Definition and Description:
Reeds are tall, slender-leaved plants of the grass family that typically grow in wet areas. In the Bible, reeds are often mentioned in the context of marshy or watery environments, and they hold both literal and symbolic significance. The Hebrew word for reed is "qaneh," which can refer to a reed plant or a measuring rod, depending on the context.

Biblical References:

1. Natural Habitat and Usage:
Reeds are commonly found in the marshlands of the Nile Delta and along the banks of rivers and lakes in the Near East. In Exodus 2:3, the mother of Moses placed him in a basket made of papyrus reeds and set it among the reeds by the riverbank: "But when she could hide him no longer, she got a papyrus basket for him and coated it with tar and pitch. Then she placed the child in it and set it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile."

2. Symbolism and Metaphor:
Reeds are often used metaphorically in Scripture to convey fragility or instability. In 2 Kings 18:21, the prophet Isaiah uses the image of a reed to describe the unreliable support of Egypt: "Now look, you are depending on Egypt, that splintered reed of a staff, which pierces the hand of anyone who leans on it! Such is Pharaoh king of Egypt to all who depend on him."

3. Reeds in Prophecy:
Reeds are also mentioned in prophetic literature. In Isaiah 42:3, the Messiah is described as one who will not break a bruised reed, symbolizing His gentle and compassionate nature: "A bruised reed He will not break, and a smoldering wick He will not extinguish; in faithfulness He will bring forth justice."

4. Reeds in the New Testament:
In the New Testament, reeds appear in the context of the crucifixion of Jesus. In Matthew 27:29-30, a reed is used as a mock scepter during the mocking of Jesus: "And they twisted together a crown of thorns, set it on His head, and put a staff in His right hand. Then they knelt down before Him and mocked Him, saying, 'Hail, King of the Jews!' Then they spat on Him and took the staff and struck Him on the head repeatedly."

5. Reeds as Measuring Rods:
In Ezekiel 40:3, a reed is used as a measuring rod in the vision of the new temple: "He took me there, and I saw a man whose appearance was like bronze, with a linen cord and a measuring rod in his hand. And he was standing in the gateway." Similarly, in Revelation 11:1, John is given a reed like a measuring rod to measure the temple of God: "Then I was given a measuring rod like a staff and was told, 'Go and measure the temple of God and the altar, and count the number of worshipers there.'"

Cultural and Historical Context:
Reeds were an integral part of the ancient Near Eastern environment and economy. They were used for making baskets, mats, and writing materials such as papyrus. The presence of reeds in biblical narratives often highlights the geographical and cultural setting of the events described.

Theological Significance:
Reeds serve as a powerful symbol in Scripture, representing both human frailty and the gentle strength of the Messiah. The imagery of a bruised reed not being broken underscores the compassionate and restorative nature of God's dealings with humanity. Additionally, the use of reeds as measuring rods in prophetic visions signifies divine order and judgment.