Topical Encyclopedia The Cyprus tree, often referred to in biblical texts, is a significant species within the context of the ancient Near East and the biblical narrative. Known for its durability and aromatic wood, the Cyprus tree is frequently associated with construction and craftsmanship in the Scriptures.Biblical References and Symbolism The Cyprus tree is mentioned in several passages throughout the Bible, often highlighting its use in building and its symbolic representation of strength and beauty. In Isaiah 41:19 , the Lord promises to plant Cyprus trees in the desert as a sign of His provision and transformation: "I will plant in the wilderness the cedar, the acacia, the myrtle, and the olive; I will set the Cyprus in the desert, the plane tree, and the pine together." This verse underscores the Cyprus tree's role in God's promise to renew and restore the land, symbolizing hope and divine intervention. In 1 Kings 5:8-10 , King Solomon's request for timber from King Hiram of Tyre includes Cyprus wood, which was used in the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem: "So Hiram sent word to Solomon, saying: 'I have received your message; I will do all you desire regarding the cedar and Cyprus timber.' My servants will bring the logs down from Lebanon to the sea, and I will make them into rafts to go by sea to the place you indicate to me. There I will break them apart, and you can take them away. And you shall fulfill my desire by providing food for my household." The use of Cyprus wood in the Temple signifies its importance and value in sacred architecture. Cultural and Historical Context The Cyprus tree, likely referring to the Mediterranean Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens), was abundant in the regions surrounding Israel, particularly in Lebanon. Its wood was highly prized for its resistance to decay and its pleasant fragrance, making it an ideal material for construction and artistic endeavors. The durability of Cyprus wood made it a preferred choice for shipbuilding, as well as for crafting idols and religious artifacts, as noted in Isaiah 44:14 : "He cuts down cedars or retrieves a Cyprus or oak. He lets it grow strong among the trees of the forest. He plants a laurel, and the rain makes it grow." Theological Implications The Cyprus tree, through its various mentions in Scripture, serves as a metaphor for God's provision and the beauty of His creation. Its presence in the wilderness, as described in Isaiah, symbolizes the transformative power of God to bring life and abundance to barren places. Furthermore, its use in the construction of the Temple highlights the importance of using the finest materials in the worship and service of God, reflecting the reverence and honor due to Him. In summary, the Cyprus tree holds a place of prominence in biblical literature, representing strength, beauty, and divine provision. Its wood, valued for its quality and fragrance, was integral to the construction of sacred spaces and objects, underscoring its significance in the cultural and religious life of ancient Israel. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 44:14He hews him down cedars, and takes the cypress and the oak, which he strengthens for himself among the trees of the forest: he plants an ash, and the rain does nourish it. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Letter Li. From Epiphanius, Bishop of Salamis, in Cyprus, to John ... Rhoda Of the Three Woe Trumpets. Raymond Lull. Israel in Canaan. Book 8 Footnotes The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt The Life of S. Hilarion. Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) Babylonia and Assyria 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) |
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