Definition and Symbolism
In biblical literature, "green trees" often symbolize life, fertility, and prosperity due to their lush and vibrant nature. They are frequently mentioned in the context of worship, both true and false, and serve as a backdrop for various biblical events and teachings.

Biblical References
Green trees are mentioned numerous times throughout the Bible, often in relation to idolatrous practices. In Deuteronomy 12:2 , the Israelites are commanded to "destroy completely all the places on the high mountains, on the hills, and under every green tree where the nations you are dispossessing worship their gods." This indicates that green trees were commonly associated with pagan worship sites, where altars and idols were set up.

In 1 Kings 14:23 , it is recorded that the people of Judah "built for themselves high places, sacred pillars, and Asherah poles on every high hill and under every green tree." This further illustrates the connection between green trees and idolatry, as the people turned away from the worship of Yahweh to engage in the practices of surrounding nations.

Prophetic Warnings
The prophets frequently spoke against the use of green trees in idolatrous worship. In Jeremiah 2:20 , God laments through the prophet, "For long ago you broke your yoke and tore off your bonds, saying, 'I will not serve!' Indeed, on every high hill and under every green tree you lay down as a prostitute." Here, the imagery of green trees is used to depict Israel's unfaithfulness and spiritual adultery.

Ezekiel also uses the imagery of green trees in his prophecies. In Ezekiel 6:13 , God declares, "And they will know that I am the LORD, when their slain lie among their idols around their altars, on every high hill, on all the mountaintops, under every green tree and every leafy oak—the places where they offered fragrant incense to all their idols." This passage underscores the judgment that would come upon those who engaged in idolatry under green trees.

Positive Imagery
While green trees are often associated with idolatry, they also appear in positive contexts. In Psalm 1:3 , the righteous man is compared to "a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, and who prospers in all he does." Here, the green tree symbolizes spiritual vitality and prosperity for those who delight in the law of the Lord.

In the prophetic vision of Ezekiel 17:24 , God declares, "All the trees of the field will know that I am the LORD; I bring down the tall tree and make the low tree grow tall. I dry up the green tree and make the dry tree flourish. I, the LORD, have spoken, and I will do it." This passage highlights God's sovereignty and ability to reverse fortunes, using the imagery of green and dry trees to convey His power over creation.

Theological Implications
The recurring theme of green trees in the Bible serves as a reminder of the tension between true worship and idolatry. While green trees can symbolize life and blessing, they also represent the temptation to turn away from God and follow false practices. The biblical narrative consistently calls believers to discernment and faithfulness, urging them to worship the Creator rather than the creation.