Pruning hook

PRUNING HOOK (Heb. mazmerôth). An agricultural tool used in the cultivation of the vine, with a sharp knifelike end for pruning (Isa.2.4; Joel.3.10; Mic.4.3).

The exact shape of the pruning hook is not known. The blade apparently was not large since it could be forged from a spear-point. It was sickle-shaped and attached to a short handle. A blade found at Tell Jemmeh and dated from the 9th cent. may be from a pruning hook. Pruning and the use of the pruning hook are signs of peace and prosperity (cf. Isa 5:6, where lack of pruning describes desolation).

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (1915)

proon’-ing-hook.

See Hook, (3); VINE.