Reed-grass, often referred to simply as "reed" in biblical texts, is a plant commonly found in marshy or wetland areas, particularly in the regions surrounding the Nile River and other bodies of water in the Near East. The Hebrew word for reed is "קָנֶה" (qaneh), which is frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing various spiritual and practical themes.

Biblical References and Symbolism

Reed-grass is mentioned in several passages throughout the Bible, often symbolizing fragility, humility, and the transient nature of life. In Isaiah 42:3, the prophet speaks of the Messiah's gentle nature: "A bruised reed He will not break, and a smoldering wick He will not extinguish; He will faithfully bring forth justice." This imagery of a bruised reed conveys the compassion and tenderness of the Messiah, who cares for the weak and vulnerable.

In the New Testament, reed-grass appears in the context of Jesus' crucifixion. Matthew 27:29-30 describes how the Roman soldiers mocked Jesus by placing a reed in His right hand as a scepter, saying, "And kneeling before Him, they mocked Him, saying, 'Hail, King of the Jews!' Then they spat on Him and took the reed and struck Him on the head." Here, the reed symbolizes the mockery and humiliation that Jesus endured, yet it also underscores His kingship and the fulfillment of prophecy.

Practical Uses

In ancient times, reed-grass had several practical applications. It was used for making writing materials, such as papyrus, which was crafted from the pith of the papyrus reed. This made it an essential component of record-keeping and communication in the ancient world. Additionally, reeds were used in constructing baskets, mats, and even simple musical instruments like flutes.

Cultural and Environmental Context

Reed-grass thrives in the fertile regions of the Nile Delta and other similar environments, where its presence is indicative of water and life. Its growth in these areas made it a familiar sight to the people of biblical times, who would have understood its symbolic meanings intuitively. The plant's ability to grow in challenging conditions also serves as a metaphor for resilience and adaptability.

Theological Implications

The use of reed-grass in Scripture often points to deeper theological truths. Its fragility serves as a reminder of human weakness and the need for divine strength. The imagery of a bruised reed not being broken speaks to God's mercy and grace, offering hope to those who feel crushed by life's burdens. Furthermore, the reed's role in the Passion narrative highlights the paradox of Christ's suffering and sovereignty.

In summary, reed-grass in the Bible is a multifaceted symbol that conveys themes of humility, resilience, and divine compassion. Its presence in Scripture invites believers to reflect on their own dependence on God and the enduring nature of His love and justice.REED-GRASS

(Genesis 41:2, 18 Job 8:11 margin).

See FLAG, (2); REED, (1).

Joseph and his Brethren
... river. And, behold, there came up out of the river seven kine, well favoured
and fatfleshed; and they fed in the reed-grass. And ...
/.../select masterpieces of biblical literature/i joseph and his brethren.htm

Reedgrass (1 Occurrence)
...Reedgrass (1 Occurrence). Genesis 41:18 and, behold, there came up out of the river
seven kine, fat-fleshed and well-favored: and they fed in the reed-grass: ( ...
/r/reedgrass.htm - 7k

Reed-grass (3 Occurrences)
Reed-grass. Reedgrass, Reed-grass. Reed-plants . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ...
(See JPS DBY). Reedgrass, Reed-grass. Reed-plants . Reference Bible.
/r/reed-grass.htm - 7k

Meadow (8 Occurrences)
... or water-plant. In the Revised Version it is rendered "reed-grass", ie,
the sedge or rank grass by the river side. (2.) Hebrews ...
/m/meadow.htm - 12k

Grazed (3 Occurrences)
...reed-grass. (See NAS NIV). Genesis 41:18 And, behold, there came up out of the river
seven kine, fat-fleshed and well-favoured; and they fed in the reedgrass. ...
/g/grazed.htm - 7k

Well-favored (7 Occurrences)
... (ASV). Genesis 41:2 And, behold, there came up out of the river seven kine,
well-favored and fat-fleshed; and they fed in the reed-grass. (ASV WBS). ...
/w/well-favored.htm - 8k

Well-favoured (4 Occurrences)
... Genesis 41:2 And, behold, there came up out of the river seven kine, well-favored
and fat-fleshed; and they fed in the reed-grass. (See JPS). ...
/w/well-favoured.htm - 7k

Fat-fleshed (2 Occurrences)
... Fat-fleshed (2 Occurrences). Genesis 41:2 And, behold, there came up out of the
river seven kine, well-favored and fat-fleshed; and they fed in the reed-grass. ...
/f/fat-fleshed.htm - 7k

Flag (30 Occurrences)
... (2) 'achu (Genesis 41:2, 18, the King James Version "meadow," the Revised Version
(British and American) "reed-grass"; Job 8:11, "Can the rush grow up without ...
/f/flag.htm - 18k

Reed (41 Occurrences)
... river seven kine, well-favored and fat-fleshed; and they fed in the reed-grass. ... river
seven kine, fat-fleshed and well-favoured; and they fed in the reedgrass. ...
/r/reed.htm - 29k

Fine-looking (3 Occurrences)
... Fine-looking (3 Occurrences). Genesis 41:2 And behold, there came up out of the
river seven kine, fine-looking and fat-fleshed, and they fed in the reed-grass. ...
/f/fine-looking.htm - 7k

What does it mean that “a bruised reed He will not break” in Matthew 12:20? | GotQuestions.org

Did the Israelites in the book of Exodus cross the Red Sea or the Reed Sea? | GotQuestions.org

What does it mean that “the smoking flax He will not quench” in Matthew 12:20? | GotQuestions.org

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