Topical Bible: Herbs: Poisonous, not Fit for Man's Use

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the Holy Scriptures, herbs and plants are often mentioned as part of God's creation, intended for the sustenance and healing of mankind. However, there are also references and implications regarding certain plants that are not fit for human consumption due to their poisonous nature. These plants serve as a reminder of the fallen state of the world and the discernment required in the use of God's creation.

Biblical References and Symbolism

While the Bible does not explicitly list specific poisonous herbs, it does provide guidance on the discernment between what is beneficial and what is harmful. In Genesis 1:29, God gives every seed-bearing plant and tree with fruit as food for mankind, indicating that not all plants are suitable for consumption. The implication is that discernment is necessary to distinguish between what is good and what is harmful.

In Deuteronomy 29:18, the Bible warns against turning away from God and following other gods, likening such actions to "a root bearing poisonous and bitter fruit." This metaphor suggests that just as there are plants that can cause physical harm, there are spiritual paths that lead to destruction.

Historical Context and Interpretations

Throughout history, various cultures have identified and documented plants that are harmful to humans. In biblical times, the Israelites would have been aware of certain plants that were not fit for consumption, either through direct experience or through oral tradition. The Bible's lack of specific mention of poisonous herbs may be attributed to the common knowledge of such plants among the people of that time.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the existence of poisonous herbs can be seen as a consequence of the Fall. In Genesis 3, after Adam and Eve's disobedience, the ground is cursed, and thorns and thistles begin to grow (Genesis 3:17-18). This curse can be understood to extend to all aspects of creation, including the presence of harmful plants.

The presence of poisonous herbs serves as a reminder of the need for wisdom and discernment in navigating the world. Proverbs 14:12 states, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death." This verse underscores the importance of seeking God's guidance in all things, including the use of the natural world.

Practical Considerations

In practical terms, the identification and avoidance of poisonous herbs require knowledge and wisdom. In ancient times, this knowledge would have been passed down through generations, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. Today, modern science and medicine continue to study and classify plants, providing valuable information on which herbs are safe and which are not.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not provide a detailed list of poisonous herbs, it offers principles for discernment and wisdom in the use of God's creation. The presence of harmful plants serves as a reminder of the fallen state of the world and the need for reliance on God's guidance. Through careful study and understanding, believers can navigate the natural world safely, using what is beneficial and avoiding what is harmful.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 4:39,40
And one went out into the field to gather herbs, and found a wild vine, and gathered thereof wild gourds his lap full, and came and shred them into the pot of pottage: for they knew them not.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Christian Behavior
... of honour, and fit for the master's use, and prepared ... regard to this duty; yea, so
inferior as not fit to be ... subjection with all gravity; For if a man know not ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/christian behavior.htm

La Brea
... on tall trees, as they do here on herbs; size, which ... From them the , who will
not, or cannot, equal ... in which the Cassava is deprived of its poisonous juice ...
//christianbookshelf.org/kingsley/at last/chapter viii la brea.htm

The Life and Death of Mr. Badman,
... at Wimbleton in Surrey; who, after a horrible fit of swearing ... her pocket, but her
tub and sieve could not be found ... was the mirth with which the old man did use ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the life and death of.htm

The Mystery
... For if water, (but of a poisonous and pestiferous nature ... up quietly, and without
noise, like herbs and plants ... ch.23) not only erred with the impious concerning ...
//christianbookshelf.org/mede/a key to the apocalypse/the mystery 2.htm

The Water of Life;
... All such pretended supplies are poisonous. ... it had been better for such if they had
not known, than ... upon them, and that instead of bringing forth herbs meet for ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the water of life.htm

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
... the first creation; they therefore became neither herbs nor trees ... That which is diseased,
let it not be dressed ... with briers and nettles, and is fit for nothing ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm

the Legendary History of Egypt
... world those juices by which plants are made poisonous, as well ... secreting wax and
honey, the meat and herbs which are ... and a first night, it was hard not to push ...
/.../chapter iii -the legendary history of.htm