Hewer
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Hewer in the Bible?
A hewer denotes a laborer responsible for cutting wood or stone, a role often filled by conscripted workers or slaves in ancient Near Eastern societies.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the role of hewers clarifies the extensive use of forced labor in biblical narratives, such as the construction of Solomon's Temple, revealing the economic and social structures of the period.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Hewer reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Hewer in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Hewer clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Hewer." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/hewer/