Topical Encyclopedia The sycamore tree, known scientifically as Ficus sycomorus, is a significant tree mentioned in the Bible, particularly in the context of the ancient Near East. It is a type of fig tree, distinct from the sycamore trees found in North America and Europe. The sycamore is notable for its large size, broad leaves, and edible fruit, which resembles a fig. This tree thrives in the warm climates of the Middle East and Africa, often found in the lowlands and along riverbanks.Biblical References: 1. 1 Kings 10:27 : "The king made silver as common in Jerusalem as stones, and cedar as abundant as sycamore in the foothills." This verse highlights the abundance and commonality of sycamore trees during the reign of King Solomon, indicating their importance in the economy and daily life of Israel. 2. 2 Chronicles 1:15 : "The king made silver and gold as common in Jerusalem as stones, and cedar as abundant as sycamore in the foothills." This parallel passage to 1 Kings 10:27 reiterates the prosperity and wealth during Solomon's reign, with sycamore trees symbolizing abundance. 3. Psalm 78:47 : "He destroyed their vines with hail and their sycamore-figs with sleet." This verse refers to the plagues that God sent upon Egypt, illustrating the sycamore's presence in Egypt and its agricultural significance. 4. Amos 7:14 : "I was neither a prophet nor the son of a prophet, but I was a shepherd, and I also took care of sycamore-fig trees." The prophet Amos describes his humble origins, mentioning his work with sycamore trees, which were a source of livelihood for many in ancient Israel. 5. Luke 19:4 : "So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus, who was about to pass that way." This New Testament reference describes Zacchaeus, a tax collector, climbing a sycamore tree to get a better view of Jesus. The tree's sturdy branches and low height made it ideal for climbing. Cultural and Symbolic Significance: In biblical times, the sycamore tree was valued not only for its fruit but also for its wood, which was used in construction and furniture making. The tree's resilience and ability to grow in various soil types made it a symbol of strength and endurance. Its mention in the context of wealth and abundance during Solomon's reign underscores its economic importance. The sycamore's role in the account of Zacchaeus highlights its accessibility and the way it facilitated a personal encounter with Jesus. This narrative element underscores themes of humility and the desire to seek Christ, regardless of social status or obstacles. Conclusion: The sycamore tree, with its rich biblical history and symbolism, serves as a testament to the agricultural and economic life of ancient Israel and its surrounding regions. Its presence in both the Old and New Testaments reflects its enduring significance in the biblical narrative. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Kings 10:27And the king made silver to be in Jerusalem as stones, and cedars made he to be as the sycomore trees that are in the vale, for abundance. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 78:47 Amos 7:14 Luke 19:4 Strong's Hebrew 8256. shiqmah -- sycamore tree... Word Origin of uncertain derivation Definition sycamore tree NASB Word Usage sycamore (1), sycamore trees (4), sycamores (2). sycamore fruit, tree. ... /hebrew/8256.htm - 6k Library How Solomon Grew Rich, and Fell Desperately in Love with Women and ... Pride of Prosperity Ripe for Gathering Amos and Obadiah. Pagan Cemeteries. The Preacher as a Man of the Word. In Galilee at the Time of Our Lord Effectual Calling In Jericho and at Bethany - Jericho - a Guest with Zacch??us - the ... Outward Bound Resources Does Matthew 7:21-23 mean that believers can lose salvation? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Valley of Baca in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Asherah / Ashtoreth? | 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) |