There are seven different Hebrew words translated 'ax' or 'axe,' with various shades of meaning. De 19:5; Jg 9:48; 2Sa 12:31; 1Ch 20:3; Ps 74:6; Jer 10:3; Eze 26:9; Mt 3:10; Lu 3:9.
And even now the axe is ready to chop down the trees [i.e., you Jewish people]. Every tree [i.e., person] that does not produce wholesome fruit [i.e., godly, repentant lives] will be cut down and thrown into the fire [i.e., the final punishment of the wicked].
and 12].
And even now the axe is also ready to chop down the trees at their roots [i.e., you Jews]. Every tree [i.e., person] that does not produce wholesome fruit [i.e., a godly life] will be cut down and thrown into the fire [i.e., the punishment of hell]."