Originally of flakes of stone or flint, which was retained for sacred purposes as circumcision, even after the introduction of bronze, iron, and steel (Exodus 4:25; Joshua 5:2, margin). The Egyptians never used bronze or steel in preparing the mummies, stone being regarded as purer and more sacred. Used little at meals, but for slaughtering animals and cutting up carcass (Genesis 22:6; Leviticus 7:33-34). Also by scribes for making and mending the reed pen (Jeremiah 36:23, "penknife"; see also 1 Kings 18:28). (See CIVILIZATION; JOSHUA.)