Topical Encyclopedia Cedar-trees, particularly the Cedars of Lebanon, hold significant importance in biblical literature and history. These majestic trees are frequently mentioned throughout the Bible, symbolizing strength, beauty, and longevity. The cedar tree, known for its durable wood and pleasant aroma, was highly valued in ancient times for construction and religious purposes.Biblical References and Symbolism The Cedars of Lebanon are first mentioned in the Bible in the context of the construction of significant structures. King Solomon used cedar wood to build the Temple in Jerusalem, as described in 1 Kings 5:6 : "So give orders that cedars of Lebanon be cut for me. My servants will work with yours, and I will pay you for your servants according to whatever you say. For you know that there is no one among us who knows how to cut timber like the Sidonians." Cedar wood was chosen for its quality and durability, symbolizing the strength and permanence of God's dwelling place among His people. The use of cedar in the Temple construction is further detailed in 1 Kings 6:9-10 : "So he built the temple and finished it, and he covered the temple with beams and boards of cedar. He built chambers all along the temple, each five cubits high and attached to the temple with beams of cedar." The cedars also symbolize majesty and power, often used metaphorically to describe the might of nations or individuals. In Psalm 92:12 , the righteous are compared to these trees: "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, and grow like a cedar in Lebanon." This imagery conveys the idea of spiritual strength and resilience. Cultural and Historical Context The Cedars of Lebanon were renowned in the ancient Near East for their superior quality. The trees grew in the mountains of Lebanon, and their wood was exported to various regions, including Egypt and Mesopotamia. The Phoenicians, who inhabited the coastal regions of modern-day Lebanon, were skilled in timber trade and shipbuilding, utilizing cedar wood for its resistance to decay and insects. The significance of cedar trees extends beyond their physical attributes. They are often associated with divine favor and blessing. In Isaiah 2:13 , the cedars are mentioned in the context of God's judgment against human pride: "against all the cedars of Lebanon, lofty and lifted up, and against all the oaks of Bashan." Cedar in Prophetic and Poetic Literature The prophets frequently used cedar imagery to convey messages of judgment and restoration. In Ezekiel 31:3 , Assyria is likened to a cedar: "Consider Assyria, once a cedar in Lebanon, with beautiful branches that shaded the forest, and of towering height, its top among the clouds." This passage highlights the grandeur and eventual downfall of proud nations. In the Song of Solomon, cedar is used to describe beauty and desirability. Song of Solomon 5:15 states: "His legs are pillars of marble set on bases of pure gold. His appearance is like Lebanon, as majestic as the cedars." Here, the cedar symbolizes the beloved's strength and attractiveness. Conclusion Cedar-trees, particularly those from Lebanon, are deeply embedded in the biblical narrative, representing strength, beauty, and divine craftsmanship. Their frequent mention in Scripture underscores their importance in the cultural and religious life of ancient Israel and surrounding nations. Library Great Preparations for a Great Work The History of Solomon Every Inch a King. How Solomon Grew Rich, and Fell Desperately in Love with Women and ... The Cedars of Lebanon. That David Made Great Preparations for the House of God; and That ... Deliverance from Assyria Pride of Prosperity A Greater than Solomon Refutation of the Jews Thesaurus Cedar-trees (11 Occurrences)Cedar-trees. Cedar-tree, Cedar-trees. Cedarwood . Multi-Version Concordance Cedar-trees (11 Occurrences). Numbers 24 ... /c/cedar-trees.htm - 9k Logs (12 Occurrences) Sidonians (16 Occurrences) Timber (32 Occurrences) Woodworkers (6 Occurrences) Fir-trees (11 Occurrences) Tyrians (3 Occurrences) Masons (8 Occurrences) Carpenters (11 Occurrences) Sido'nians (11 Occurrences) Resources What are the cedars of Lebanon the Bible mentions? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the lily of the valley (Song of Solomon 2:1)? | GotQuestions.org What is the behemoth? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Cedar-trees (11 Occurrences)Numbers 24:6 2 Samuel 5:11 1 Kings 5:10 1 Chronicles 14:1 1 Chronicles 22:4 2 Chronicles 2:3 2 Chronicles 2:8 Ezra 3:7 Psalms 29:5 Song of Songs 1:17 Jeremiah 22:7 Subtopics Related Terms |
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