Bible Dictionary
Potsherd
A potsherd is a broken fragment of earthenware. Scripture uses it as an image of weakness, humiliation, or a worthless vessel.
Definition
A potsherd is a broken fragment of earthenware or pottery. The word may also be rendered “sherd,” meaning something severed or broken from a larger vessel.
Biblical Usage
Scripture uses the potsherd as an image connected with weakness, humiliation, and the condition of an earthen vessel. Job used one to scrape himself.
Historical Background
Potsherds were ordinary fragments of earthenware. The material also refers to the ancient practice of gluing a broken potsherd together.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
A “shred”, i.e., anything severed, as a fragment of earthenware (Job 2:8; Prov. 26:23; Isa. 45:9).
Smith's Bible Dictionary
also in Authorized Version “sherd,” a broken piece of earthenware. (Proverbs 26:23)
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>pot'-shurd (cheres): A piece of earthenware (Job 2:8; Ps 22:15; Isa 45:9). the Revised Version (British and American) renders the word in Pr 26:23, "an earthen vessel," and in Job 41:30 substitutes "sharp potsherds" for "sharp stones." Sirach 22:7 refers to the art of "gluing a potsherd (ostrakon) together."</p><p>See HARSITH; OSTRACA.</p>