Topical Encyclopedia The mulberry tree, though not frequently mentioned in the Bible, holds a place of interest due to its symbolic and practical significance in biblical times. The Hebrew word often translated as "mulberry" is "bekhaim," which some scholars suggest may refer to the balsam tree. However, traditional interpretations have long associated this term with the mulberry tree.Biblical References The most notable mention of mulberry trees is found in the context of King David's military strategies. In 2 Samuel 5:23-24 , we read: "So David inquired of the LORD, and He answered, 'Do not march straight up, but circle around behind them and attack them in front of the balsam trees. As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move quickly, because this will mean the LORD has gone out in front of you to strike the Philistine army.'" Here, the mulberry trees are associated with divine guidance and victory, as the rustling in their leaves signaled God's intervention on behalf of Israel. Similarly, 1 Chronicles 14:14-15 recounts this event: "So David again inquired of God, and God answered him, 'Do not march up after them; circle around them and attack them in front of the balsam trees. As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move out to battle, because God has gone out before you to strike the camp of the Philistines.'" This passage reinforces the idea that the mulberry trees served as a sign of God's presence and action. Cultural and Symbolic Significance In biblical symbolism, trees often represent life, growth, and stability. The mulberry tree, with its deep roots and broad leaves, can be seen as a symbol of resilience and divine provision. Its mention in the context of David's battles underscores the importance of seeking God's guidance and waiting for His timing in the face of challenges. Practical Uses In ancient times, mulberry trees were valued for their fruit and leaves. The fruit of the mulberry tree is sweet and nutritious, while the leaves were used to feed silkworms, making them an important resource for producing silk. This practical aspect of the mulberry tree highlights the provision and sustenance that God offers to His people. Conclusion While the mulberry tree is not a central figure in biblical narratives, its presence in the scriptures serves as a reminder of God's guidance and provision. Through the rustling of its leaves, the mulberry tree became a symbol of divine intervention and victory for King David and the Israelites. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Samuel 5:23,24And when David inquired of the LORD, he said, You shall not go up; but fetch a compass behind them, and come on them over against the mulberry trees. Torrey's Topical Textbook Strong's Hebrew 1057. baka -- balsam tree... Definition: trees. Word Origin from the same as Baka Definition balsam tree NASB Word Usage balsam trees (4). mulberry tree. The same ... /hebrew/1057.htm - 6k Library The Sound in the Mulberry Trees The Great Confession - the Great Commission - the Great ... Continues the Same Subject: Explains the Prayer of Union by a ... The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt The Rock of Castello. The Image of Self. The Adventures of Saint Denis of France. Six Cities Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 3: 1857 Psalm LXXVIII. 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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