Brier

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 Prov. 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.) Ezek. 28:24, sallon˒, properly a “prickle,” such as is found on the shoots of the palm tree.

(3.) Isa. 55:13, probably simply a thorny bush. Some, following the Vulgate Version, regard it as the “nettle.”

(4.) Isa. 5:6; 7:23–25, etc., frequently used to denote thorny shrubs in general. In 10:17; 27:4, it means troublesome men.

(5.) In Heb. 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. Matt. 7:16, “thistle.”