### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **martsêaʻ**, represented by `{{H4836}}`, refers to an **awl**. Derived from the root verb `{{H7527}}` **râtsaʻ**, meaning to pierce or bore, this term appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**. Though rare, its usage is highly specific and symbolic, describing a tool used in a significant legal and personal ceremony.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, the `{{H4836}}` **awl** is the instrument used to formalize a servant's voluntary decision to remain with his master permanently. In the law outlined in Exodus, if a servant chooses not to go free, his master `{{H113}}` brings him to a door `{{H1817}}` or door post `{{H4201}}`. There, the master bores `{{H7527}}` the servant's ear `{{H241}}` with an **awl**, and the servant will then serve `{{H5647}}` him for ever `{{H5769}}` [[Exodus 21:6]]. A parallel passage instructs that one should take `{{H3947}}` an **awl** and thrust `{{H5414}}` it through the servant's ear `{{H241}}` into the door, establishing him as a servant `{{H5650}}` for ever `{{H5769}}` [[Deuteronomy 15:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are crucial for understanding the context of the awl's function:
* `{{H7527}}` **râtsaʻ** (bore): This is the root verb from which **martsêaʻ** is derived. It describes the physical action of piercing performed with the awl to create a permanent mark [[Exodus 21:6]].
* `{{H241}}` **'ôzen** (ear): This is the part of the body that is pierced. The ear is symbolically tied to hearing and obedience, making the act significant beyond its physical nature ([[Exodus 21:6]], [[Deuteronomy 15:17]]).
* `{{H1817}}` **deleth** (door): The ceremony takes place at the door of the master's house. Piercing the ear against the door or door post permanently attaches the servant to the household [[Deuteronomy 15:17]].
* `{{H5650}}` **ʻebed** (servant): This term defines the individual who willingly chooses to be bound to his master's house, a status formalized by the piercing of the awl [[Deuteronomy 15:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4836}}` is found in the ceremony it facilitates. It points to principles of commitment, obedience, and identity.
* **Willing Servitude:** The use of the awl is not a punishment but the culmination of a servant's choice. It signifies a voluntary, loving commitment to a master, establishing a permanent and binding relationship [[Exodus 21:6]]. This concept of willing service is a model for one's devotion to God [[Joshua 24:15]].
* **The Obedient Ear:** The piercing of the ear `{{H241}}` symbolizes a permanent pledge to hear and obey the master's voice. In scripture, the ear is directly linked to hearing God's instruction [[Isaiah 50:4]], so this act represents a lifelong posture of listening and submission.
* **Permanent Identity:** The ceremony at the door post `{{H4201}}` physically and symbolically attaches the servant to the master's household forever. The doorpost is a place of identity and protection, marking a transition into a new, permanent state of belonging [[Exodus 21:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4836}}` **martsêaʻ** is more than just a simple tool. While its literal meaning is an awl, its biblical function is to officiate a profound covenant of voluntary and permanent service. It illustrates how a common object can be imbued with deep symbolic meaning, representing lifelong commitment, willing obedience, and a new identity within a household.
TRV