Adze

An adze is a traditional tool used for shaping wood, particularly in carpentry and shipbuilding. It consists of a curved blade set at a right angle to a handle, resembling an axe but with a distinct chisel-like edge. The adze is used for cutting and smoothing wood, often in situations where the grain runs across the direction of the cut. In Hebrew, the adze is known as אֶזְרֹעַ (ezro'a). In other languages, it is referred to as Hackbeil in German, Hachet in French, and azuela in Spanish. The adze has been used since ancient times, with evidence of its use in various civilizations, including Egypt, Mesopotamia, and China. It played a crucial role in the construction of wooden structures, such as ships, buildings, and furniture. The tool's design allows for efficient removal of wood, making it indispensable in traditional woodworking practices. Today, while modern power tools have largely replaced the adze in many contexts, it remains an important tool in certain specialized applications and is still valued for its precision and control in shaping wood.