1. bile, gall: Matthew 27:34 (cf. the Sept. Psalm 68:22 ()) (cf. B. D., under the word Gall); Acts 8:23 (on which see πικρία); for מְרֵרָה, Job 16:13.

2. in the O. T. it is also used of other bitter things; for לַעֲנָה, wormwood, Proverbs 5:4; Lamentations 3:15; hence, some understand the word in Matthew 27:34 to mean myrrh, on account of Mark 15:23; but see σμυρνίζω, 2; (B. D. as above).

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The Hebrew equivalent often associated with χολή is מְרוֹרָה (merorah • Strong's Hebrew 4844), which also means "gall" or "bitterness." This term appears in the Old Testament, notably in contexts describing bitterness or suffering, such as in Job 13:26 and Lamentations 3:15.

Usage: The word χολή is used in the New Testament to describe a bitter substance offered to Jesus during His crucifixion. It is also used metaphorically to describe bitterness or harshness.

Context: • Occurrences in the New Testament: The term χολή appears in the New Testament in two significant passages. In Matthew 27:34, it is used to describe the mixture of wine and gall offered to Jesus on the cross: "There they offered Him wine to drink, mixed with gall; but after tasting it, He refused to drink it." This act fulfilled the prophecy found in Psalm 69:21, which speaks of giving gall for food. The offering of gall to Jesus is symbolic of the bitterness and suffering He endured during His crucifixion.
• Symbolic Meaning: Beyond its literal meaning, χολή carries a symbolic weight in the biblical narrative. It represents the bitterness of sin and the suffering that results from it. The refusal of Jesus to drink the gall can be seen as His acceptance of the full measure of suffering for humanity's redemption, without seeking to dull the pain.
• Cultural Context: In ancient times, gall was known for its extreme bitterness and was sometimes used as a narcotic to dull pain. The offering of gall to Jesus was likely intended as an act of mercy to ease His suffering, yet His refusal underscores His commitment to fully experience the suffering necessary for the atonement of sin.