Easton's Bible Dictionary An instrument only referred to in connection with the custom of boring the ear of a slave (Exodus 21:6; Deuteronomy 15:17), in token of his volunteering perpetual service when he might be free. (Comp. Psalm 40:6; Isaiah 50:5). Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) A pointed instrument for piercing small holes, as in leather or wood; used by shoemakers, saddlers, cabinetmakers, etc. The blade is differently shaped and pointed for different uses, as in the brad awl, saddler's awl, shoemaker's awl, etc. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia AWL ol martsea`: "Bore his ear through with an awl" (Exodus 21:6 Deuteronomy 15:17). The ear was pierced as being the organ of hearing, thus signifying the servant's promise of obedience. See BORE.

Multi-Version Concordance Awl (2 Occurrences) Exodus 21:6 then his master shall bring him to God, and shall bring him to the door or to the doorpost, and his master shall bore his ear through with an awl, and he shall serve him for ever. (WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV) Deuteronomy 15:17 then you shall take an awl, and thrust it through his ear to the door, and he shall be your servant forever. Also to your female servant you shall do likewise. (WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)