Axletree: Part of a Wheeled Vehicle
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The term "axletree" refers to the central shaft for a rotating wheel or gear, a crucial component in ancient wheeled vehicles such as chariots and carts. In biblical times, the axletree was an essential part of transportation and warfare technology, facilitating the movement of goods and people across the varied terrains of the ancient Near East.

Biblical References:

The concept of the axletree, while not frequently mentioned explicitly in the Bible, is integral to the understanding of chariots and carts, which are often referenced. For instance, in 1 Kings 7:32-33, the construction of the wheels for Solomon's temple furnishings is described: "The four wheels were under the panels, and the axles of the wheels were attached to the stand. Each wheel was a cubit and a half in height. The wheels were made like chariot wheels; their axles, rims, spokes, and hubs were all of cast metal" (BSB). This passage highlights the craftsmanship and importance of the axletree in the construction of wheeled vehicles.

Historical and Cultural Context:

In the ancient world, the development of the axletree was a significant technological advancement. It allowed for the creation of more efficient and durable vehicles, which were vital for trade, agriculture, and military endeavors. The Israelites, like their neighboring cultures, utilized chariots in warfare, as seen in the accounts of battles throughout the Old Testament. The chariot, often equipped with a sturdy axletree, was a symbol of military might and technological prowess.

The use of chariots is frequently mentioned in the context of Israel's enemies, such as the Egyptians and Canaanites, who possessed formidable chariot forces. For example, in Exodus 14:6-7, Pharaoh's pursuit of the Israelites is described: "So Pharaoh prepared his chariot and took his army with him. He took six hundred of the best chariots, along with all the other chariots of Egypt, with officers over all of them" (BSB). The axletree, though not mentioned directly, was a critical component of these chariots, enabling their swift and effective movement.

Symbolic Significance:

In a symbolic sense, the axletree and the chariots it supported can be seen as representations of human strength and reliance on technology. However, the biblical narrative often emphasizes that true power and deliverance come from God, not from human inventions. This is evident in passages such as Psalm 20:7: "Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God" (BSB). Here, the reliance on chariots, and by extension the axletree, is contrasted with faith in divine providence.

Conclusion:

While the axletree itself is not a focal point in biblical texts, its role in the construction and function of chariots and carts underscores its importance in the daily life and military strategies of ancient societies. The biblical narrative often uses the imagery of chariots to convey themes of trust, power, and divine intervention, reminding believers of the ultimate sovereignty of God over human endeavors.
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1 Kings 7:32,33
And under the borders were four wheels; and the axletrees of the wheels were joined to the base: and the height of a wheel was a cubit and half a cubit.
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Library

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty
... end, which was inserted into the centre of the axletree. ... and the front attached to
the bent part of the ... the whole being piled up in four-wheeled carts drawn by ...
/.../chapter iiithe eighteenth theban dynasty.htm

Resources
Axletree: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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