Topical Encyclopedia
The tamarisk-tree, known scientifically as the genus
Tamarix, is a small to medium-sized tree or shrub that is mentioned in the Bible and holds significance in biblical narratives. It is characterized by its slender branches, feathery foliage, and small, scale-like leaves. The tree is well-suited to arid environments, often found in desert regions and along watercourses in the Middle East.
Biblical References:
1.Genesis 21:33 · The tamarisk-tree is first mentioned in the context of Abraham's life. "Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba, and there he called on the name of the LORD, the Eternal God" . This act of planting a tamarisk-tree by Abraham is significant as it symbolizes his long-term commitment to the land and his faith in God's promises. The tree served as a landmark and a place of worship, indicating Abraham's desire to establish a lasting presence in the land God had promised to him and his descendants.
2.1 Samuel 22:6 · The tamarisk-tree is also mentioned in the narrative of King Saul. "Now Saul heard that David and his men had been discovered. And at that time, Saul was in Gibeah, sitting under the tamarisk tree on the hill with his spear in hand, and all his servants standing around him" . Here, the tamarisk-tree serves as a setting for Saul's court, symbolizing his authority and the centralization of his power. The tree provides shade and a gathering place, reflecting its practical use in the harsh climate of the region.
Cultural and Symbolic Significance:
The tamarisk-tree is often associated with endurance and resilience due to its ability to thrive in harsh, arid conditions. Its deep root system allows it to access underground water sources, making it a symbol of sustenance and survival. In biblical times, the tree was valued for its wood, which was used for various purposes, including construction and fuel.
In the context of Abraham's account, the tamarisk-tree represents a covenantal relationship with God, as Abraham calls upon the "Eternal God" in its presence. This act signifies a deep trust in God's everlasting nature and His promises to Abraham and his descendants.
In Saul's narrative, the tamarisk-tree serves as a backdrop to the unfolding drama of his kingship and his pursuit of David. It highlights the tension between Saul's earthly authority and the divine anointing of David as the future king of Israel.
Botanical Characteristics:
The tamarisk-tree is known for its ability to excrete salt through its leaves, which can create a saline environment around its base, inhibiting the growth of other plants. This characteristic underscores its adaptability and dominance in certain ecosystems. The tree produces small, pink or white flowers, which add to its aesthetic appeal.
Overall, the tamarisk-tree in the Bible is a multifaceted symbol, representing faith, endurance, authority, and the complex interplay between human actions and divine providence. Its presence in key biblical narratives underscores its importance in the cultural and spiritual landscape of the ancient Near East.Strong's Hebrew
815. eshel -- atamarisk tree
... 814, 815. eshel. 816 . atamarisk tree. Transliteration: eshel Phonetic
Spelling: (ay'-shel) Short Definition: tree. Word Origin...
Library
Version ii.
... they went on, and as they drew nigh to the city, about three furlongs from it, they
found a great tree having three hundred branches, like to atamarisk tree....
The Early Training of a Race.
... of this South Country. They then gather the gum that exudes from thetamarisk
tree or the lichens from the rocks. From these they...
The Cost of a Lie
... When Saul heard that David and the men with him had been found, he was sitting in
Gibeah, under thetamarisk-tree at the high place, with his spear in his hand...
Chapter xxi
... the Philistines. And Abraham planted atamarisk tree in Beersheba, and called
there upon Yahweh, the Everlasting God. The visitors...
Thesaurus
Tamarisk-tree (3 Occurrences)Tamarisk-
tree. Tamarisk,
Tamarisk-
tree. Tambour . Multi-Version
Concordance
Tamarisk-
tree (3 Occurrences). Genesis 21
...Tamarisk (5 Occurrences)
... Tamarisk (5 Occurrences). Genesis 21:33 Abraham planted atamarisktree in Beersheba,
and called there on the name of Yahweh, the Everlasting God....
Grove (23 Occurrences)
... In 1 Samuel 22:6 and 31:13 the Authorized Version renders this word by "tree." In
all these passages the Revised Version renders by "tamarisktree." It has...
Beersheba (33 Occurrences)
... "Abraham planted atamarisktree in Beer-sheba, and called there on the name
of Yahweh, the Everlasting God" Genesis (Genesis 21:33)....
Tambour (7 Occurrences)
Jabesh (21 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). 1 Samuel 31:13 They took their bones,
and buried them under thetamarisktree in Jabesh, and fasted seven days....
Fasted (20 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS NAS RSV NIV). 1 Samuel 31:13 They took their bones, and
buried them under thetamarisktree in Jabesh, and fasted seven days....
Manna (19 Occurrences)
... The manna of the Sinaitic peninsula is an exudation from the "manna-tamarisk"
tree (Tamarix mannifera), the el-tarfah of the Arabs....
Beer-sheba (33 Occurrences)
... (ASV BBE DBY JPS WBS YLT RSV). Genesis 21:33 And Abraham planted atamarisktree
in Beer-sheba, and called there on the name of Jehovah, the Everlasting God....
Discovered (46 Occurrences)
... Now Saul was sitting in Gibeah, under thetamarisktree in Ramah, with his spear
in his hand, and all his servants were standing about him....
Resources
Why are there contradictory accounts regarding the death of Saul in 1 and 2 Samuel? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Jesus curse the fig tree? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of the olive tree in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
Bible Thesuarus
