Topical Encyclopedia The cedar tree holds a significant place in the biblical narrative, symbolizing strength, beauty, and divine glory. Known for its majestic stature and durable wood, the cedar is frequently mentioned in Scripture, often in connection with the grandeur of Israel and the splendor of God's creation.Biblical References and Symbolism The cedar of Lebanon is the most frequently mentioned species in the Bible. Its towering height and expansive branches made it a symbol of power and nobility. In the poetic and prophetic literature, the cedar is often used metaphorically to describe the majesty of God's creation and the prosperity of His people. In the Psalms, the cedar is celebrated for its strength and beauty: "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, and grow like a cedar in Lebanon" (Psalm 92:12). This imagery conveys the idea of spiritual vitality and enduring faithfulness, attributes that are ascribed to those who live in accordance with God's will. The cedar's association with beauty and glory is further emphasized in the construction of the Temple of Solomon. The temple, a central place of worship and a symbol of God's presence among His people, was built using cedar wood. In 1 Kings 6:9-10, we read, "So he built the temple and finished it, and he covered the temple with beams and boards of cedar. He built chambers all around the temple, each five cubits high and attached to the temple with beams of cedar" . The use of cedar in the temple's construction highlights its importance and the reverence with which it was regarded. Cedar in Prophetic Imagery The prophets also employed the imagery of the cedar to convey messages of judgment and restoration. In Ezekiel 31, the cedar is used as a metaphor for the Assyrian empire, illustrating its former greatness and subsequent downfall: "Consider Assyria, once a cedar in Lebanon, with beautiful branches overshadowing the forest, and of great height, with its top among the clouds" (Ezekiel 31:3). This passage serves as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly power and the ultimate sovereignty of God. Conversely, the cedar is also a symbol of hope and renewal. In Isaiah 41:19, God promises to plant cedars in the desert as a sign of His provision and blessing: "I will plant cedars in the desert, acacias, myrtles, and olive trees; I will set pines in the wasteland, firs, and cypresses together" . This prophetic vision speaks to the restoration and flourishing of God's people, even in the most desolate circumstances. Cedar in Wisdom Literature The wisdom literature of the Bible also reflects on the cedar's significance. In the Song of Solomon, the cedar is used to describe the beloved's beauty and strength: "His appearance is like Lebanon, choice as its cedars" (Song of Solomon 5:15). This comparison underscores the cedar's association with desirability and excellence. Conclusion Throughout the Bible, the cedar stands as a powerful symbol of beauty, strength, and divine glory. Its presence in the sacred texts serves as a reminder of God's majesty and the enduring nature of His promises to His people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Numbers 24:6As the valleys are they spread forth, as gardens by the river's side, as the trees of lign aloes which the LORD has planted, and as cedar trees beside the waters. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library At the Feast of Tabernacles - First Discourse in the Temple The Destruction of Jerusalem. The Destruction of Jerusalem The Apocalypse of Baruch. The Dew and the Plants The Joy of Unbroken Communion The Service to a Female Martyr. The Christian Described Pride of Prosperity Fruits of Recognized Union Resources What does the Bible say about smudging? | GotQuestions.orgHow tall was Adam? | GotQuestions.org What is the lily of the valley (Song of Solomon 2:1)? | GotQuestions.org Cedar: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Cedar used in Rebuilding the Temple Cedar used in Solomon's Palace Cedar: David's Ample Provision of, in Jerusalem, for the Temple Cedar: Furnished by Hiram, King of Tyre, for Solomon's Temple Cedar: Valuable for Building Purposes The Cedar used In Building Palaces The Cedar used In Building Temples The Cedar used In Making Chariots The Cedar used In Making Idols The Cedar used In Making Masts of Ships The Cedar used In Making Wardrobes The Cedar used In Preparing the Water of Separation The Cedar used In Purifying the Leper The Cedar: Banks of Rivers Favourable to the Growth of The Cedar: Beauty and Glory of Israel The Cedar: Considered the First of Trees The Cedar: Destruction of, a Punishment The Cedar: Destruction of, Exhibits God's Power The Cedar: Extensive Commerce In The Cedar: Graceful and Beautiful The Cedar: Imported Largely by Solomon The Cedar: Lebanon Celebrated For The Cedar: Made to Glorify God The Cedar: Majesty, Strength, and Glory of Christ The Cedar: Saints in Their Rapid Growth The Cedar: The Eagle Alluded to as Instrumental in Propagating The Cedar: The Eagle Alluded to as Making Its Nest In The Cedar: The Eagle Alluded to as Perching on the High Branches of Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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