### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qâhâh**, represented by `{{H6949}}`, carries a primary meaning of **to be dull; be set on edge, be blunt**. It appears only 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. This term is used in two distinct ways: once to describe the literal dullness of a tool, and three times to describe the physical sensation of one's teeth being set on edge.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H6949}}` illustrates principles of both practical wisdom and theological accountability. In Ecclesiastes, it describes a literal state of dullness, where if an **iron** tool is **blunt** `{{H6949}}`, one must use more strength to accomplish a task [[Ecclesiastes 10:10]]. The other three occurrences are found in a proverb cited in Jeremiah and Ezekiel: "The fathers have eaten sour grapes, and the children's teeth are **set on edge**" ([[Ezekiel 18:2]], [[Jeremiah 31:29]]). This proverb is then directly addressed and revised in Jeremiah to establish a new standard of personal responsibility [[Jeremiah 31:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H6949}}` is used:
* `{{H1270}}` **barzel** (iron): This word for **iron** is used to describe the tool that is **blunt** `{{H6949}}` in [[Ecclesiastes 10:10]]. It refers to an iron implement or ax head.
* `{{H1155}}` **bôçer** (sour grape): Defined as **an immature grape**, this is the cause of the unpleasant sensation in the proverb. The eating of the **sour grape** leads to teeth being set on edge [[Jeremiah 31:29]].
* `{{H8127}}` **shên** (tooth): This word for **tooth** is what is directly affected in the proverb, becoming **set on edge** `{{H6949}}` as a result of the fathers' actions [[Ezekiel 18:2]].
* `{{H7043}}` **qâlal** (whet): In [[Ecclesiastes 10:10]], this word is used in contrast to being blunt. It means to **whet** or make sharp, highlighting the inefficiency of a tool that is not properly prepared.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6949}}` is centered on the concepts of cause, effect, and accountability.
* **Practical Consequence:** The use in [[Ecclesiastes 10:10]] serves as a metaphor for wisdom. A **blunt** tool is ineffective and requires more raw **strength** `{{H2428}}`, illustrating that a lack of foresight and preparation leads to greater toil.
* **Generational Consequence:** The proverb cited in [[Ezekiel 18:2]] and [[Jeremiah 31:29]] uses the visceral image of teeth being **set on edge** to describe a system where consequences are passed down through generations.
* **Individual Accountability:** Jeremiah employs the same imagery to declare a shift in divine justice. The old proverb will be nullified, and instead, "every man that eateth the sour grape, his teeth shall be **set on edge**" [[Jeremiah 31:30]], establishing a clear principle that individuals will die for their own iniquity.
### Summary
In summary, **qâhâh** `{{H6949}}` is a potent word that bridges a physical state with profound spiritual truths. Whether describing a literally **blunt** iron tool or the figurative discomfort of teeth **set on edge**, it consistently points to a direct relationship between an action and its consequence. Its use in scripture marks a pivotal transition from a perception of generational guilt to a foundational doctrine of personal accountability before God.
TRV