IVY (κισσός). “They were compelled to go in procession to Bacchus, carrying ivy” (2 Macc 6:7 KJV). This plant is undoubtedly Hedera helix, a climbing plant. It is found on walls and rocks in the Holy Land, and is connected with Bacchus, the God of wine.

In ancient Rom. days, a spray of ivy hung outside the door of every tavern in which wine was sold. This sign was similar in effect to the colored, striped poles outside barbers’ shops.

The Greeks dedicated the ivy to Bacchus, and the Israelites therefore hated entering the temple of Bacchus to be made to worship, carrying his plant, the ivy.