Description
The spear was a long, straight rod with a sharp end used for piercing by thrusting. Its circumference was less than the grip of a man’s hand, and its length varied from the height of a man to much longer. It was normally made of wood with a metal head or point (see Spearhead). The butt of the spear was also covered with a pointed piece of metal (see 2SA 2:23) and was used to stick the spear in the ground or to drive oxen or horses as a goad.
See the illustration at Sheath, scabbard.
Usage
In battle the spear was held in the middle and thrust at the enemy. Only rarely was it intended for throwing (see Javelin).
Translation
Where possible, translators should choose a word or phrase that indicates that this weapon was held and thrust (much like a knife on the end of a stick) rather than thrown.
The phrase “lifted up his spear” occurs in 2SA 23:18 and 1CH 11:11. GNT gives the correct meaning with “fought with his spear.”
The meaning of the Greek word dexiolabos in ACT 23:23 is uncertain. Most translations have “spearmen” (RSV, NIV), “foot soldiers with spears” (CEV), “men with spears” (NCV), or “light-armed troops” (REB).