Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Identification Shittim wood, also known as acacia wood, is a significant material mentioned in the Bible, particularly in the construction of sacred objects and structures. The term "shittim" is derived from the Hebrew word "shittah," which refers to the acacia tree, a thorny tree native to the Sinai Peninsula and regions of the Middle East. The wood is known for its durability, resistance to decay, and fine grain, making it an ideal material for construction and craftsmanship. Biblical References Shittim wood is prominently featured in the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, as described in the Book of Exodus. The Lord instructed Moses to use this wood for various sacred items, emphasizing its importance and sanctity. 1. The Ark of the Covenant: In Exodus 25:10, God commands, "They are to construct an ark of acacia wood—two and a half cubits long, a cubit and a half wide, and a cubit and a half high." The Ark, a central and sacred object, was made from shittim wood and overlaid with pure gold, symbolizing the divine presence and covenant between God and Israel. 2. The Table for the Bread of the Presence: Exodus 25:23 states, "You are also to make a table of acacia wood two cubits long, a cubit wide, and a cubit and a half high." This table held the Bread of the Presence, representing God's provision and fellowship with His people. 3. The Altar of Burnt Offering: In Exodus 27:1, the Lord instructs, "You are to construct the altar of acacia wood, five cubits long and five cubits wide—the altar is to be square—and three cubits high." The altar was central to the sacrificial system, highlighting the role of atonement and worship. 4. The Poles and Framework: Shittim wood was also used for the poles and framework of the Tabernacle, as seen in Exodus 26:15, "You are to make upright frames of acacia wood for the tabernacle." Symbolism and Significance Shittim wood holds deep symbolic meaning within the biblical narrative. Its use in the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings underscores themes of purity, strength, and endurance. The wood's resistance to decay can be seen as a metaphor for the eternal and unchanging nature of God's covenant with His people. Additionally, the acacia tree's ability to thrive in arid conditions may symbolize resilience and faithfulness amidst adversity. Cultural and Historical Context The acacia tree, from which shittim wood is derived, is well-suited to the harsh desert environment of the Sinai Peninsula. Its prevalence in the region made it a practical choice for the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The use of locally available materials reflects God's provision and the adaptability of His people in fulfilling divine instructions. Theological Implications The use of shittim wood in the Tabernacle's construction highlights the intersection of the natural and the divine. It serves as a reminder that God uses the ordinary elements of creation to accomplish His extraordinary purposes. The transformation of simple wood into sacred objects illustrates the sanctification process, where the mundane is elevated to the holy through divine intention and craftsmanship. In summary, shittim wood is a testament to God's provision, the sanctity of worship, and the enduring nature of His covenant with Israel. Its presence in the biblical narrative invites reflection on the relationship between the Creator and His creation, as well as the call to holiness and devotion. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Shittim WoodSHITTAH; TREE; SHITTIM WOOD shit'a, (shiTTah; Septuagint xulon asepton; the Revised Version (British and American) ACACIA TREE (Isaiah 41:19)); (`ace shiTTim; the Revised Version (British and American) ACACIA WOOD (Exodus 25:5, 10, 13; Exodus 26:15, 26; 27:1, 6 Deuteronomy 10:3)): The word was originally shinTah, derived from the Arabic sanT, now a name confined to one species of acacia, Acacia nilotica (Natural Order, Leguminosae), but possibly was once a more inclusive term. The Acacia nilotica is at present confined to the Sinaitic peninsula and to Egypt. Closely allied species, the Acacia tortilis and Acacia seyal, both classed together under the Arabic name sayyal, are plentiful in the valleys about the Dead Sea from Engedi southward. Those who have ridden from `Ain Jidy to Jebel Usdum will never forget these most striking features of the landscape. They are most picturesque trees with their gnarled trunks, sometimes 2 ft. thick, their twisted, thorny branches, which often give the whole tree an umbrella-like form, and their fine bipinnate leaves with minute leaflets. The curiously twisted pods and the masses of gum arabic which exude in many parts are also peculiar features. The trees yield a valuable, hard, close-grained timber, not readily attacked by insects. Strong's Hebrew 7848. shittah -- acacia (a tree and a wood)... only in the plural shittiym {shit-teem'}; meaning the sticks of wood) from the same as shotet; the acacia (from its scourging thorns) -- shittah, shittim. ... /hebrew/7848.htm - 6k Library Sikera, a Manufactured and Spurious Wine, yet Intoxicating; Things ... How Intent the Ruler Ought to be on Meditations in the Sacred Law. Scriptural Types. An Old Subscription List Introduction The Power of Little Things. Importance of Small Things in Religion Greek and Jew The Road to Pella A Prince's Bride Resources What is the significance of Shittim in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was Baal Peor in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Places Outside Israel ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org Shittim: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Shittim: Also Called Abel-Shittim Shittim: Also Called Abel-Shittim: A Camping Place of Israel Shittim: Also Called Abel-Shittim: Balaam Prophesies In Shittim: Also Called Abel-Shittim: Joshua Sends Spies From Shittim: Also Called Abel-Shittim: The Valley of Shittim: Also Called Shittah, a Tree, the Wood of Which is Fragrant: Planted and Cultivated Shittim: Also Called Shittah, a Tree, the Wood of Which is Fragrant: The Ark of the Covenant Made of Shittim: The Staves of the Ark of the Covenant Made of Related Terms Beth-jeshimoth (4 Occurrences) |
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