Easton's Bible Dictionary: M. G. Easton, M.A., D.D.
This word occurs frequently, and is the translation of several different terms.
- Mic. 7:4, it denotes a species of thorn shrub used for hedges. In Pr. 15:19 the word is rendered "thorn" (Heb.hedek, "stinging"), supposed by some to be what is called the "apple of Sodom" (q.v.).
- Ezek. 28:24, sallon', properly a "prickle," such as is found on the shoots of the palm tree.
- Isa. 55:13, probably simply a thorny bush. Some, following the Vulgate Version, regard it as the "nettle."
- Isa. 5:6, 7:23-25, etc., frequently used to denote thorny shrubs in general. In 10:17, 27:4, it means troublesome men.
- 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. Mt. 7:16, "thistle."