אַשְׁפָּה
a quiver or arrow-case
Definition
The Hebrew word אַשְׁפָּה (ʼashpâh) refers to a quiver, a container used to hold arrows. It is a straightforward term for an archer's essential equipment, appearing in both literal and metaphorical contexts. In its literal sense, it describes the physical quiver of a warrior, as seen in Job 39:23 and Jeremiah 5:16. Metaphorically, it is used to symbolize God's judgment or protection, such as in Isaiah 49:2 where the servant is a polished arrow hidden in God's quiver, and in Lamentations 3:13 where God's arrows are depicted as stored within it.
Biblical Usage
This word is used six times in the Old Testament, primarily in poetic and prophetic books. It appears in literal military contexts describing weaponry (Job 39:23, Isaiah 22:6, Jeremiah 5:16). It is also used in powerful metaphors: in Psalm 127:5, a man with many sons is likened to a warrior with a full quiver, and in Isaiah 49:2 and Lamentations 3:13, the quiver symbolizes God's arsenal for His servant's mission or for divine judgment.
Etymology
The noun אַשְׁפָּה is likely a feminine derivation from a root meaning 'to cover' or 'to contain,' related to the Akkadian word 'ashappu,' which can mean a container or basket. This connection highlights its primary function as a protective case. Its potential link to H825 (אַשָּׁף, often 'enchanter' or 'astrologer') is debated but may stem from a shared Semitic root denoting something hidden or stored.
Semantic Range
אַשְׁפָּה carries theological weight in its metaphorical uses. In Psalm 127:5, it transforms the quiver from a tool of war into a symbol of God's blessing in the family, portraying children as a heritage and reward. In Isaiah 49:2, it becomes an image of God's sovereign preparation and protection of His servant, the Messiah, who is kept ready for His appointed time. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the imagery of God as a warrior who equips His people and executes His purposes.
In the ancient Near East, the quiver was a standard part of a soldier's or hunter's gear, typically made of leather or wood and worn on the back or at the side. Its mention immediately conveyed ideas of warfare, hunting, defense, and readiness. The metaphor in Psalm 127:5 would have been instantly understandable to an ancient audience: a full quiver meant a warrior was well-prepared for battle, just as many sons meant a family was strong and secure.
None of the other Hebrew words for 'quiver' or 'arrow-case' appear in the biblical text. The term תְּלִי (tᵊlî, H8522) is also translated 'quiver' in some contexts (e.g., Genesis 27:3), but it may more specifically refer to a sheath or hanging container.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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