### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **taʻar**, represented by `{{H8593}}`, refers to an implement used for cutting or holding a blade. It appears **13 times** across **13 unique verses**. Derived from a word meaning to make bare, its definition encompasses a **knife** or **razor** (which makes something bare by shaving) and a **scabbard** or **sheath** (which is bare, or empty, when the sword is drawn).
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H8593}}` is used in several distinct ways. It frequently appears as a **sheath** or **scabbard** that holds a sword, often in the context of divine judgment, as when the LORD declares He will draw His sword from its **sheath** to punish Israel ([[Ezekiel 21:3]], [[Ezekiel 21:5]]). It is also used literally, as when David drew Goliath's sword from its **sheath** [[1 Samuel 17:51]]. The word is also translated as **razor**, used for ritual purification of the Levites [[Numbers 8:7]] and as an instrument of national humiliation by God, who shaves with a "hired **razor**" [[Isaiah 7:20]]. In one instance, it is a **penknife** used by Jehudi to destroy a prophetic scroll [[Jeremiah 36:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide further context for the uses of **taʻar**:
* `{{H2719}}` **chereb** (sword, knife): This word is frequently associated with `{{H8593}}`, which often serves as its **sheath**. The LORD's **sword** is drawn from its **sheath** for judgment [[Ezekiel 21:3]], and Ezekiel is told to take a sharp **knife** or **razor** for a prophetic act [[Ezekiel 5:1]].
* `{{H1548}}` **gâlach** (to shave): This action is directly performed by a **taʻar**. God promises to **shave** the head and hair with a hired **razor** as a sign of judgment [[Isaiah 7:20]].
* `{{H2206}}` **zâqân** (beard): The **beard** is a specific target for the shaving action of a **taʻar**. In a prophetic sign, Ezekiel is commanded to pass a barber's **razor** over his head and **beard** [[Ezekiel 5:1]].
* `{{H8181}}` **sêʻâr** (hair): The **hair** is central to the function of a **taʻar** as a razor. A **razor** is forbidden to touch the **hair** of a Nazirite during a vow [[Numbers 6:5]], but it is used to shave the **hair** of the head as a symbol of judgment [[Isaiah 7:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological and metaphorical weight of `{{H8593}}` is significant, often representing instruments of divine action or human character.
* **Instrument of Divine Judgment:** A **taʻar** is portrayed as the sheath holding the LORD's sword of judgment [[Ezekiel 21:3]]. It is also used as a metaphor for the agent of God's punishment, where the king of Assyria is a "hired **razor**" used by the Lord to bring disgrace [[Isaiah 7:20]].
* **Ritual Consecration and Purity:** The use of a **razor** is central to acts of separation and cleansing. It is explicitly forbidden from touching the head of a Nazirite, marking their holy separation to the LORD [[Numbers 6:5]]. Conversely, it is used to **shave** the Levites as part of their purification [[Numbers 8:7]].
* **Deceit and Destruction:** A deceitful **tongue** is likened to a sharp **razor** that devises mischief and works deceitfully, highlighting its capacity for sharp, destructive harm [[Psalms 52:2]].
* **Contempt for God's Word:** In a literal act of rebellion, a **penknife** is used to cut and destroy the written word of the LORD, which is then cast into the fire and consumed [[Jeremiah 36:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8593}}` is a versatile word that signifies more than just a simple blade or its container. It functions both literally as a **sheath**, **razor**, or **penknife** and symbolically as an instrument of God's will. Whether representing the coming judgment of God's sword, the means of ritual purity, or the sharp edge of a deceitful tongue, **taʻar** illustrates how a common object can be imbued with profound theological meaning, from sacred vows to divine punishment.
TRV