I have recently spent some time researching the ‘thracian javelin’. Actually the term in the Greek is ‘Romphaia’ or ‘Rhomphaia’. The word is usually translated as ’sword’. The only occurances of this word in the NT is in 1) The ’sword’ that is prophesied to pierce Mary’s soul, 2) The sword that comes out of Jesus’ mouth in Revelation, and 3) The sword by which Death kills in the 4th seal.
So, I have discovered a few thing. For one thing, the ‘Romphaia’ is a bit obscure, because that are only a few that have been recovered archeologically. For another, we have carried on the traditional roman sword – the same broadsword that was used through the middle ages. This is the ‘machaira’ in scripture. Basically, what you typically imagine a knight would carry. The ‘Romphaia’ weapon has not been carried on traditonally.
However, from what has been discovered of this weapon, I have found a few fascinating details. For one, this weapon was mainly thrown. Around 5 ft. high, half of the weapon was a handle and the other have was a one-edged blade. Like a typical kitchen knife. Here is a picture of one that was discovered.
So, it was thrown like a spear, or used to slash your opponent as they got closer. But as you can imagine, it would not work well when your opponent had a typical broad-sword; which is much more effective for close combat. Additionally, the weapon usually had a sling to aid in the throwing. Hence why, in English, we use the word ‘javelin’.
So, I find it fascinating to apply this word to scripture, primarily in the context of a sword proceeding from Jesus’ mouth. As a weapon that was typically thrown, it really add to the image of the power of Jesus’ words. Although in Rev. 1, the sword coming out of Jesus’ mouth must be a literal sword, since the rest of the passage is literal. Although, I find is rather hard to imagine. But hey, my knowledge of the supernatual word is very miniscule, so, who knows?
