### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qôwts**, represented by `{{H6975}}`, literally means **thorn**. It appears **12 times** across **12 unique verses** in the Bible. While it can refer to a physical plant, it is frequently used to symbolize curse, judgment, and people who are wicked or troublesome.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narrative, `{{H6975}}` is first introduced as a consequence of the curse on the ground [[Genesis 3:18]]. It frequently symbolizes divine judgment and desolation, as seen in prophecies where **thorns** are said to come up{H5927} on the altars{H4196} of a sinful Israel [[Hosea 10:8]] or upon the land of a disobedient people [[Isaiah 32:13]]. Figuratively, it represents worthless or painful outcomes, as when the people of Judah are warned not to sow{H2232} among **thorns** [[Jeremiah 4:3]], and that sowing wheat{H2406} would only reap{H7114} **thorns** [[Jeremiah 12:13]]. The word is also used to describe a tool for harsh punishment, as when Gideon{H1439} taught the men of Succoth a lesson with **thorns** of the wilderness [[Judges 8:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of thorns, judgment, and worthless things:
* `{{H1863}}` **dardar** (thistle): This term for **thistle** is frequently paired with `{{H6975}}` to represent the unproductive and cursed state of the land after the fall [[Genesis 3:18]] and as a sign of judgment upon altars of sin [[Hosea 10:8]].
* `{{H8068}}` **shâmîyr** (brier): Often translated as **brier**, this word appears with **thorns** to denote the overgrowth on desolate land, a physical manifestation of judgment upon the people [[Isaiah 32:13]].
* `{{H1100}}` **bᵉlîyaʻal** (wickedness): The concept of **wickedness** is directly linked to thorns, as the sons of **Belial** are described as being like **thorns** that are thrust away{H5074}, too dangerous to be taken{H3947} by hand{H3027} [[2 Samuel 23:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6975}}` is tied to its consistent use as a symbol of negative spiritual realities.
* **The Curse of Sin:** From its first appearance, the **thorn** is a direct result of the curse on the ground, representing a world broken by sin and the painful toil that follows [[Genesis 3:18]]. This theme is echoed in prophecies where fruitless labor results in reaping **thorns** [[Jeremiah 12:13]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The presence of **thorns** signifies God's judgment. They overrun idolatrous high places{H1116} [[Hosea 10:8]] and joyous{H5947} cities{H7151} [[Isaiah 32:13]] as a physical sign of spiritual desolation.
* **Representation of Wickedness:** Scripture compares wicked people, specifically the "sons of Belial," to **thorns** that are harmful and must be thrust away and burned{H3341} ([[2 Samuel 23:6]], [[Isaiah 33:12]]). Enemies of Israel are also described as a "grieving{H3510} **thorn**" [[Ezekiel 28:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6975}}` transcends its simple definition as a **thorn**. It serves as a potent and recurring biblical symbol for the consequences of sin, from the initial curse upon the land to the judgment enacted upon a disobedient nation. Whether representing fruitless labor, desolate places, or wicked individuals fit for destruction, **qôwts** consistently points to pain, difficulty, and the corrupting influence of that which stands in opposition to God's will.
TRV