Topical Encyclopedia The myrtle is a fragrant evergreen shrub that holds significant symbolism and meaning within the biblical context. It is often associated with peace, prosperity, and divine blessing. The myrtle tree is native to the Mediterranean region and is characterized by its aromatic leaves and white flowers. In the Bible, the myrtle is mentioned in several passages, each highlighting different aspects of its symbolic importance.Isaiah 41:19 "I will plant in the wilderness the cedar, the acacia, the myrtle, and the olive; I will set in the desert the cypress, the plane, and the pine." In this passage, the myrtle is listed among other trees that God promises to plant in the wilderness. This act signifies transformation and renewal, as the wilderness, a place of desolation, is turned into a fertile and flourishing land. The inclusion of the myrtle emphasizes the theme of divine restoration and blessing. Isaiah 55:13 "Instead of the thornbush, a cypress will grow, and instead of the brier, a myrtle will spring up; they will make a name for the LORD, an everlasting sign, never to be destroyed." Here, the myrtle replaces the brier, symbolizing a change from desolation to beauty and abundance. This transformation serves as a testament to God's power and faithfulness, providing a sign of His everlasting covenant with His people. Nehemiah 8:15 "So they proclaimed this message in all their cities and in Jerusalem: 'Go out to the hill country and bring back branches of olive, wild olive, myrtle, palm, and other leafy trees to make booths, as it is written.'" During the Feast of Tabernacles, the Israelites were instructed to gather branches from various trees, including the myrtle, to construct booths. This practice was a reminder of their ancestors' journey through the wilderness and God's provision during that time. The myrtle, with its pleasant fragrance, contributed to the joy and celebration of the festival. Zechariah 1:8-11 "I saw at night, and behold, a man riding on a red horse, and he was standing among the myrtle trees in the ravine, with red, sorrel, and white horses behind him. Then I asked, 'What are these, my lord?' And the angel who was speaking with me said, 'I will show you what these are.' And the man standing among the myrtle trees answered, 'These are the ones the LORD has sent to patrol the earth.' And they reported to the angel of the LORD standing among the myrtle trees, 'We have patrolled the earth, and behold, all the earth is at rest and quiet.'" In Zechariah's vision, the myrtle trees serve as the setting for a divine revelation. The presence of the myrtle trees in this vision underscores themes of peace and divine oversight, as the earth is found to be at rest and quiet. The myrtle, therefore, is a symbol of God's provision, peace, and the transformation that comes through His intervention. Its presence in Scripture serves as a reminder of the beauty and abundance that God brings to His creation. Nave's Topical Index Nehemiah 8:15And that they should publish and proclaim in all their cities, and in Jerusalem, saying, Go forth to the mount, and fetch olive branches, and pine branches, and myrtle branches, and palm branches, and branches of thick trees, to make booths, as it is written. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 41:19 Isaiah 55:13 Zechariah 1:8 Library How it was Brought About that the Greeks Speak of Three Hypostases ... Extracts No. Ii. The Old Testament and Comparative Religion A Discourse The Work of Jesus Christ as an Advocate, The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: Resources Who was Hadassah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Unity Church / Unity School of Christianity? | GotQuestions.org What are the meanings of the various visions in the book of Zechariah? | GotQuestions.org Myrtle: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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