Topical Encyclopedia A thorn-hedge, as referenced in the Bible, serves as a metaphorical and literal symbol with various implications in the scriptural context. In the ancient Near Eastern landscape, thorn-hedges were commonly used as protective barriers around vineyards and fields to keep out animals and intruders. The imagery of a thorn-hedge is employed in the Bible to convey themes of protection, obstruction, and divine judgment.Biblical References: 1. Protection and Obstruction: Thorn-hedges are often associated with the idea of protection and obstruction. In the book of Hosea, God uses the imagery of a thorn-hedge to describe His protective yet obstructive actions towards Israel. Hosea 2:6 states, "Therefore, behold, I will hedge up her way with thorns; I will enclose her with a wall, so that she cannot find her paths." Here, the thorn-hedge symbolizes God's intervention to prevent Israel from pursuing idolatrous paths, serving as both a barrier and a means of guidance back to righteousness. 2. Divine Judgment: The thorn-hedge is also a symbol of divine judgment and the consequences of folly. Proverbs 15:19 contrasts the path of the sluggard with that of the upright: "The way of the sluggard is like a hedge of thorns, but the path of the upright is a highway." This proverb illustrates how laziness and moral negligence can lead to a life filled with difficulties and obstructions, akin to being entangled in a thorn-hedge. In contrast, the righteous enjoy a clear and unobstructed path. 3. Symbol of Futility: In the book of Micah, thorn-hedges are used to depict the futility and frustration of those who turn away from God. Micah 7:4 states, "The best of them is like a brier; the most upright is sharper than a hedge of thorns. The day of your watchmen has come, the day of your visitation. Now is the time of their confusion." This passage highlights the moral decay and impending judgment upon the people, where even the best among them are compared to thorny barriers, emphasizing their inability to produce good fruit or provide true guidance. Theological Implications: The thorn-hedge serves as a powerful metaphor in biblical theology, illustrating the dual nature of God's interaction with humanity. It represents both His protective care and His righteous judgment. The thorn-hedge can be seen as a divine tool used to redirect, discipline, and ultimately restore His people to a path of righteousness. It underscores the importance of obedience and the consequences of straying from God's commandments. In the broader biblical narrative, the thorn-hedge also points to the reality of sin and its entangling effects on human life. It serves as a reminder of the need for divine intervention and the transformative power of God's grace to clear the path for those who seek Him earnestly. Strong's Hebrew 4534. mesukah -- a hedge... Word Origin from suk Definition a hedge NASB Word Usage thorn hedge (1). thorn hedge. For msuwkah; a hedge -- thorn hedge. see HEBREW msuwkah. 4533, 4534. ... /hebrew/4534.htm - 6k Library The First Lie. The Hedge of Thorns and the Plain Way Ahaz Interruption of the visions of the Passion by the Appearance of St ... The Broken Fence New Teaching in Parables' - the Parables to the People by the Lake ... The Strait Gate; Thesaurus Thorn-hedge (1 Occurrence)Thorn-hedge. Thorn-fence, Thorn-hedge. Thorn-hedges . Multi-Version Concordance Thorn-hedge (1 Occurrence). Micah 7:4 ... /t/thorn-hedge.htm - 6k Hedge (12 Occurrences) Visits (4 Occurrences) Occur (13 Occurrences) Thorn-fence (1 Occurrence) Thorn-hedges (1 Occurrence) Perplexity (8 Occurrences) Brier (10 Occurrences) Sharper (4 Occurrences) Thorn (30 Occurrences) Resources What is a hedge of protection? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was Paul's thorn in the flesh? | GotQuestions.org Is it wrong to want to die? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Thorn-hedge (1 Occurrence)Micah 7:4 Subtopics Related Terms |
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