from an unused root meaning to prick; a prong, i.e. hay-fork; fork.
Transliteration:qillᵉshôwn
Pronunciation:kil-lesh-one'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term qillᵉshôwn (`{{H7053}}`) is derived from an unused root meaning "to prick" or "to pierce." This etymological foundation directly informs its primary meaning as an implement designed for such actions. Specifically, it refers to a "prong" or, more commonly, a "hay-fork." Its semantic range is quite narrow, denoting a multi-pronged agricultural tool used for handling loose materials like hay, straw, or possibly dung. The essence of the word lies in its function as a tool for gathering, lifting, or spreading by means of its pointed tines.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word qillᵉshôwn (`{{H7053}}`) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, found in [[1 Samuel 13:21]]. This singular occurrence is highly significant for understanding its practical context. The passage describes the dire technological disadvantage faced by the Israelites under King Saul:
> "And the charge for the sharpening was a pim for the plowshares and for the mattocks, and a third of a shekel for sharpening the axes and for setting the goads, and for the forks." ([[1 Samuel 13:21]])
In this verse, qillᵉshôwn (`{{H7053}}`) is listed alongside other essential agricultural and domestic tools such as plowshares, mattocks, axes, and goads. This enumeration firmly establishes its identity as a common, utilitarian implement crucial for daily agrarian life. The context underscores the Philistine monopoly on ironworking and metal sharpening, forcing the Israelites to rely on their adversaries even for the maintenance of basic tools. The mention of the "forks" (plural, though qillᵉshôwn is singular in form, here likely used collectively) highlights the necessity of such implements for the harvest, animal husbandry, and general farm work, emphasizing the economic and strategic vulnerability of Israel during this period.
### Related Words & Concepts
While qillᵉshôwn (`{{H7053}}`) is unique in its specific form and usage, its etymological root of "pricking" connects it conceptually to actions involving piercing or sharp points. More directly, it is related to other agricultural implements mentioned in the same passage, which collectively paint a picture of ancient farming technology:
* מַחֲרֵשָׁה (makhareshah, `{{H4282}}`): a mattock or plowshare.
* אֵת (et, `{{H0352}}`): another term for a plowshare or mattock.
* קַרְדֹּם (qardom, `{{H7000}}`): an axe.
* דָּרְבָן (darban, `{{H1861}}`): a goad, used for driving oxen.
The broader concept illuminated by qillᵉshôwn (`{{H7053}}`) is that of essential tools for agrarian societies, highlighting the practical realities of labor and sustenance in ancient Israel. It also touches upon the strategic importance of metallurgy and craftsmanship in the ancient world.
### Theological Significance
Given its single, highly practical occurrence, qillᵉshôwn (`{{H7053}}`) does not carry inherent theological symbolism or abstract spiritual meaning. Its significance is primarily contextual and illustrative:
* **Mundane Reality of Life:** It serves as a stark reminder of the practical, everyday realities of life and labor in ancient Israel, an agrarian society where such tools were indispensable for survival and prosperity.
* **Socio-Political Vulnerability:** The mention of the "forks" along with other tools requiring Philistine sharpening highlights Israel's technological dependence and economic subjugation. This subtle detail underscores the severity of their situation under foreign dominance, emphasizing the need for divine intervention and the establishment of a strong, God-ordained monarchy to secure their independence. It sets the stage for God's work through Saul and David to deliver His people.
* **Divine Provision and Covenant:** While not directly theological, the necessity of such tools for cultivation implicitly points to God's provision for His people through the land. The ability to effectively work the land and reap its bounty was a direct outworking of God's covenant blessings (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 28:8]], [[Deuteronomy 28:12]]). The lack of proper tools or the inability to maintain them would directly impede this divine provision, underscoring the spiritual dimension of their material circumstances.
### Summary
The Hebrew word qillᵉshôwn (`{{H7053}}`) refers to a "fork" or "hay-fork," an agricultural implement derived from a root meaning "to prick." Its sole appearance in the biblical text is in [[1 Samuel 13:21]], where it is enumerated among other essential farming tools that the Israelites had to take to the Philistines for sharpening. This singular occurrence, while seemingly mundane, is profoundly significant. It illuminates the practicalities of agrarian life in ancient Israel and, more importantly, underscores the strategic Philistine control over ironworking technology. This control severely impacted Israel's self-sufficiency and military readiness, highlighting their vulnerability and dependence. Thus, qillᵉshôwn (`{{H7053}}`), though a simple tool, serves as a poignant detail contributing to the broader historical and theological narrative of Israel's early monarchy and their reliance on God amidst challenging socio-political circumstances.
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