Description
The weaver’s beam was a wooden rod approximately 5–6 centimeters (2–2.5 inches) in diameter. The length could vary. Around this beam the warp threads were attached, and the cloth was rolled on it as it grew in length.
Usage
See Cloth manufacture.
Translation
In the Old Testament references, it is the exceptional size of each giant’s spear that is in focus. In 1SA 17:7CEV has taken into account that weaving on a hand loom is little known today in western English-speaking countries, so it has omitted reference to the weaver’s beam by saying “and his spear was so big ….” Where hand weaving is not commonly known, translators may want to follow this pattern. Another possible model is “and the shaft of his spear was twice as thick as an ordinary spear ….”
The Greek word histos in ODA 11:12 may refer to either the beam or the entire loom. It is usually not necessary to render this word literally; compare NRSV “a piece she had woven” or NJB “a piece of work.”