Description
The arrow was a thin, straight rod made of reed or wood, about 50–70 centimeters (20–28 inches) in length. To one end of the arrow was attached a sharpened point, either of stone or metal. In the other end a notch was carved to fit on the string of the bow. The notched end was sometimes fitted with two or more feathers that helped stabilize the arrow in flight.
Usage
See Bow.
Translation
The Hebrew word reshef normally refers to something fiery (for example, spark or lightning bolt; see JOB 5:7; PSA 78:48; SNG 8:6). In PSA 76:4 it is parallel with the word for “bow” and probably indicates some kind of burning arrow.
LAM 3:13: See the comments at Quiver.
The Hebrew word mateh usually refers to a rod, club, or shepherd’s staff (see Rod, club, shepherd’s staff), but in HAB 3:9 many translations render it “arrows” (RSV, GNT; supported by HOTTP and A Handbook on The Books of Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah). This verse is very unclear in Hebrew.