Brier: This word occurs frequently, and is the translation of several
different terms.1.
(Micah 7:4) it denotes a species of thorn shrub used for hedges. In
(Proverbs 15:19) the word is rendered "thorn" (Heb. hedek,
"stinging"), supposed by some to be what is called the "apple of
Sodom" (q.v.).
2.
(Ezekiel 28:24) sallon, properly a "prickle," such as is found on
the shoots of the palm tree.
3.
(Isaiah 55:13) probably simply a thorny bush. Some, following the
Vulgate Version, regard it as the "nettle."
4.
(Isaiah 5:6; 7:23-25) etc., frequently used to denote thorny shrubs
in general. In
(Isaiah 10:17; 27:4) it means troublesome men.
5. In
(Hebrews 6:8) the Greek word (tribolos) so rendered means
"three-pronged," and denotes the land caltrop, a low throny
shrub resembling in its spikes the military "crow-foot." Comp.
(Matthew 7:16) "thistle."
