חֵץ

חֵץ

properly, a piercer, i.e. an arrow; by implication, a wound; figuratively, (of God) thunderbolt; the shaft of aspear

Definition

The Hebrew word חֵץ (chêts) primarily means 'arrow,' a sharp projectile shot from a bow. It often appears in literal military contexts, describing the weapon of archers (e.g., 1 Samuel 20:20-22). Figuratively, it represents sudden calamity or divine judgment, as when God's arrows are depicted as instruments of wrath (Deuteronomy 32:23, 42) or as piercing words (Psalm 64:3). In a few instances, it can refer to the shaft or point of a spear (1 Samuel 17:7) or metaphorically to a wound inflicted.

Biblical Usage

חֵץ is used 49 times across various Old Testament books, including historical narratives, poetry, and prophecy. It frequently describes literal warfare and hunting (Genesis 49:23; 1 Samuel 20:20). In poetic and prophetic books like Psalms, Job, and Deuteronomy, it is a powerful metaphor for suffering, slander, and especially God's judgment. For example, Deuteronomy 32:23-42 uses 'arrows' vividly for God's vengeance, while Psalm 38:2 uses it for divine discipline. The word appears in contexts of both human conflict and divine intervention.

Etymology

The noun חֵץ derives from the root חָצַץ (H2686), meaning 'to cut, to sharpen, or to pierce,' which directly relates to its primary sense as a piercing weapon. Some lexicons also note a potential interchange with עֵץ (H6086, 'tree, wood'), referring to the material (wooden shaft) from which arrows were made, highlighting its physical composition.

Semantic Range

חֵץ is theologically significant as a recurring metaphor for divine judgment and human suffering. It vividly portrays God's wrath as targeted and piercing (Deuteronomy 32:42; Lamentations 3:12-13) and human anguish as being 'shot' by God (Job 6:4; Psalm 38:2). Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by connecting the physical reality of ancient warfare to profound spiritual truths about consequence, discipline, and the piercing nature of both sin and God's justice. In ancient Israelite culture, the arrow was a common weapon for hunting and warfare, essential for survival and defense. Archers were key military figures. The metaphorical use of 'arrows' for sudden disaster or speech would resonate deeply in a society familiar with the arrow's speed, penetration, and often fatal impact. This contrasts with a modern context where such weapons are less commonplace, making the metaphor's original force more striking. רֶשֶׁף (resheph, H7565) — Often 'flame' or 'spark,' but can mean 'arrow' in a poetic sense, emphasizing burning or feverish destruction. קֶשֶׁת (qeshet, H7198) — 'Bow,' the weapon from which an arrow (חֵץ) is shot, representing the source of attack. שֶׁלַח (shelach, H7973) — A broader term for a missile, weapon, or spear, sometimes overlapping but less specific than 'arrow.'

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