from עִיט (contracted) in the sense of swooping, i.e. side-long stroke; a stylus or marking stick; pen.
Transliteration:ʻêṭ
Pronunciation:ate
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun עֵט (ʻêṭ, `{{H5842}}`) refers primarily to a "pen," "stylus," or "marking stick." Its etymology is particularly insightful, being derived from the root עִיט (ʻîṭ), which suggests a rapid, swooping motion, often associated with birds of prey. This underlying sense implies that the עֵט is a tool that makes a quick, decisive, and perhaps incisive mark. It is an instrument of inscription, used for writing, engraving, or carving, and its semantic range encompasses various tools capable of producing such marks on different surfaces, from papyrus to stone. The core meaning thus emphasizes the act of making a clear, permanent impression.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term עֵט appears in several significant biblical passages, each illuminating a facet of its use and importance:
* In [[Judges 5:14]], the "pen of the writer" (עֵט סֹפֵר) is mentioned in the Song of Deborah, referring to the instrument of a scribe or recorder. This highlights its role in documenting events and preserving knowledge.
* [[Psalm 45:1]] speaks of "the pen of a ready writer" (עֵט סֹפֵר מָהִיר), emphasizing the skill and swiftness of the scribe. Here, the עֵט is a tool for artistic and eloquent composition, likely in the context of royal or poetic writing.
* In [[Isaiah 8:1]], the prophet is commanded to "write in it with a man's pen" (בְּעֵט אֱנוֹשׁ) upon a large tablet. This signifies the use of a common, human writing instrument to record a divine prophetic message, underscoring the accessibility and public nature of the prophecy.
* [[Jeremiah 8:8]] presents a stark contrast: "How can you say, 'We are wise, and the law of the Lord is with us'? But behold, the false pen of the scribes has made it into a lie" (עֵט שֶׁקֶר סֹפְרִים). Here, the עֵט is implicated in deception and corruption, demonstrating that even a tool for truth can be used to propagate falsehood.
* Perhaps most powerfully, [[Jeremiah 17:1]] describes Judah's sin as "written with a pen of iron" (בְּעֵט בַּרְזֶל) and "with the point of a diamond" upon the tablet of their heart and the horns of their altars. The "pen of iron" signifies an indelible, permanent inscription, suggesting the deep-seated nature of their sin and the certainty of divine judgment. This imagery conveys an unalterable record, akin to engraving on stone.
Across these contexts, עֵט consistently denotes an instrument of inscription, whether for record-keeping, artistic expression, prophetic declaration, or permanent indictment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of עֵט is enriched by examining its relationship with other Hebrew terms and broader concepts:
* **Root עִיט (ʻîṭ):** While עֵט is a contracted form, the underlying verbal root `{{H5770}}` signifies "to swoop," "to rush upon," or "to scream." This connection imbues the עֵט with a sense of swift, decisive action in making a mark.
* **Other Writing Tools:**
* חֶרֶט (cheret, `{{H2747}}`): An "engraving tool" or "stylus," often used for harder materials like metal or stone (e.g., Exodus 32:4, Isaiah 8:1). While עֵט can also imply engraving (Jeremiah 17:1), חֶרֶט is more specifically an engraver's tool.
* מִזְמָר (mizmar, `{{H4210}}`): Though primarily a "pruning hook," it can also refer to a stylus, especially one used for cutting or carving.
* **Actions and Products of Writing:**
* כָּתַב (katav, `{{H3789}}`): The verb "to write," "to inscribe." The עֵט is the instrument by which this action is performed.
* סֵפֶר (sepher, `{{H5612}}`): "Book," "scroll," "document." This is the common product of writing with an עֵט.
* **Concepts:** The עֵט is intrinsically linked to concepts of authorship, record-keeping, law, prophecy, truth, and even deception. It represents the power and authority of the written word.
### Theological Significance
The עֵט holds profound theological significance, primarily as a conduit for divine communication and a symbol of permanence:
* **Instrument of Divine Revelation:** In passages like [[Isaiah 8:1]], the עֵט is the human tool through which God's prophetic word is recorded and made accessible. It bridges the divine will and human understanding, demonstrating that God uses human means to convey His messages. This underscores the inspiration and authority of the biblical texts.
* **Permanence of God's Decrees and Human Actions:** The imagery of the "pen of iron" in [[Jeremiah 17:1]] is a powerful theological statement. It signifies that God's judgments, and indeed the record of human sin, are not ephemeral but are etched with an indelible mark. This speaks to the unchangeable nature of God's character and the enduring consequences of human choices.
* **Moral Responsibility in Communication:** The "false pen of the scribes" in [[Jeremiah 8:8]] highlights the ethical dimension of writing and interpretation. The עֵט, though a neutral tool, can be wielded for truth or for deceit. This serves as a potent reminder of human accountability in handling and transmitting divine truth, emphasizing the importance of integrity in scholarship and teaching.
* **Preservation of Sacred Tradition:** The עֵט was the indispensable tool of the scribes, who were instrumental in preserving, copying, and transmitting the Torah and prophetic writings. Their diligent work, performed with the עֵט, ensured the continuity of Israel's sacred heritage and the accessibility of God's word across generations.
### Summary
The Hebrew word עֵט (ʻêṭ, `{{H5842}}`) denotes a "pen," "stylus," or "marking stick," deriving from a root that implies swift and decisive action. Its biblical occurrences consistently highlight its function as an instrument of inscription, whether for scribal record-keeping, prophetic declaration, or permanent engraving. Theologically, the עֵט serves as a crucial symbol of divine revelation, signifying the human means through which God's word is recorded and preserved. It powerfully conveys the permanence of God's decrees and the indelible nature of human sin. Furthermore, the עֵט underscores the moral responsibility inherent in communication, reminding us that this powerful tool can be used for both truth and falsehood. Ultimately, עֵט represents the enduring authority and impact of the written word in the biblical narrative.
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