Bible Dictionary
FISHHOOK
A fishhook was an ancient implement for catching fish with line and bait. Scripture mentions hooks in descriptions of fishing and uses one in Jesus’ instruction to Peter.
Definition
A fishhook is an implement used with a line and bait to catch fish. The biblical terms may also be translated hook or angle. Fishhooks were known in ancient times and were used in fishing, although nets were more common in Bible lands.
Biblical Usage
Scripture refers to hooks in descriptions of fishing and uses the fishhook in Jesus’ instruction to Peter. The American Standard Revised Version uses “fishhooks” in Job 41:1 and Amos 4:2, while other passages speak of a hook or angle.
Historical Background
Ancient Egyptian noblemen fished with hook and line in private fishpools, and Egyptian monuments depict the practice. Bronze fishhooks of very early date have been discovered. The supplied material says the hook remains in use in Bible lands, though less commonly than nets.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>fish'-hook (cir dughah, chakkah):</p><p>The word "fishhooks" occurs but twice in the American Standard Revised Version (Job 41:1; Am 4:2). In other passages the word hook or "angle" is applied to this instrument for fishing (Isa 19:8; Job 41:2). The ancient Egyptian noblemen used to amuse themselves by fishing from their private fishpools with hook and line. The Egyptian monuments show that the hook was quite commonly used for catching fish. The hook is still used in Bible lands, although not as commonly as nets. It is called a cinnarat, probably from the same root as tsinnah, the plural of which is translated hooks in Am 4:2. In Mt 17:27, agkistron (literally, "fishhook"), is rendered "hook."</p><p>James A. Patch</p>