Topical Encyclopedia Botanical Description: The blackberry is a perennial plant belonging to the genus Rubus in the Rosaceae family. It is characterized by its thorny stems, compound leaves, and clusters of small, white or pink flowers. The fruit, known as a blackberry, is an aggregate of drupelets, typically black or dark purple when ripe. Blackberries are native to temperate regions and are commonly found in hedgerows, woodlands, and fields. Biblical References and Symbolism: While the specific term "blackberry" does not appear in the Bible, the plant is often associated with the broader category of "brambles" or "thorns," which are mentioned in several passages. In the ancient Near East, thorny plants like brambles were common and often used metaphorically in Scripture. 1. Genesis 3:18 : "It will produce thorns and thistles for you, and you will eat the plants of the field." This verse, part of the curse following the Fall, highlights the emergence of thorns and thistles as a symbol of the earth's resistance to human labor and the consequences of sin. 2. Judges 9:14-15 : "Finally all the trees said to the thornbush, ‘Come and reign over us.’ But the thornbush replied, ‘If you really are anointing me as king over you, come and find refuge in my shade; but if not, may fire come out of the thornbush and consume the cedars of Lebanon!’" In this parable, the thornbush represents a lowly and unworthy leader, illustrating the dangers of poor leadership and the potential for destruction. 3. Isaiah 55:13 : "Instead of the thornbush, a cypress will grow, and instead of the brier, a myrtle will spring up. This will make a name for the LORD as an everlasting sign, never to be destroyed." Here, the transformation from thornbush to cypress symbolizes redemption and the restoration of creation, reflecting God's promise of renewal. Cultural and Historical Context: In biblical times, thorny plants like blackberries were often seen as nuisances, hindering agriculture and causing pain. They were used metaphorically to describe difficulties, obstacles, and the consequences of sin. The presence of thorns in the landscape served as a constant reminder of the fallen state of the world and humanity's need for redemption. Theological Implications: The imagery of thorns and brambles in the Bible often points to the themes of sin, judgment, and redemption. Thorns are a reminder of the curse brought about by the Fall, yet they also point to the hope of restoration through God's intervention. The transformation of thorny plants into fruitful or desirable vegetation symbolizes the transformative power of God's grace and the ultimate redemption of creation. Practical Applications: In a spiritual sense, the blackberry, as part of the thorny plant category, can serve as a reminder for believers to be vigilant against the "thorns" of sin and temptation in their lives. It encourages Christians to seek God's guidance and strength in overcoming obstacles and to trust in His promise of renewal and restoration. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The fruit of several species of bramble (Rubus); also, the plant itself. Rubus fruticosus is the blackberry of England; R. villosus and R. Canadensis are the high blackberry and low blackberry of the United States. There are also other kinds.Strong's Hebrew 5572. seneh -- perhaps blackberry bush... 5571, 5572. seneh. 5573 . perhaps blackberry bush. Transliteration: seneh Phonetic Spelling: (sen-eh') Short Definition: bush. Word ... /hebrew/5572.htm - 5k Thesaurus Blackberry (2 Occurrences)... Rubus fruticosus is the blackberry of England; R. villosus and R. Canadensis are the high blackberry and low blackberry of the United States. ... /b/blackberry.htm - 7k Burning (415 Occurrences) Bush (14 Occurrences) Judged (201 Occurrences) Renown (24 Occurrences) Plants (70 Occurrences) Blackberries (5 Occurrences) Bramble (7 Occurrences) Blackened (1 Occurrence) Pine (28 Occurrences) Resources Blackberry: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Blackberry (2 Occurrences)Luke 6:44 Isaiah 55:13 Subtopics Related Terms |
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