Topical Encyclopedia The mulberry tree, referenced in the Bible, is a significant plant that appears in the context of ancient Israel's landscape and culture. The Hebrew word often translated as "mulberry" is "bekhaim," which some scholars suggest may refer to the balsam tree or a similar species. However, traditional interpretations have long associated it with the mulberry tree.Biblical References: The mulberry tree is mentioned in the context of King David's military strategies. In 2 Samuel 5:23-24 , we read: "So David inquired of the LORD, and He answered, 'Do not march straight up, but circle around behind them and attack them in front of the balsam trees. As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move quickly, because this will mean the LORD has gone out in front of you to strike the Philistine army.'" This passage highlights the strategic use of the mulberry trees as a signal for divine intervention and guidance in battle. Similarly, 1 Chronicles 14:14-15 recounts the same event: "So David again inquired of God, and God answered him, 'Do not march up after them; circle around and attack them in front of the balsam trees. As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move out to battle, because God has gone out before you to strike the camp of the Philistines.'" Cultural and Symbolic Significance: In the biblical narrative, the mulberry tree serves as a symbol of God's presence and guidance. The rustling of the leaves in the tops of the trees was a divine signal for David to advance, indicating that God was actively participating in the battle. This underscores the belief in God's sovereignty and His direct involvement in the affairs of His chosen people. The mulberry tree's mention in these passages also reflects the agrarian context of ancient Israel, where trees and plants were integral to daily life and often carried symbolic meanings. The mulberry tree, with its broad leaves and sturdy nature, may have been seen as a representation of strength and resilience, qualities that were essential for the Israelites in their military campaigns and spiritual journey. Botanical Considerations: While the exact species of the tree mentioned in the Bible is debated, the mulberry tree known today (Morus species) is a deciduous tree valued for its fruit and leaves. In the ancient Near East, similar trees would have been common and utilized for various purposes, including food, shade, and possibly medicinal uses. In summary, the mulberry tree in the Bible is more than just a plant; it is a testament to God's providence and a reminder of His active role in guiding and protecting His people. The passages involving the mulberry tree encourage believers to seek divine guidance and to trust in God's timing and methods, even in the face of formidable challenges. ATS Bible Dictionary Mulberry-TreeThe word-translated mulberry-tree signifies literally weeping, and indicates some tree, which distils balsam or gum. The particular species is not known; though some think the popular, or aspen, may be intended, 2 Samuel 5:23-24; 1 Chronicles 14:14-15. Greek 4807. sukaminos -- the mulberry tree, the sycamine ... the mulberry tree, the sycamine. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: sukaminos Phonetic Spelling: (soo-kam'-ee-nos) Short Definition: a sycamore ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4807.htm - 7k 4809. sukomorea -- the fig-mulberry tree, sycamore fig Strong's Hebrew 1057. baka -- balsam tree... mulberry tree. The same as Baka'; the weeping tree (some gum- distilling tree, perhaps the balsam) -- mulberry tree. see HEBREW Baka'. 1056, 1057. baka. 1058 ... /hebrew/1057.htm - 6k Library The Adventures of Saint Denis of France. Second Great Group of Parables. The Tears of Christ. How to Pray The Ascension of Isaiah. B. The Second Stages. Chs. 13:22 to 17:10 Thesaurus Mulberry-tree (1 Occurrence)Mulberry-tree. Mulberry, Mulberry-tree. Mulberry-trees . Multi-Version Concordance Mulberry-tree (1 Occurrence). Isaiah ... /m/mulberry-tree.htm - 6k Black-mulberry-tree (1 Occurrence) Mulberry (6 Occurrences) Sycamine (1 Occurrence) Blackness (13 Occurrences) Totter (9 Occurrences) Topple (3 Occurrences) Tear (97 Occurrences) Roots (31 Occurrences) Mulberry-trees (4 Occurrences) Resources What is the Valley of Baca in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to have mustard seed faith? | GotQuestions.org Why did Jesus curse the fig tree? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Mulberry-tree (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 40:20 Subtopics Related Terms |