Thistle
NatureWhat is the meaning of Thistle in the Bible?
A prickly plant identified in Hebrew as 'hoah'. It appears in biblical texts such as 2 Kings 14:9 and Job 31:40.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying this flora helps scholars understand the agricultural landscape and metaphors for sterility or judgment in ancient Near Eastern literature.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Physical & Symbolic Reality: Physical objects and natural elements like Thistle were everyday realities for biblical writers, frequently used as living metaphors for spiritual truths.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Thistle in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Thistle clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
2 Kings 14:9Job 31:40
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Thistle." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/thistle/