Topical Encyclopedia The box tree, known scientifically as Buxus sempervirens, is a small evergreen tree or shrub that holds significance in biblical literature and ancient Near Eastern culture. It is mentioned in the Bible in the context of its use in construction and ornamentation, valued for its hard, dense wood and its ability to be shaped and polished.Biblical References The box tree is specifically mentioned in the book of Isaiah. In Isaiah 41:19 , God speaks of planting various trees in the wilderness as a sign of His provision and blessing: "I will plant in the wilderness the cedar, the acacia, the myrtle, and the olive; I will set the juniper in the desert, the cypress, and the box tree together." This passage highlights the box tree as part of a divine promise to transform desolate places into areas of beauty and abundance. Isaiah 60:13 also references the box tree in a prophetic vision of restoration and glory: "The glory of Lebanon will come to you—its cypress, elm, and box trees together—to adorn the place of My sanctuary, and I will glorify the place of My feet." Here, the box tree is associated with the splendor and majesty of God's sanctuary, symbolizing the beauty and richness of the restored creation. Cultural and Historical Context In ancient times, the box tree was highly prized for its wood, which was used in fine woodworking and carving. Its dense grain made it ideal for intricate work, including the crafting of musical instruments, decorative items, and religious artifacts. The durability and workability of boxwood made it a valuable resource in the ancient world. The regions where box trees were commonly found include parts of the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and areas surrounding the Black Sea. The tree's presence in these regions made it accessible for use in the construction of temples and other significant structures, contributing to its mention in biblical texts. Symbolism and Theological Significance In the biblical context, the box tree symbolizes strength, resilience, and the transformative power of God. Its inclusion in prophetic visions of restoration underscores the theme of renewal and divine blessing. The box tree, alongside other trees mentioned in Isaiah, represents the flourishing of God's creation and the fulfillment of His promises to His people. Theologically, the box tree can be seen as a metaphor for the believer's life, which, when rooted in God's provision and care, can thrive even in the most challenging environments. The transformation of the wilderness into a place of beauty through the planting of trees like the box tree serves as a powerful image of hope and redemption in the biblical narrative. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 41:19I will plant in the wilderness the cedar, the shittah tree, and the myrtle, and the oil tree; I will set in the desert the fir tree, and the pine, and the box tree together: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library On Mr. Rudyard Kipling and Making the World Small The Death of the Blessed virgin Mary at Ephesus Nothing but Leaves The Child Samuel. Opening Thoughts. Wesley visits Holland The Census and the Journey of the Holy Family Mission Tours. Lessons from Nature Rhoda Resources Did God literally and visibly walk in the garden (Genesis 3:8)? | GotQuestions.orgShould we have a Christmas tree? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that you will know them by their fruit in Matthew 7:16? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Trees of the Life and Conversation of the Righteous Trees were Cut Down by Besieging Armies for Erecting Forts Trees were Cut Down for Building Trees were Cut Down for Making Idols Trees were Sold With the Land on Which They Grew Trees: (Casting Their Leaves Yet Retaining Their Substance) of Trees: (Dry) of the Wicked Ripe for Judgment Trees: (Dry) of Useless Persons Trees: (Duration of) of Continued Prosperity of Saints Trees: (Good and Fruitful) of Saints Trees: (Green) of the Innocence of Christ Trees: (Producing Evil Fruit) the Wicked Trees: (Shaking of the Leaves off) the Terror of the Wicked Trees: Afford an Agreeable Shade in Eastern Countries During The Trees: Designed to Beautify the Earth Trees: Different Kinds of Mentioned of the Forest Trees: Different Kinds of Mentioned of the Wood Trees: Different Kinds of Mentioned: Bearing Fruit Trees: Different Kinds of Mentioned: Deciduous or Casting the Leaves Trees: Different Kinds of Mentioned: Evergreen Trees: Each Kind Has Its own Seed for Propagating Its Species Trees: Each Kind of, Known by Its Fruit Trees: Early Custom of Planting, in Consecrated Grounds Trees: Given As Food to the Animal Creation Trees: God Increases and Multiplies the Fruit of, for his People Trees: God often Renders, Barren As a Punishment Trees: Made for the Glory of God Trees: Nourished by the Rain from Heaven Trees: Nourished: Through Their own Sap Trees: Often Propagated by Birds Who Carry the Seeds Along With Them Trees: Often Suffered From: Desolating Armies Trees: Often Suffered From: Fire Trees: Often Suffered From: Hail and Frost Trees: Often Suffered From: Locusts Trees: Originally Created by God Trees: Parts of Mentioned: The Branches Trees: Parts of Mentioned: The Fruit or Seeds Trees: Parts of Mentioned: The Leaves Trees: Parts of Mentioned: The Roots Trees: Parts of Mentioned: The Stem or Trunk Trees: Parts of Mentioned: The Tender Shoots Trees: Solomon Wrote the History of Trees: Specially Flourished Beside the Rivers and Streams of Water Trees: The Jews: Considered Trees on Which Criminals Were Executed Trees: The Jews: Often Buried Under Trees: The Jews: Often Executed Criminals On Trees: The Jews: Often Pitched Their Tents Under Trees: The Jews: Prohibited from Cutting Down Fruit Bearing, for Sieges Trees: The Jews: Prohibited from Planting in Consecrated Places Trees: when Cut Down often Sprouted from Their Roots Again Related Terms Sycamore-trees (6 Occurrences) Sycomore-trees (6 Occurrences) Mulberry-trees (4 Occurrences) |
    |