Topical Encyclopedia The broom-plant, often referred to in biblical texts, is a shrub that holds significant symbolism and practical uses in the ancient Near East. The Hebrew word for broom-plant is "rotem," and it is commonly identified with the species Retama raetam, a desert shrub found in the arid regions of the Middle East.Biblical References: 1. 1 Kings 19:4-5 : The broom-plant is notably mentioned in the account of the prophet Elijah. After fleeing from Queen Jezebel, Elijah finds himself in the wilderness, where he sits under a broom tree. The passage states, "while he himself traveled on a day’s journey into the wilderness. He sat down under a broom tree and prayed that he might die. 'I have had enough, LORD,' he said. 'Take my life, for I am no better than my fathers.' Then he lay down under the broom tree and fell asleep." This scene highlights the broom-plant as a place of refuge and rest, even in moments of despair. 2. Job 30:3-4 : The broom-plant is also mentioned in the context of desolation and poverty. Job describes those who are destitute, saying, "Gaunt from poverty and hunger, they gnawed the dry land, and the desolate wasteland by night. They plucked mallow among the shrubs, and the roots of the broom tree were their food." Here, the broom-plant is associated with survival in harsh conditions, as its roots were used as a last resort for sustenance. 3. Psalm 120:4 : The broom-plant is metaphorically used in this psalm, which states, "Sharp arrows from the warrior, with burning coals of the broom tree!" The reference to "burning coals of the broom tree" alludes to the intense heat produced by the wood of the broom-plant when used as fuel, symbolizing the destructive power of deceitful words. Cultural and Practical Significance: In the ancient Near East, the broom-plant was valued for its practical uses. Its branches were used for making brooms, hence the name. The plant's wood was known for burning with intense heat, making it a valuable source of fuel in a region where wood was scarce. The roots, though bitter, could be consumed in times of famine, as indicated in the Book of Job. The broom-plant's ability to thrive in arid and desolate environments made it a symbol of endurance and survival. Its presence in the wilderness provided shade and shelter, offering a place of rest and reflection, as seen in the account of Elijah. Symbolism: The broom-plant's biblical symbolism is multifaceted. It represents refuge and sustenance in times of need, as well as the harsh realities of life in a fallen world. Its use in metaphorical language, such as in Psalm 120, underscores the power and intensity of certain experiences, whether they be the consuming nature of words or the trials faced by the faithful. In summary, the broom-plant serves as a poignant reminder of God's provision and the resilience required to endure life's challenges, as illustrated through its various appearances in Scripture. Strong's Hebrew 7574. rethem -- broom plant, retem... 7573, 7574. rethem or rothem. 7575 . broom plant, retem. Transliteration: rethem or rothem Phonetic Spelling: (reh'-them) Short Definition: tree. ... /hebrew/7574.htm - 6k Library Elijah's Weakness, and Its Cube Thesaurus Broom-plant (2 Occurrences)Broom-plant. Broom-coals, Broom-plant. Broom-roots . Multi-Version Concordance Broom-plant (2 Occurrences). 1 Kings ... /b/broom-plant.htm - 7k Broom (5 Occurrences) Broom-coals (1 Occurrence) Broom-roots (1 Occurrence) Stretching (84 Occurrences) Desiring (108 Occurrences) Touching (121 Occurrences) Sleep (136 Occurrences) Resources Why did God create mosquitoes? | GotQuestions.orgWhy does the Bible speak against wearing clothing made of different types of fabric? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about aromatherapy? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Broom-plant (2 Occurrences)1 Kings 19:4 1 Kings 19:5 Subtopics Related Terms |
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