In the Bible, gall generally refers to something intensely bitter, and depending on the passage, it can describe bile, a bitter substance or plant, poison, or figuratively a condition of deep bitterness and sin. The word is especially significant in Matthew 27:34, where Jesus was offered wine mixed with gall before His crucifixion, and Acts 8:23, where Peter speaks of the “gall of bitterness.”
The biblical idea of gall therefore carries both a literal and symbolic meaning. It can describe physical bitterness, but Scripture also uses related imagery to communicate suffering, wickedness, spiritual corruption, and the painful consequences of sin.
Key Takeaways
- Gall in Scripture is associated with bitterness and, in some passages, bile or bitter substances.
- Matthew 27:34 connects gall with the drink offered to Jesus before His crucifixion.
- Mark 15:23 describes a similar drink as wine mixed with myrrh, which has led to discussion about the exact substance involved.
- Psalm 69:21 provides important Old Testament background for Matthew 27:34.
- Acts 8:23 uses “gall of bitterness” figuratively to describe Simon’s spiritually corrupted condition.
- Several Old Testament passages use “gall” imagery for poisonous or bitter plants and experiences.
- Gall can therefore symbolize suffering, bitterness, sin, spiritual bondage, and judgment, depending on its context.
- Christians should interpret each occurrence according to its immediate passage rather than assigning one symbolic meaning to every use.
The Basic Biblical Meaning of Gall
The word gall has a broader meaning in biblical English than it might have in everyday modern English.
In some passages, it refers to bile, the bitter digestive fluid associated with the body. In other contexts, biblical translators use “gall” for something bitter or poisonous, such as a bitter plant. The underlying Hebrew and Greek words do not always refer to exactly the same substance.
That distinction is important because the Bible contains several different passages translated with the English word gall.
Gall Can Mean Something Bitter
The central idea connecting many of these passages is bitterness.
Something bitter can be unpleasant to taste, but Scripture also uses bitterness as an image for experiences or conditions that are spiritually and emotionally painful.
Consequently, gall can function as a powerful biblical picture of:
- Bitter suffering
- Poisonous influences
- Sin
- Spiritual corruption
- Judgment
- Affliction
- Deep sorrow
The precise meaning depends on the passage.
What Does Gall Mean in Matthew 27:34?
One of the most familiar references appears during the crucifixion of Jesus.
Matthew 27:34 says:
“They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink.”
This occurs after Jesus has been brought to Golgotha, the place of crucifixion. Before the crucifixion proceeds, Jesus is offered a drink containing wine or vinegar mixed with gall.
The Greek word translated “gall” here is cholē (χολή). Lexical sources associate cholē with gall or bile and, by extension, bitter substances. In the New Testament, this Greek word occurs in Matthew 27:34 and Acts 8:23.
Why Was the Drink Offered?
The Gospel accounts tell us what happened, but they do not give a complete explanation of the motivation behind the drink.
Matthew says Jesus tasted it but did not drink it. Mark 15:23 describes the drink as wine mixed with myrrh rather than explicitly using the word gall.
Because Matthew and Mark describe the substance differently, scholars have discussed whether the terms refer to different ingredients or to a bitter mixture described from different perspectives.
Therefore, it is wise not to claim more certainty than the biblical text provides.
The Connection Between Gall and Psalm 69
Matthew 27:34 becomes even more meaningful when read alongside Psalm 69:21:
“They gave me also gall for my meat; and in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.”
Psalm 69 is a psalm of intense suffering. The writer describes rejection, shame, distress, and hostility from enemies.
Matthew’s account of Jesus’ suffering contains imagery that corresponds closely with this psalm. The connection helps Christians understand Jesus’ crucifixion within the broader biblical story of righteous suffering.
A Picture of Rejection and Suffering
Psalm 69 does not merely mention an unpleasant drink. The passage forms part of a larger description of affliction.
The imagery of gall and vinegar therefore contributes to the picture of suffering experienced by the psalmist.
For Christians reading the New Testament, the Gospel’s description of Jesus’ crucifixion echoes this language of suffering.
That does not mean every detail should be turned into a separate symbolic code. Instead, the broader biblical context shows how Scripture repeatedly uses bitterness and suffering imagery.
Gall in the Old Testament
The Old Testament contains several passages where English translations use the word gall.
However, these passages do not all describe literal bile.
Different Hebrew words can be translated using the English term “gall,” including words associated with bitterness, bitter plants, poison, or bile.
This is why context matters when studying the word.
Job and the Language of Suffering
Job uses gall imagery while describing terrible suffering.
Job 16:13 says:
“He poureth out my gall upon the ground.”
Here the imagery is associated with extreme physical and emotional distress.
Job’s language is poetic and vivid. He is expressing the devastating experience of his suffering rather than providing a medical explanation.
The passage reminds readers that biblical poetry often communicates emotional realities through powerful physical imagery.
Job 20 and Poison
Another example occurs in Job 20:14–16, where imagery involving gall is connected with poison.
The passage describes wickedness using language associated with something poisonous and destructive.
This creates an important biblical association:
What appears attractive or desirable in sin can ultimately become destructive.
The imagery is not teaching that gall itself is morally evil. Rather, its bitterness and poisonous associations provide a picture for the consequences of wickedness.
Gall, Wormwood, and Bitter Plants
Several Old Testament passages connect gall with wormwood or other bitter substances.
For example, Deuteronomy 29:18 warns about a “root that beareth gall and wormwood.”
The context concerns turning away from God and serving idols.
This gives the imagery a spiritual dimension.
A Root of Bitterness
The picture of a root producing something bitter is particularly meaningful.
A root is hidden beneath the surface, while its fruit eventually becomes visible.
Similarly, Scripture often presents sinful attitudes and rebellion as conditions that begin internally and eventually produce harmful results.
The imagery encourages readers to examine what is growing within their hearts.
Gall in Jeremiah
The prophet Jeremiah also uses bitter imagery when describing judgment and suffering.
Jeremiah 8:14 speaks of God giving His people “water of gall” because of their sin.
The surrounding context is one of national crisis, disobedience, and coming judgment.
Here gall imagery communicates something unpleasant that corresponds with the consequences of rebellion.
Jeremiah 23:15
Jeremiah 23:15 similarly uses bitter imagery when speaking about false prophets.
The passage connects spiritual corruption with language associated with wormwood and gall.
The larger lesson is significant:
False teaching can have bitter consequences.
Biblical warnings about spiritual deception are therefore not merely intellectual warnings. Scripture presents falsehood as something that can damage people’s relationship with God and lead them away from truth.
What Does “Gall of Bitterness” Mean in Acts 8:23?
Another major passage is Acts 8:23.
Peter says to Simon:
“For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.”
Here gall is clearly being used in a figurative spiritual sense.
Peter is not saying that Simon literally contains bile or a bitter plant. Instead, “gall of bitterness” describes Simon’s spiritual condition.
Simon’s Story
In Acts 8, Simon had previously practiced magic and was impressed when he saw the apostles perform signs.
He responded to the Christian message, but later attempted to obtain the ability to give the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands by offering money.
Peter strongly rebuked him.
The expression “gall of bitterness” communicates the seriousness of Simon’s heart condition.
Bitterness and Spiritual Bondage
Acts 8:23 places two expressions together:
- Gall of bitterness
- Bondage of iniquity
The second phrase helps explain the first.
Peter’s concern is not simply that Simon has unpleasant emotions. The problem involves his relationship to sin and his desires concerning God’s power.
This gives the phrase a broader spiritual lesson: bitterness can become connected with sinful desires, wrong motives, and spiritual bondage.
Hebrew and Greek Word Insights
Studying the original languages can help clarify why “gall” appears in different biblical contexts.
The Greek Word Cholē
The Greek noun χολή (cholē) means gall or bile and can also be used in connection with bitter substances. Lexical references identify its New Testament occurrences in Matthew 27:34 and Acts 8:23.
The word therefore connects Jesus’ crucifixion account with the figurative language Peter uses in Acts.
Hebrew Words Behind “Gall”
The Old Testament is more complicated because several Hebrew terms can appear as “gall” in English translations.
One term, mererah, is associated with bitterness and bile. Other Hebrew terms translated with similar language can refer to poisonous or bitter plants.
This is an excellent reminder that English translations sometimes use one English word to represent several related words in the original languages.
What Does Gall Symbolize in the Bible?
Gall does not have one universal symbolic meaning throughout Scripture.
Instead, its symbolism changes according to context.
| Biblical Context | Meaning or Imagery | Main Lesson |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 27:34 | Bitter drink offered to Jesus | Christ’s suffering |
| Psalm 69:21 | Gall and vinegar | Affliction and rejection |
| Acts 8:23 | Gall of bitterness | Spiritual corruption and bondage |
| Job 16:13 | Gall poured out | Severe suffering |
| Deuteronomy 29:18 | Root producing gall | Rebellion and bitter consequences |
| Jeremiah 8:14 | Water of gall | Judgment and consequences |
| Job 20:14–16 | Gall and poison | Destructive wickedness |
This table shows why a simple definition such as “gall always means bitterness” can be incomplete.
The context determines the emphasis.
Gall as a Picture of Human Bitterness
The Bible frequently uses physical experiences to communicate spiritual realities.
Bitterness is a powerful example.
A bitter taste immediately produces an unpleasant reaction. Likewise, bitterness of heart can affect relationships, decisions, attitudes, and spiritual life.
However, Christians should distinguish between experiencing pain and choosing sinful bitterness.
A person can experience grief, injustice, disappointment, or suffering without becoming spiritually hardened.
Scripture repeatedly invites hurting people to bring their pain to God.
Bringing Pain to God
The Psalms demonstrate that believers can speak honestly to God about distress.
Psalm 69 itself contains intense cries for help.
Rather than hiding pain, biblical prayer brings pain into God’s presence.
This gives the symbolism of gall a practical dimension: when life becomes bitter, Christians can respond by seeking God rather than allowing suffering to control the heart.
Bible Verses Related to Gall and Bitterness
The following passages provide useful context for studying this theme.
Psalm 69:21
“They gave me also gall for my meat; and in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.”
Context: The psalm describes suffering and rejection.
Meaning: Gall and vinegar intensify the imagery of affliction.
Life lesson: God can meet people even in seasons when circumstances feel deeply painful.
Matthew 27:34
“They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall…”
Context: Jesus is approaching His crucifixion.
Meaning: The verse contributes to the Gospel’s account of Christ’s suffering and echoes Psalm 69.
Life lesson: Jesus’ suffering was real, costly, and central to the Christian understanding of redemption.
Acts 8:23
“Thou art in the gall of bitterness…”
Context: Peter confronts Simon after Simon attempts to obtain spiritual power through money.
Meaning: Gall becomes a metaphor for a spiritually corrupted condition.
Life lesson: God cares not only about outward religious actions but also about motives and the condition of the heart.
Deuteronomy 29:18
“A root that beareth gall and wormwood.”
Context: Moses warns Israel against turning away from God.
Meaning: Rebellion is pictured as a root that can produce bitter consequences.
Life lesson: Hidden choices eventually influence visible life.
Lamentations 3:19
“Remembering mine affliction and my misery, the wormwood and the gall.”
Context: The writer remembers profound suffering.
Meaning: Bitter substances express the intensity of painful experience.
Life lesson: Biblical faith makes room for honest grief while continuing to seek God.
Proverbs 5:4
“But her end is bitter as wormwood…”
Context: The passage warns against sexual immorality.
Meaning: Sin may appear attractive initially but can produce painful consequences.
Life lesson: Wisdom considers where a choice ultimately leads.
What Can Christians Learn From Gall?
The biblical imagery of gall provides several practical lessons.
1. Sin Can Produce Bitterness
Scripture repeatedly connects rebellion and destructive choices with bitter consequences.
Therefore, Christians should not judge choices solely by their immediate appeal.
Instead, ask:
- Where will this decision lead?
- Does it honor God?
- Could it harm someone else?
- Is it consistent with biblical wisdom?
2. Pain Should Be Brought to God
Job, Jeremiah, and the Psalms demonstrate that suffering can be expressed honestly before God.
Faith does not require pretending that everything feels good.
Instead, biblical prayer allows believers to say:
“Lord, this hurts, but I will bring my pain to You.”
3. Motives Matter
Acts 8 shows that outward interest in spiritual things is not enough.
God also cares about the heart.
Consequently, Christians should regularly examine their motives and ask God for wisdom and purity.
4. Bitterness Does Not Have to Control Your Future
A painful experience can influence a person without defining that person’s entire life.
Through prayer, forgiveness, wise counsel, Scripture, and God’s grace, believers can seek freedom from destructive bitterness.
A Simple Bible Study on Gall
If you want to study this topic more deeply, read the passages in groups rather than individually.
Study Group One: Suffering
Read:
- Job 16:13
- Psalm 69:21
- Lamentations 3:19
- Matthew 27:34
Ask:
How does Scripture describe suffering through physical images of bitterness?
Study Group Two: Sin and Bitterness
Read:
- Deuteronomy 29:18
- Jeremiah 8:14
- Jeremiah 23:15
- Acts 8:23
Ask:
How does Scripture connect spiritual rebellion with bitter consequences?
Study Group Three: Wisdom
Read:
- Proverbs 5:4
- Job 20:14–16
Ask:
What do these passages teach about the consequences of destructive choices?
This approach helps readers understand individual verses within their broader biblical contexts.
Prayer for Freedom From Bitterness
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your mercy, wisdom, and grace. When life becomes painful, help us bring our burdens honestly before You. Guard our hearts from bitterness, resentment, pride, and sinful desires. Give us wisdom to recognize destructive paths before they take root. Teach us to forgive, seek truth, and walk in obedience. Through Jesus Christ, help us grow in grace and remain faithful even during difficult seasons. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gall in the Bible
What is gall in the Bible?
Gall generally refers to a bitter substance, including bile or bitter plant material, depending on the biblical context. It can also function figuratively as an image of bitterness, suffering, spiritual corruption, or judgment.
What does gall mean in Matthew 27:34?
In Matthew 27:34, gall refers to a bitter substance mixed with the drink offered to Jesus before His crucifixion. Matthew uses the Greek word cholē. The verse also echoes Psalm 69:21.
Did Jesus drink the gall?
Matthew says Jesus tasted the drink but did not continue drinking it. The Gospel specifically says that after tasting it, He would not drink it.
Is gall the same as poison?
Not always. In some biblical passages, “gall” refers to bile or a bitter substance, while in other passages the imagery is associated with poisonous plants or venom. The meaning must therefore be determined from context.
What does “gall of bitterness” mean?
In Acts 8:23, “gall of bitterness” is figurative language describing a spiritually troubled and sinful condition. Peter connects it with the “bondage of iniquity,” emphasizing the seriousness of Simon’s motives and actions.
Is gall a symbol of sin?
Gall can symbolize bitterness, sin, corruption, or judgment in certain passages, but it does not have one fixed symbolic meaning throughout the entire Bible.
What is the Hebrew meaning of gall?
Several Hebrew words are translated with the English word “gall.” Depending on the passage, they can refer to bile, bitterness, poison, or bitter plants.
What is the Greek word for gall?
The Greek word used in Matthew 27:34 and Acts 8:23 is χολή (cholē), meaning gall or bile and, by association, a bitter substance.
Why did the soldiers give Jesus wine mixed with gall?
The Gospels report that Jesus was offered the drink but do not provide a complete explanation of the reason for the mixture. Matthew calls it gall, while Mark describes wine mixed with myrrh. Scholars have discussed the relationship between these descriptions.
What does gall teach Christians today?
Gall imagery reminds Christians to take bitterness, suffering, sin, and spiritual motives seriously. Scripture encourages believers to bring suffering to God, examine their hearts, reject destructive choices, and trust God’s grace.
Finding Hope Beyond the Bitterness
The Bible’s references to gall are striking because the word can describe something physically bitter while also becoming a picture of deeper spiritual realities.
Yet the Bible does not leave suffering and bitterness without hope.
The story of Scripture continually points toward God’s mercy, redemption, forgiveness, and restoration. For Christians, the suffering of Jesus is especially important because the cross is not presented as meaningless pain. It stands at the center of the Christian proclamation of salvation.
Therefore, when asking what is gall in the Bible, the most responsible answer is not simply “a bitter substance.” Gall can refer literally to bile or another bitter substance, while biblically it can also become a powerful image of suffering, bitterness, sin, and spiritual bondage.
The lesson for believers is equally practical: do not allow the bitterness of life’s circumstances to become bitterness of the heart. Bring suffering to God, examine your motives, seek wisdom from Scripture, practice forgiveness, and continue trusting God’s grace.
Even when the road feels bitter, Scripture continually directs the believer toward the God who offers hope, mercy, and redemption.
