The firtree, a term used in various translations of the Bible, refers to a type of evergreen tree known for its tall, straight trunk and needle-like leaves. In the context of the ancient Near East, the firtree is often associated with strength, endurance, and longevity, characteristics that are frequently used symbolically in Scripture.

Biblical References:

1. Isaiah 41:19 : "I will plant in the wilderness the cedar, the acacia, the myrtle, and the olive; I will set the cypress in the desert, the fir and the pine together." In this passage, the firtree is mentioned as part of a divine promise to transform desolate places into lush, thriving landscapes. The inclusion of the firtree alongside other significant trees underscores its importance and the transformative power of God's provision.

2. Hosea 14:8 : "O Ephraim, what have I to do anymore with idols? I answer him and care for him. I am like a green cypress tree; your fruitfulness comes from Me." While the BSB uses "cypress," other translations use "fir," highlighting the tree's symbolic representation of God's enduring presence and the source of Israel's fruitfulness.

3. 2 Samuel 6:5 : "David and all the house of Israel were celebrating before the LORD with all kinds of wood instruments, harps, stringed instruments, tambourines, sistrums, and cymbals." Although the specific mention of firtree wood is not in this verse, the use of various woods for instruments in biblical times often included durable and resonant woods like fir, suggesting its value in worship and celebration.

Symbolism and Usage:

In biblical symbolism, the firtree often represents resilience and eternal life, given its evergreen nature. Its ability to thrive in harsh conditions makes it a fitting metaphor for the steadfastness of faith and the enduring nature of God's promises. The firtree's wood was also valued for construction and craftsmanship, indicating its practical importance in ancient societies.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient Near East, trees like the fir were not only valued for their material uses but also held spiritual significance. The evergreen nature of the firtree made it a symbol of life and vitality, often used in religious and cultural rituals. Its presence in biblical texts reflects both its physical utility and its deeper spiritual meanings.

Theological Implications:

The references to firtrees in Scripture often highlight themes of renewal, hope, and divine blessing. By transforming barren landscapes with firtrees, God demonstrates His power to bring life and abundance where there was once desolation. This serves as a reminder of God's ability to renew and sustain His people, providing for their needs and ensuring their spiritual growth.

In summary, the firtree in the Bible is a multifaceted symbol, representing strength, endurance, and the life-giving power of God. Its presence in Scripture underscores the themes of divine provision and the enduring nature of God's promises to His people.FIR; FIR-TREE

fur, (the Revised Version, margin "cypress"; berosh, 2 Samuel 6:5 1 Kings 5:8, 10, etc.; (berothem (plural only), an Aramaic form, Songs 1:17):

1. Old Testament References:

This tree was one of the chief trees of Lebanon (Isaiah 60:13); one of usefulness (Isaiah 41:19; Isaiah 55:13); associated with the cedar (2 Kings 19:23 Psalm 104:17 Isaiah 14:8 Zechariah 11:2); its boughs were wide and great (Ezekiel 31:8); it was evergreen (Hosea 14:8); it could supply boards and timber for doors (1 Kings 6:15, 24); beams for roofing the temple (2 Chronicles 3:5); planks for shipbuilding (Ezekiel 27:5). In 2 Samuel 6:5 we read: "David and all the house of Israel played before Yahweh with all manner of instruments made of fir-wood," etc. It is practically certain that the reading in the parallel passage in 1 Chronicles 13:8 is more correct: "David and all Israel played before God with all their might, even with songs," etc. This view is supported by the Septuagint translation (en pase dunamei). There is therefore no necessity to suppose that berosh was a wood used for musical instruments.

2. The Identity of "Berosh":

The identity of berosh is uncertain. It was a name applied either to several of the Coniferae in common or to one or more outstanding species. If the latter is the case we can only seek for the most suited to Old Testament requirements. The Aleppo pine, Pinus Halepensis, is a fine tree which flourishes in the Lebanon, but its wood is not of special excellence and durability. A better tree (or couple of trees) is the sherbin of the Syrians; this name includes two distinct varieties in the suborder Cypressineae, the fine tall juniper, Juniperis excelsa and the cypress, Cypressus sempervirens. They both still occur in considerable numbers in the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon; they are magnificent trees and produce excellent wood-resinous, fragrant, durable. If these trees were not classed locally, as now, under one name, then the cypress is of the two more probably the berosh. The coffins of Egyptian mummies were made of cypress; a compact variety of this cypress is cultivated all over the Turkish empire by the Moslems as an ornament in cemeteries. From early times the cypress has been connected with mourning.

In the Apocrypha there are two definite references to the cypress (kuparissos). In APC Sirach 24:13, Wisdom says:

"I was exalted like a cedar in Libanus,

And as a cypress tree on the mountains of Hermon."

And in Sirach 50:10 the high priest Simon is said to be

"As an olive tree budding forth fruits,

And as a cypress growing high among the clouds."

These passages, especially the former, certainly favor the idea that berosh was the cypress; the name may, however, have included allied trees.

E. W. G. Masterman

The Last Farewell in the Presence of the one Hundred and Fifty ...
... 4328] should not think that they have anything. Howl, firtree, for the cedar
is fallen! [4329] Let them be instructed by the misfortunes ...
/.../cyril/lectures of s cyril of jerusalem/oration xlii the last farewell.htm

Firtree

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Fir-tree (5 Occurrences)
Fir-tree. Firtree, Fir-tree. Fir-trees . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia FIR;
FIR-TREE. ... (ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT). Firtree, Fir-tree. Fir-trees . Reference ...
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First-time (1 Occurrence)
First-time. First-ripe, First-time. Firtree . Multi-Version Concordance
First-time (1 Occurrence). ... (WBS). First-ripe, First-time. Firtree . Reference
/f/first-time.htm - 6k

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