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NASB | Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]. It is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating as far as the division of the soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and of both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart. |
Bible Question: Heb. 4:11-13 Why is the Bible called a two-edge sword? In vs. 12 "For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edge sword...." This verse indicates that the Word of God is sharper than a two-edge sword, yet the Word of God is called a two-edge sword. |
Bible Answer: The Roman sword was the weapon spoken of by Paul. It was unique in that it was sharp on both edges. It could also be used to stab with the point. Many swords of that time were very heavy or too long and the user was off balance a lot of the time. The Roman sword never left the user off balance and since it was sharp on both sides it didn't have to be repositioned after a swipe at the enemy. Each solder carried his own personal sword for offence but it could absorb blows as well so it was good for defense also although the shield was primarily provided for this purpose. The Roman sword was the most versatile weapon to ever hit the battlefield of that time. The only thing that could be better, would be a sword that was sharper, hence we have Heb. 4:12. Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. |