Bible dictionaries

Awl

What Bible dictionaries say about “Awl”, one article after the other.

Easton’s Bible Dictionary & Webster’s 1828 Dictionary

Awl - (Easton's Bible Dictionary)

An instrument only referred to in connection with the custom of boring the ear of a slave (Ex. 21:6; Deut. 15:17), in token of his volunteering perpetual service when he might be free. (Comp. Ps. 40:6; Isa. 50:5).

Matthew George Easton, Easton’s Bible Dictionary; Noah Webster, American Dictionary of the English Language (1828)

The article in Easton + Webster 1828

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE 1915)

ol martsea`: "Bore his ear through with an awl" (Ex 21:6; De 15:17). The ear was pierced as being the organ of hearing, thus signifying the servant's promise of obedience. See BORE.

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia — James Orr, general editor and contributors; CrossWire SWORD module ISBE 2.2

The article in ISBE 1915

Smith’s Bible Dictionary

a tool of which we do not know the ancient form. The only notice of it is in connection with the custom of boring the ear of the slave. (Exodus 21:6; 15:17)

William Smith; revised by F. N. Peloubet and M. A. Peloubet; CrossWire SWORD module Smith 1.3

The article in Smith