<Previous       Back to Main Dagger Page>

The Machaira

Hebrews 4:12-13 says:

"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.

"And there is no creature hidden from his sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do."

The Greek word used for “sword” is “macharia.” This knife was ordered as part of a coming of age celebration for the son of a man I know. The idea was to re-make the machaira and include as much symbolism as possible in its construction.

First, the two-edged sword. There are a few symbolic reasons why the Bible uses this phrase. A two edged blade is a weapon of war, not a gardening tool. It illustrates that we fight a spiritual battle “…not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:12)” The two edges also symbolize the dual purposes of scripture. The word of God has two intertwined purposes: first, to detail God's law - a law we are required to keep perfectly.  But as Romans says, "All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."  Since we are unable to keep God's law, God has provided his Son as a way of salvation.  The law of God and the salvation he offers are inseparable; each is meaningless without the other.  Without the law, there is no need for salvation.  Without salvation, we are doomed to fail as we cannot ever keep God's law. The Machaira blade is not only two edged, but made of two intertwined metals to represent the dual purposes of God’s word. The blade is 1095 and pure nickel in a twist Damascus. It is gun blued for a striking contrast.

Next, the handle. We used olivewood sent directly from Bethlehem especially for this purpose. The references to olives and olivewood are replete in scripture and it seemed a fitting material for the Machaira.

Lastly, the hilt of the Machaira is a flame made from solid brass. The Machaira represents the word of God, and His word,”…is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. (Psalm 119:105)” I put the flame there to remind us that the only time God’s word can light out feet and path is when it is in our hands, being used.

The display box is made from two pieces of solid black walnut relieved on both sides for the knife.

Thanks Mark for the business, and the opportunity to have a part in your son’s special day.