from קָשָׁה in the original sense (of קוֹשׁ) of bending; a bow, forshooting (hence, figuratively, strength) or the iris; [idiom] arch(-er), [phrase] arrow, bow(-man, -shot).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qesheth**, represented by `{{H7198}}`, primarily means a **bow**. It appears **77 times** across **74 unique verses**. Derived from a root signifying bending, its meaning extends from a literal **bow** for shooting to a figurative representation of strength [[Genesis 49:24]]. The term also refers to the iris or is used idiomatically for an archer or a bowshot [[Genesis 21:16]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H7198}}` functions in several distinct contexts. It is a primary weapon of war, wielded by warriors and nations ([[Jeremiah 50:42]], [[1 Chronicles 5:18]]). The **bow** also serves as an instrument of divine power, where God Himself bends His **bow** to execute judgment [[Lamentations 2:4]]. Conversely, God establishes peace by breaking the **bow**, signifying the defeat of armies and the end of conflict ([[Hosea 2:18]], [[Psalms 46:9]]). In a crucial theological turn, `{{H7198}}` becomes the **bow** in the cloud, a sign of God's everlasting covenant never to flood the earth again [[Genesis 9:13]]. This heavenly **bow** is so magnificent it is compared to the appearance of God's glory [[Ezekiel 1:28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the full context of the **bow**:
* `{{H1869}}` **dârak** (to tread; by implication, to walk; also to string a bow): This verb describes the action of preparing a **bow** to be fired. It is used to describe both the wicked who bend their **bow** [[Psalms 11:2]] and God preparing His own **bow** for judgment [[Psalms 7:12]].
* `{{H2671}}` **chêts** (an arrow): As the projectile launched by the **bow**, the arrow is its essential counterpart. They are often mentioned together, as when the wicked make ready their **arrow** upon the string [[Psalms 11:2]] or when a king is instructed to take up a **bow** and **arrows** [[2 Kings 13:15]].
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr** (powerful; by implication, warrior): The **bow** is the signature weapon of the **mighty man** or warrior. God breaks the **bows** of the **mighty men** [[1 Samuel 2:4]], and He can make His people like the sword of a **mighty man** [[Zechariah 9:13]].
* `{{H2719}}` **chereb** (sword): The **bow** is frequently listed alongside the **sword** to denote the full military might of an army. God promises not to save by **bow**, nor by **sword** [[Hosea 1:7]], but by His own power.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7198}}` is multifaceted, moving from warfare to worship.
* **Divine Judgment:** God's power to judge is often depicted through the imagery of Him as a divine archer. He bends His **bow** against the rebellious [[Lamentations 2:4]] and makes a person the mark for His arrow [[Lamentations 3:12]].
* **Source of Strength:** The integrity of a **bow** symbolizes strength and reliability. Joseph's endurance is described as his **bow** abiding in strength [[Genesis 49:24]]. In contrast, a "deceitful **bow**" represents unfaithfulness and failure ([[Hosea 7:16]], [[Psalms 78:57]]).
* **Symbol of Peace:** God's ultimate sovereignty is shown when He breaks the **bow** and makes wars cease ([[Psalms 46:9]], [[Zechariah 9:10]]). The destruction of the weapon of war becomes the promise of peace.
* **Covenant and Glory:** The most profound meaning is the **bow** in the cloud. It is not an instrument of war but a sign of God's everlasting covenant and mercy [[Genesis 9:16]]. This **bow** is linked directly to the visual appearance of the glorious presence of the LORD [[Ezekiel 1:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7198}}` is a word that travels from the battlefield to the very throne room of God. It functions as a literal weapon, a metaphor for human and divine strength, and a symbol of both God's righteous judgment and His merciful covenant. The journey of the **qesheth** from a tool of death in the hands of man to a sign of life in the clouds of heaven illustrates the depth of biblical symbolism.
TRV