spear, spearmen

Definition

A spear is a weapon with a long wooden handle and sharp metal blade on one end that is thrown a long distance.

• Spears were commonly used for war in biblical times. They are sometimes still used in present-day conflicts between certain people groups.
• A spear was used by a Roman soldier to pierce the side of Jesus while he hung on the cross.
• Sometimes people throw spears to catch fish or other prey to eat.
• Similar weapons are the “javelin” or “lance.”
• Make sure that the translation of “spear” is different from the translation of “sword,” which is a weapon that is used for thrusting or stabbing, not throwing. Also, a sword has a long blade with a handle, while a spear has a small blade on the end of a long shaft.

(See also: prey, Rome, sword, warrior)

Bible References

• 1 Samuel 13:19-21
• 2 Samuel 21:19
• Nehemiah 4:12-14
• Psalm 35:3

Word Data

• Strong’s: H1265, H2595, H3591, H6767, H7013, H7420, G30570