Meaning
A jawbone is the bone forming part of the jaw of a person or animal.
Biblical Usage
The term jawbone is especially associated with Samson’s battle against the Philistines. Samson found a new jawbone of an ass and used it as a weapon, killing a thousand Philistines.
The biblical account identifies the jawbone as an ordinary animal bone used by Samson in the conflict. It is not presented as a sacred object or as having special power in itself.
Key References
- Judges 15:15-17
- Judges 15:18-19
Related Terms
- Samson
- Ass
- Weapon
- Philistine
- Battle