It serves as a powerful symbol of foundation and strength, reminding the people of their solid beginnings [[Isaiah 51:1]].
* `{{H953}}` **bôwr** (a pit hole (especially one used as a cistern or a prison)): This term is used in parallel with **maqqebeth** to describe the quarry, translated as the "hole of the **pit**," emphasizing the depth and source of Israel's origins [[Isaiah 51:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4718}}` is tied to its contrasting applications.
* **Instrument of Divine Judgment:** In the hands of Jael, the **hammer** becomes an instrument to execute judgment upon Sisera, an enemy of God's people. This act, though violent, is portrayed as a decisive moment where a simple tool fulfills a divine purpose [[Judges 4:21]].
* **Symbol of Foundational Identity:** As a quarry **hole**, the word serves as a metaphor for the origins of Israel. The call to **look** `{{H5027}}` back to this source is a call to remember their identity as a people **hewn** `{{H2672}}` and chosen by God, urging them to **follow after** `{{H7291}}` **righteousness** `{{H6664}}` [[Isaiah 51:1]].
* **Duality of Force and Formation:** The word encapsulates both destructive force and formative creation. The **hammer** is a piercing, destructive tool, while the **hole** of the quarry represents the empty space left behind when something new has been formed and brought out into the world.
### Summary
In summary, **maqqebeth** `{{H4718}}` provides a compelling example of how a single Hebrew word can carry vastly different, yet related, meanings. Though appearing only twice, it functions powerfully as both a concrete object—a **hammer** used for judgment—and as an abstract symbol—a quarry **hole** representing the very foundation of a nation. It illustrates the concepts of divine force, judgment, and the shaping of a people from a solid rock of origin.
TRV