### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qâlaʻ**, represented by `{{H7049}}`, is a primitive root with a dual meaning: **to sling** or **to carve**. It appears 7 times across 7 unique verses in the Bible, illustrating two distinct types of action: one of forceful projection and the other of detailed craftsmanship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H7049}}` is used both literally and figuratively to describe the act of slinging. In one of its most famous uses, David **slang** a stone from his bag to smite the Philistine [[1 Samuel 17:49]]. This act of slinging is also a mark of military prowess, as seen with the lefthanded Benjamites who could **sling** stones at a hair's breadth and not miss [[Judges 20:16]]. Figuratively, the term is used for divine judgment. Abigail tells David that the souls of his enemies will be **slung out** as from a sling [[1 Samuel 25:29]], and the LORD declares through Jeremiah that he will **sling** out the inhabitants of the land [[Jeremiah 10:18]]. In its other sense, `{{H7049}}` refers to the act of carving, specifically in the construction of Solomon's temple, where the walls and doors were **carved** with figures of cherubims and palm trees ([[1 Kings 6:29]], [[1 Kings 6:32]], [[1 Kings 6:35]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the two primary meanings of `{{H7049}}`:
* `{{H7050}}` **qelaʻ** (sling; hanging): This noun is derived from the verb and refers to the implement used for slinging. It is the **sling** from which David's enemies would be cast out [[1 Samuel 25:29]] and the weapon he used against the Philistine [[1 Samuel 17:50]].
* `{{H4734}}` **miqlaʻath** (sculpture, carving): This word describes the result of the carving action. The walls of the temple were decorated with **carved** figures `{{H4734}}` of cherubims and palm trees [[1 Kings 6:29]].
* `{{H68}}` **ʼeben** (stone): This is the object most frequently associated with the act of slinging. The Benjamites could sling **stones** with great precision [[Judges 20:16]], and David took a **stone** from his bag to defeat his enemy [[1 Samuel 17:49]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7049}}` is found in its contrasting applications.
* **Divine Judgment and Power:** The act of slinging serves as a powerful metaphor for God's sovereign ability to remove or cast out. Whether it is God himself slinging out the unfaithful inhabitants [[Jeremiah 10:18]] or His instrument David slinging a stone to enact victory [[1 Samuel 17:49]], the word demonstrates decisive, forceful action.
* **Sacred Artistry and Holiness:** The act of carving is exclusively used in the context of adorning God's temple. By having the walls **carved** `{{H7049}}` with sacred imagery like cherubims, the space was set apart as holy and beautiful, reflecting a God who values order and artistry in worship [[1 Kings 6:29]].
* **Skill and Precision:** In both contexts, the word implies a high degree of skill. The Benjamites' ability to **sling** without missing [[Judges 20:16]] and the intricate **carvings** in the temple [[1 Kings 6:35]] both point to an expert proficiency, whether in warfare or in craftsmanship.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7049}}` **qâlaʻ** is a dynamic word that encompasses both destructive force and creative detail. It is used to describe the casting out of enemies and the crafting of a holy sanctuary. Through this single term, scripture portrays God's power in judgment and His delight in the beauty of worship, connecting the violent motion of a sling to the delicate work of a carving tool.
TRV