### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çillôwn**, represented by `{{H5544}}`, is defined as a **prickle**, **brier**, or **thorn**. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is derived from the idea of something sharp and painful, like a prickle.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H5544}}` serves as a powerful metaphor for human antagonism and opposition. In Ezekiel's commission, he is warned not to fear the rebellious people he is sent to, "though briers and **thorns** be with thee" [[Ezekiel 2:6]]. Here, the word symbolizes the hostile and painful reception the prophet will endure. Later, in a prophecy against the nations surrounding Israel, God promises that "there shall be no more a pricking **brier** unto the house of Israel" [[Ezekiel 28:24]], using the term to represent painful, despising enemies.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are used alongside `{{H5544}}` to elaborate on the theme of painful affliction:
* `{{H5621}}` **çârâb** (brier): This word for a thistle or brier is used in direct parallel with `{{H5544}}` in [[Ezekiel 2:6]], jointly describing the hostile environment filled with rebellious people.
* `{{H6975}}` **qôwts** (thorn): Used in a similar context in [[Ezekiel 28:24]], this word for thorn is paired with the "pricking **brier**" `{{H5544}}` to describe the various afflictions Israel suffered from those around them.
* `{{H3992}}` **mâʼar** (fretting, picking): This root word, meaning to be bitter or painful, is used to describe `{{H5544}}` as a "pricking" brier, emphasizing its function as a source of pain and embitterment [[Ezekiel 28:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5544}}` is concentrated in its metaphorical application to pain and opposition.
* **Symbol of Hostility:** The word is never used to describe a literal plant. Instead, it consistently represents people who are hostile, rebellious, and cause pain, whether it is the prophet's own people or enemy nations [[Ezekiel 2:6]].
* **Source of Affliction:** As a "pricking brier" and "grieving thorn," it illustrates the persistent pain caused by those who despise God's people [[Ezekiel 28:24]].
* **Object of Divine Removal:** The promise to remove the **brier** `{{H5544}}` signifies God's power to bring an end to suffering and restore security to His people, so that they will know His sovereignty [[Ezekiel 28:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5544}}` is a specific and vivid term used exclusively in the book of Ezekiel. While its literal definition is a **brier** or **thorn**, its true significance lies in its consistent metaphorical role as a symbol for the painful antagonism and affliction faced by God's prophet and His people. It powerfully illustrates both the reality of human opposition and the certainty of divine deliverance.
TRV