### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qardôm**, represented by `{{H7134}}`, is the word for an **axe**. Its definition, perhaps derived from a root meaning "striking upon," aptly describes a tool used for cutting and hewing. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses**, signifying its role as both a common implement and a symbol of force.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H7134}}` is shown in both practical and martial contexts. It is a fundamental tool for labor, as when Abimelech took an **axe** in his hand to cut down a bough from the trees [[Judges 9:48]]. It is also listed as one of the essential metal implements, along with the coulter and mattock, that the Israelites were forced to have sharpened by the Philistines [[1 Samuel 13:20]]. In a more destructive capacity, an invading army is described as coming against a nation with **axes**, like hewers of wood [[Jeremiah 46:22]], and it is mentioned in connection with men who lifted up **axes** against thick trees [[Psalms 74:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the function and context of the axe:
* `{{H2404}}` **châṭab** (to chop or carve wood): This verb describes the primary action performed with an axe. It is used to characterize the advancing army in Jeremiah's prophecy as "**hewers** of wood" [[Jeremiah 46:22]].
* `{{H3772}}` **kârath** (to cut (off, down or asunder)): This word for severing is used when Abimelech **cut down** a bough [[Judges 9:48]], directly linking the action to the tool.
* `{{H6086}}` **ʻêts** (a tree; wood): This is the object upon which an axe is most frequently used in scripture. It appears as the material being acted upon by the axe in the contexts of cutting down boughs, hewing **wood**, and felling thick **trees** ([[Judges 9:48]], [[Jeremiah 46:22]], [[Psalms 74:5]]).
* `{{H4281}}` **machărêshâh** (mattock): This word for another cutting tool is listed alongside the **axe** in the account of Israelites seeking to sharpen their implements, placing `{{H7134}}` within a family of essential tools [[1 Samuel 13:20]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H7134}}` is found in its dual representation of labor and destructive power.
* **A Tool of Daily Work:** The axe is presented as a foundational tool for civilian life. The detail that Israelites had to go to their enemies to sharpen an **axe** underscores its necessity for everyday tasks [[1 Samuel 13:20]].
* **An Instrument of War:** The word is transformed from a simple tool into a weapon in prophetic imagery. An army advancing "with **axes**" symbolizes overwhelming military force and violent judgment [[Jeremiah 46:22]].
* **A Symbol of Ruin:** The image of lifting up an **axe** against trees serves as a metaphor for hostile destruction, suggesting a deliberate act of desecration and devastation [[Psalms 74:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7134}}` is a straightforward term for an **axe**, grounded in the physical world. While it denotes a practical tool for cutting wood, it also carries the symbolic weight of force and destruction. The word's usage illustrates how a common object can represent both the constructive power of labor and the devastating power of warfare and judgment.
TRV