The metaphorical meaning of “kicking against the pricks” signifies the act of resisting or rebelling against a situation or authority, despite knowing that such resistance is futile or may result in negative consequences. It represents a struggle against established norms, expectations, or systems that individuals consider unjust or restricting.

[2] Simply put – “to kick against the pricks” implies someone is resisting and in the process is hitting a sharp object. Ouch! A goad was typically a sharp stick or prod used to drive cattle. In the ancient Greek and Roman times, the phrase was a well-known expression indicating that someone was opposing a deity. [3]