### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼâṭâd**, represented by `{{H329}}`, is defined as a thorn-tree, bramble, or thorn, from a root word suggesting something that pierces or makes fast. It appears **6 times** across **5 unique verses** and is used both as a type of thorny plant and as a proper name for a location.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H329}}` marks a specific place of sorrow in the book of Genesis. The sons of Jacob come to "the threshingfloor of **Atad**" to mourn for their father, a lamentation so great that the Canaanites who witnessed it renamed the place in recognition of the "grievous mourning" [[Genesis 50:10-11]]. The word is also used in a parable in the book of Judges, where the trees of the forest ask the lowly **bramble** to reign over them [[Judges 9:14]]. The **bramble** accepts, but with a warning that fire could come from it to consume the mighty cedars of Lebanon [[Judges 9:15]]. In Psalms, it appears as **thorns** that are swept away in a whirlwind of wrath [[Psalms 58:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H329}}` is further illuminated by its relationship to other Hebrew words:
* `{{H730}}` **ʼerez** (cedar): Defined as a **cedar** tree, this word stands in stark contrast to the bramble. In the parable of Judges, the bramble threatens to devour the great **cedars** [[Judges 9:15]]. Cedars are often associated with strength, majesty, and value, such as in the construction of David's house [[2 Samuel 7:2]] or as a metaphor for the righteous [[Psalms 92:12]], highlighting the bramble's lowly yet dangerous nature.
* `{{H784}}` **ʼêsh** (fire): This word for **fire** is the instrument of destruction threatened by the **bramble** `{{H329}}` in [[Judges 9:15]]. This connects the thorny plant to a powerful and consuming force. **Fire** in scripture often represents divine judgment, as God is called a "consuming **fire**" [[Deuteronomy 4:24]], and His word is described as being "like as a **fire**" [[Jeremiah 23:29]].
### Theological Significance
The symbolic weight of `{{H329}}` is significant, particularly in its metaphorical use.
* **Symbol of Unworthy Leadership:** In the Judges parable, the **bramble** is chosen after more worthy trees decline to rule. Its willingness to accept power, combined with its threat of fiery destruction, symbolizes a dangerous and unqualified leader who brings risk rather than protection [[Judges 9:15]].
* **Connotation of Danger and Judgment:** The word is consistently linked with negative outcomes. As **thorns**, it is associated with God's wrathful judgment [[Psalms 58:9]]. As the **bramble**, it is a source of destructive fire [[Judges 9:15]].
* **A Marker of Mourning:** When used as the proper name **Atad**, the word becomes inextricably linked to a place of "very sore lamentation" [[Genesis 50:10]], serving as a geographical reminder of grief and sorrow.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H329}}` is a word with a distinct dual identity. It is a physical location, the threshingfloor of **Atad**, which is defined by the profound sorrow that occurred there. As a plant, the **bramble** or **thorn**, it serves as a potent symbol of worthlessness, the peril of illegitimate authority, and the swiftness of divine judgment. Whether marking a place of mourning or a plant threatening destruction, **ʼâṭâd** consistently carries a sense of pain and danger.
TRV