The Hebrew word qayin, represented by H7013, translates to spear or lance. Its definition suggests a weapon that strikes fast, derived from a root meaning "fixity." It is a very specific term, appearing only 1 times in 1 unique verses in the entirety of the Bible.
The sole appearance of H7013 is in a moment of intense conflict. It describes the weapon of Ishbi-benob H3430, who was one of the sons H3211 of the giant H7497. The verse highlights the immense spear by noting its weight H4948 was three H7969 hundred H3967 shekels of brass H5178. This formidable weapon was part of an arsenal, along with a new H2319 sword, used in an attempt to slay H5221 David H1732 2 Samuel 21:16.
Several related words from this account provide critical context for the weapon and the scene:
- H7497 râphâʼ (giant): This identifies the wielder of the spear as a descendant of a formidable race. The giants are noted elsewhere as adversaries of Israel, such as Og king of Bashan, who was part of the "remnant of giants" Deuteronomy 3:11.
- H5178 nᵉchôsheth (brass): This specifies the material of the spearhead, emphasizing its value and weight. Brass is used for other significant items in scripture, including the serpent made by Moses Numbers 21:9 and the "brasen walls" of protection promised to Jeremiah Jeremiah 1:18.
- H1732 Dâvid (David): This identifies the target of the attack. As God's anointed king, the threat against David represents a threat against God's unfolding plan 2 Samuel 21:16. David is a central figure in scripture, often depicted in prayer and reliance on God 2 Samuel 7:18.
The theological weight of H7013 is derived entirely from its single, dramatic context.
- Threat to God's Anointed: The spear is the instrument of a direct assault on the life of David H1732, the chosen king. Its immense weight underscores the physical power arrayed against God's purpose 2 Samuel 21:16.
- Symbol of Enemy Power: Wielded by a giant H7497, the heavy brass spear represents the seemingly overwhelming strength of Israel's enemies. These giants are established as long-standing foes of God's people Genesis 14:5.
- Context for Deliverance: The detailed description of this deadly weapon serves to magnify the peril David faced. This context implicitly points to the necessity of a deliverance that must come from a source beyond mere human strength.
In summary, while H7013 is an exceedingly rare word, its single use is pivotal. It is not just a spear; it is a symbol of a life-threatening challenge to God's anointed king. The description of this massive weapon, wielded by a giant H7497 against David H1732, serves to highlight the gravity of the physical threats faced by God's people and the significance of their deliverance.
TRV