μάχαιρα (machaira)
machaira
sword
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 26 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun machaira refers to a short sword or large knife, distinct from the longer, straighter swords used by soldiers in ancient warfare. In the New Testament, it describes the weapon Simon Peter draws to cut off the ear of the high priest’s servant during Jesus’ arrest (John 18:10–11). This specific type of blade was common for personal defense or sacrificial duties, appearing frequently in accounts of violence and judgment.
While often translated simply as "sword," the word carries a nuance of close-quarters combat or utility. It appears in Revelation to symbolize divine judgment (Revelation 6:4) and is used metaphorically by Paul to describe the Word of God as a sharp, two-edged instrument that penetrates the human heart (Hebrews 4:12). This imagery draws on the physical properties of the blade to illustrate spiritual discernment.
The term also signifies the authority of civil government to enforce justice. Romans 13:4 describes rulers as "bearing the sword" not in vain, indicating their God-given role in punishing wrongdoing. Thus, machaira functions both as a literal weapon of violence and a powerful symbol of judgment, whether executed by human authorities or divine truth.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word machaira describes a short blade, distinct from the heavy weapons of war. In the Gospels, we see this tool used in moments of high tension, such as when Peter draws it during Jesus’ arrest. Yet Jesus immediately commands him to sheath it, pointing toward a different kind of victory. This reminds us that God’s kingdom does not advance through human violence or force.
Later writings use the image differently. Paul speaks of the sword of the Spirit, identifying it as the Word of God. Here, the blade is not for harming others but for discernment. It helps us understand our own hearts and navigate life with clarity. This sharpness brings peace by revealing truth, allowing us to trust in God’s guidance rather than our own strength.
Even when we face conflict or fear, this imagery offers comfort. We are called to rely on spiritual resources, not physical ones. The Word of God remains our steady guide, cutting through confusion and leading us toward the peace that Christ truly gives.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 26 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- sword8×
- swords6×
- [the] sword4×
- sword?2×
- of [the] sword2×
- a sword.2×
- a sword2×
- with the sword.1×
- of [the] sword,1×
- [his] sword1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μάχαιραν9×
- μαχαιρῶν5×
- μαχαίρῃ3×
- μαχαίρης3×
- μάχαιραν.2×
- μάχαιράν1×
- μάχαιραι1×
- μάχαιρα;1×
- μάχαιρα1×
- μαχαίρῃ;1×
- μαχαίρῃ.1×
- μαχαίρης,1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 26:52
Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its place, for all those who take the sword will die by the sword.
Jesus uses this moment to teach that relying on violence leads to destruction, establishing a boundary for how His followers should respond to threat.
-
Ephesians 6:17
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;
This verse uniquely identifies the sword as the Word of God, shifting the focus from physical combat to spiritual engagement and truth.
-
Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and is able to discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
The description of the word being sharper than any two-edged sword highlights its ability to penetrate deep into human motives and thoughts.
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John 18:11
Jesus therefore said to Peter, “Put the sword into its sheath. The cup which the Father has given me, shall I not surely drink it?”
Jesus refuses the physical blade to accept the spiritual cup from the Father, showing that divine purpose overrides human defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does machaira specifically refer to?
Why does Jesus call the Word of God a sword?
Does the Bible support using violence in defense of faith?
Every Occurrence (26 verses across 9 books)
Matthew 5 verses
“Don’t think that I came to send peace on the earth. I didn’t come to send peace, but a sword.
Matthew 26:47While he was still speaking, behold, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with swords and…
Matthew 26:51Behold, one of those who were with Jesus stretched out his hand and drew his sword, and struck the servant of the high…
Matthew 26:52Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its place, for all those who take the sword will die by the sword.
Matthew 26:55In that hour Jesus said to the multitudes, “Have you come out as against a robber with swords and clubs to seize me? I…