Bible Dictionary
Awl
An awl was a pointed tool used to pierce the ear of a servant who chose lifelong service to his master. The act symbolized willing and continuing obedience.
Definition
An awl was a pointed tool used to bore through the ear. Its ancient form is not known from the supplied material. The tool is mentioned in connection with a servant who chose to remain permanently in his master’s service after becoming eligible for freedom.
Biblical Usage
The pierced ear signified the servant’s voluntary promise of perpetual service and obedience. The practice is described in the laws concerning Hebrew servants.
Historical Background
The awl was used in a formal act involving the servant’s ear, regarded as the organ of hearing. The sources do not preserve a description of the tool’s ancient shape.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
An instrument only referred to in connection with the custom of boring the ear of a slave (Ex. 21:6; Deut. 15:17), in token of his volunteering perpetual service when he might be free. (Comp. Ps. 40:6; Isa. 50:5).
Smith's Bible Dictionary
a tool of which we do not know the ancient form. The only notice of it is in connection with the custom of boring the ear of the slave. (Exodus 21:6; 15:17)
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>ol martsea`: "Bore his ear through with an awl" (Ex 21:6; De 15:17). The ear was pierced as being the organ of hearing, thus signifying the servant's promise of obedience. See BORE.</p>