The term "Holmtree" does not appear explicitly in the canonical texts of the Bible. However, the concept of trees holds significant symbolic and literal importance throughout the Scriptures. Trees are often used as metaphors for spiritual truths, moral lessons, and divine creation. In exploring the idea of a "Holmtree," one might consider the broader biblical context of trees and their spiritual significance.

Biblical Symbolism of Trees

1. The Tree of Life and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil: In the Genesis account of creation, two specific trees are mentioned in the Garden of Eden. The Tree of Life and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil (Genesis 2:9) represent pivotal elements in the narrative of humanity's fall and the promise of eternal life. The Tree of Life symbolizes God's provision and eternal life, while the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil represents the boundary set by God and the choice of obedience or rebellion.

2. The Cedar of Lebanon: The cedar tree is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a symbol of strength and majesty. In Psalm 92:12, the righteous are compared to a flourishing palm tree and a cedar in Lebanon, indicating stability and prosperity: "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, and grow like a cedar in Lebanon."

3. The Olive Tree: The olive tree is a symbol of peace, prosperity, and the covenant relationship between God and His people. In Romans 11, the Apostle Paul uses the olive tree as a metaphor for Israel and the Gentiles, illustrating the inclusion of Gentiles into the promises of God through faith in Christ.

4. The Fig Tree: The fig tree is often used in prophetic literature as a symbol of Israel. In the New Testament, Jesus uses the fig tree in parables and teachings to convey messages about faith, judgment, and the coming Kingdom of God (Matthew 21:18-22).

5. The Vine: In John 15:5, Jesus declares, "I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me, and I in him, will bear much fruit. For apart from Me you can do nothing." The vine represents the intimate relationship between Christ and His followers, emphasizing dependence on Him for spiritual vitality and fruitfulness.

Trees as Places of Divine Encounter

Throughout the Bible, trees are often associated with significant encounters with God. For example, Abraham met with God by the oaks of Mamre (Genesis 18:1), and Moses encountered the burning bush on Mount Horeb (Exodus 3:2). These instances highlight trees as places where the divine and human intersect, serving as reminders of God's presence and revelation.

The Cross as a Tree

In the New Testament, the crucifixion of Jesus is sometimes referred to as being "hung on a tree" (Acts 5:30, 10:39, 13:29). This language connects the cross to the Old Testament law in Deuteronomy 21:22-23, where a hanged man is cursed. Through His death on the cross, Jesus bore the curse of sin, offering redemption and reconciliation with God.

Conclusion

While the specific term "Holmtree" is not found in the Bible, the rich tapestry of tree imagery throughout Scripture provides profound insights into God's character, human nature, and the unfolding plan of redemption. Trees serve as powerful symbols of life, growth, and divine interaction, pointing believers to the deeper spiritual truths embedded in God's creation and His Word.HOLM-TREE

hom'-tre:

(1) tirzah (Isaiah 44:14, the King James Version "cypress"): The name, from the root meaning (compare Arabic taraza) "to be hard," implies some very hard wood. Vulgate (Jerome's Latin Bible, 390-405 A.D.) has ilex, which is Latin for holm oak, so named from its holly-like leaves (hollen in Old English = "holly"); this translation has now been adopted, but it is doubtful.

(2) prinos, Susanna verse 58. This is the ilex or holm oak. There is a play on the words prinos and prisai (literally, "saw") in verses 58 and 59 (see SUSANNA). The evergreen or holm oak is represented by two species in Palestine, Quercus ilex and Q. coccifera. The leaf of both species is somewhat like a small holly leaf, is glossy green and usually spiny. The Q. ilex is insignificant, but Q. coccifera is a magnificent tree growing to a height of 40 ft. or more, and often found in Palestine flourishing near sacred tombs, and itself not infrequently the object of superstitious veneration.

E. W. G. Masterman

Holmtree

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Holm-tree
Holm-tree. Holmtree, Holm-tree. Holofernes . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia
HOLM-TREE. ... EWG Masterman. Holmtree, Holm-tree. Holofernes . Reference Bible
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Holm-oak (1 Occurrence)
Holm-oak. Hollows, Holm-oak. Holmtree . Multi-Version Concordance Holm-oak
(1 Occurrence). ... (See JPS). Hollows, Holm-oak. Holmtree . Reference Bible.
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