The word "sword" is used to refer to war or an attack by enemies. AT: "or cause our enemies to attack us" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
## why are you taking the people from their work? ##
This question shows anger and emphasizes that the Israelites should not be taken away from their work. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])