Bible Dictionaries
Goad

Holman Bible Dictionary

A rod, generally about eight feet long, with a pointed end used to control oxen. During the time of the judges, the Israelites hired Philistine blacksmiths to “sharpen the goads” (1 Samuel 13:21 ), either by fashioning metal points for the pointed ends or making metal casings for the blunt end which might be used to knock dirt clods from the plow. Goads might be used as a weapon (Judges 3:31 ). The sayings of the wise are “goads” that “prod” thought (Ecclesiastes 12:11 ). God warned Paul not to “kick against the goads” (KJV pricks) by refusing to submit to the heavenly vision (Acts 26:14 ).