Ox-stick
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An ox-stick, also known as a goad, is a traditional farming implement used to drive and guide oxen during plowing or other agricultural tasks. It is typically a long, pointed stick that allows the farmer to prod the oxen, encouraging them to move in the desired direction or to increase their pace. The ox-stick is a symbol of guidance and discipline, reflecting the relationship between the farmer and the animals under his care.

Biblical References

The ox-stick is mentioned in several passages in the Bible, illustrating its practical use and symbolic significance. One of the most notable references is found in the account of Shamgar, a judge of Israel, in the Book of Judges. Judges 3:31 (BSB) states, "After Ehud came Shamgar son of Anath. He struck down six hundred Philistines with an oxgoad, and he too saved Israel." This passage highlights the ox-stick as a tool of deliverance, demonstrating how God can use ordinary means to achieve extraordinary victories.

Another significant mention of the ox-stick is in the context of Saul's conversion on the road to Damascus. In Acts 26:14 (BSB), during Paul's recounting of his encounter with Jesus, he recalls, "We all fell to the ground, and I heard a voice say to me in Hebrew, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’" Here, the goad symbolizes divine guidance and correction, illustrating the futility of resisting God's will.

Symbolism and Interpretation

In biblical symbolism, the ox-stick represents guidance, discipline, and the sometimes painful process of correction. Just as a farmer uses the goad to direct oxen, God uses various means to guide His people, often through discipline and correction. The imagery of the ox-stick serves as a reminder of the importance of submission to divine authority and the consequences of resisting God's direction.

The use of the ox-stick by Shamgar also underscores the theme of God empowering individuals to accomplish His purposes, regardless of their social status or the tools at their disposal. It reflects the biblical principle that God often chooses the weak and humble to confound the mighty, as seen throughout Scripture.

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient agrarian societies, the ox-stick was an essential tool for farmers, reflecting the dependence on animal labor for agricultural productivity. The use of oxen for plowing and other tasks was common in the ancient Near East, and the ox-stick was a practical instrument for managing these powerful animals.

The biblical references to the ox-stick provide insight into the daily life and practices of ancient Israel, as well as the broader cultural context of the time. The imagery of the ox-stick would have been familiar to the original audience of the biblical texts, making its symbolic meanings accessible and relevant.

Overall, the ox-stick serves as a multifaceted symbol within the biblical narrative, illustrating themes of guidance, discipline, and divine empowerment. Its presence in Scripture highlights the ways in which God interacts with His people, using both ordinary and extraordinary means to accomplish His purposes.
Concordance
Ox-stick (1 Occurrence)

Judges 3:31
And after him came Shamgar, the son of Anath, who put to death six hundred Philistines with an ox-stick; and he was another saviour of Israel.
(BBE)

Thesaurus
Ox-stick (1 Occurrence)
Ox-stick. Ox-goad, Ox-stick. Ozem . Multi-Version Concordance
Ox-stick (1 Occurrence). Judges 3:31 And after him came ...
/o/ox-stick.htm - 6k

Ozem (2 Occurrences)

/o/ozem.htm - 7k

Ox-goad (2 Occurrences)
Ox-goad. Oxgoad, Ox-goad. Ox-stick . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia OX-GOAD.
oks'-god. ... (See JPS ASV WBS YLT). Oxgoad, Ox-goad. Ox-stick . Reference Bible
/o/ox-goad.htm - 7k

Saviour (157 Occurrences)
... Judges 3:31 And after him came Shamgar, the son of Anath, who put to death six hundred
Philistines with an ox-stick; and he was another saviour of Israel. ...
/s/saviour.htm - 39k

Resources
What does it mean to kick against the pricks? | GotQuestions.org

What is an ox goad / oxgoad in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

How can a friend stick closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24)? | GotQuestions.org

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