The "Reed" and "Hyssop" in the Gospels

The differing accounts of the object used to offer Jesus a drink on the cross, specifically the mention of a "reed" in Matthew and Mark versus "hyssop" in John, present a long-standing point of discussion among biblical scholars. The core issue revolves around the botanical accuracy, textual integrity, and symbolic implications of these varying descriptions.

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The Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) describe the object as a "reed" (Greek: kalamos). This term generally refers to a plant with a long, slender stem, often used for writing or measuring. The most likely candidate for this reed is Arundo donax, commonly known as giant reed, a plant that grows abundantly in the Mediterranean region and can reach heights of up to 20 feet.[1] John, however, specifies "hyssop" (Greek: hyssopos). Hyssop is a small, bushy plant, often associated with ritual cleansing in the Old Testament.

The discrepancy between the "reed" and "hyssop" has led to several interpretations. Some scholars suggest that John's account is more accurate, arguing that hyssop would have been more readily available for the purpose of offering a drink to Jesus. Others propose that the "reed" was used to lift the sponge to Jesus's mouth, and John's account may be referring to the hyssop being attached to the reed. Another possibility is that John uses "hyssop" symbolically, drawing a parallel to the use of hyssop in the Passover ritual, which foreshadows Jesus's sacrifice.[2] The symbolic association of hyssop with purification and sacrifice would be fitting in the context of the crucifixion. The textual variations could also be due to scribal errors or different sources used by the Gospel writers.

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