1 Samuel 13:20

Holy Bible: Easy-to-Read Version

Only the Philistines could sharpen iron tools. So if the Israelites needed to sharpen their plows, hoes, axes, or sickles, they had to go to the Philistines.

Cross References

Deuteronomy 32:41

I swear, I will sharpen my flashing sword. I will use it to punish my enemies. I will give them the punishment they deserve.

1 Samuel 13:19

There were no blacksmiths in Israel. The Philistines would not allow them because they were afraid the Israelites would make iron swords and spears.

1 Samuel 13:21

The Philistine blacksmiths charged 1/3 ounce of silver for sharpening plows and hoes and 1/6 ounce of silver for sharpening picks, axes, and the iron tip on ox goads.

2 Chronicles 34:6

Josiah did the same for the towns in the areas of Manasseh, Ephraim, Simeon, and all the way to Naphtali. He did the same for the ruins near all these towns.

Proverbs 27:17

As one piece of iron sharpens another, so friends keep each other sharp.