### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **paṭṭîysh**, represented by `{{H6360}}`, is defined as a **hammer**. It is derived from an unused root meaning to pound. Though it appears only **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, it carries significant weight, representing both a literal craftsman's tool and a powerful metaphorical instrument of destruction and divine force.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H6360}}` appears in distinct literal and figurative contexts. In Isaiah, it is a literal tool used by a `{{H2796}}` **carpenter** and `{{H6884}}` **goldsmith** who "smootheth with the **hammer**" to fashion an idol, fastening it with `{{H4548}}` **nails** so that it cannot be `{{H4131}}` **moved** [[Isaiah 41:7]]. In contrast, Jeremiah employs the term metaphorically. God’s `{{H1697}}` **word** is described as being "like a **hammer** that breaketh the `{{H5553}}` **rock** in pieces" [[Jeremiah 23:29]]. The prophet also uses it to symbolize the empire of Babylon, asking, "How is the **hammer** of the whole earth `{{H1438}}` **cut asunder** and `{{H7665}}` **broken**!" [[Jeremiah 50:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the function and impact of the `{{H6360}}` **hammer**:
* `{{H1986}}` **hâlam** (to smite with the hammer): This root describes the direct action of striking. It is used in the account of the idol-makers, where one "that smootheth with the hammer him that `{{H1986}}` **smote** the anvil" [[Isaiah 41:7]].
* `{{H7665}}` **shâbar** (to break, crush, destroy): This word captures the destructive effect of a hammer. It is used to describe how Babylon, the metaphorical hammer, is itself `{{H7665}}` **broken** [[Jeremiah 50:23]]. Scripture also uses this term to describe God's closeness to those with a `{{H7665}}` **broken** heart [[Psalms 34:18]].
* `{{H1697}}` **dâbâr** (a word, a thing, a matter): This term is powerfully connected to `paṭṭîysh` when God asks, "Is not my `{{H1697}}` **word**... like a hammer?" [[Jeremiah 23:29]], establishing God's spoken declarations as an instrument of immense force.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6360}}` is demonstrated through its powerful imagery.
* **The Power of God's Word:** The hammer serves as a metaphor for the irresistible force of God's `{{H1697}}` **word**. It is portrayed as an active agent capable of shattering the hardest of substances, such as a `{{H5553}}` **rock**, signifying its ability to overcome any opposition [[Jeremiah 23:29]].
* **Instrument of Human Craft and Idolatry:** In a literal sense, the `{{H6360}}` **hammer** is a tool used by a `{{H2796}}` **craftsman** to create and fasten idols, highlighting human works that are intentionally made so they "should not be `{{H4131}}` **moved**" [[Isaiah 41:7]].
* **Symbol of Imperial Power and Divine Judgment:** A great empire, Babylon, is called "the `{{H6360}}` **hammer** of the whole earth," signifying its role in shattering other nations. However, the prophecy that this hammer will be `{{H1438}}` **cut asunder** and `{{H7665}}` **broken** illustrates that even the greatest earthly powers are subject to divine judgment [[Jeremiah 50:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6360}}` **paṭṭîysh** is a term whose significance extends far beyond its simple definition. It functions as a literal tool of creation in the hands of a craftsman, a metaphor for the unstoppable power of God's own word, and a symbol for a world-conquering empire that is ultimately brought to ruin. Through these few occurrences, the word **hammer** demonstrates how scripture imbues a common object with profound meaning, speaking to themes of human work, divine power, and final accountability.
TRV