Topical Bible: Palm Tree: Jericho Was Called "The City of Palm Trees"

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The palm tree holds significant symbolism and practical importance throughout the biblical narrative, particularly in relation to the ancient city of Jericho. Known as "The City of Palm Trees," Jericho is frequently associated with these iconic trees, which are emblematic of prosperity, beauty, and victory.

Biblical References and Symbolism

The palm tree is mentioned numerous times in the Bible, often symbolizing righteousness and flourishing. Psalm 92:12 states, "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, and grow like a cedar in Lebanon" . This imagery conveys the idea of spiritual vitality and resilience, as palm trees are known for their ability to thrive in arid environments.

Jericho: The City of Palm Trees

Jericho's designation as "The City of Palm Trees" is explicitly mentioned in several biblical passages. In Deuteronomy 34:3, the text describes the land Moses viewed from Mount Nebo, including "the Negev and the region from the Valley of Jericho, the City of Palms, as far as Zoar" . This description highlights the lushness and fertility of the area surrounding Jericho, which was in stark contrast to the surrounding desert landscape.

The palm trees of Jericho were not only a symbol of the city's prosperity but also a practical resource. They provided food, shade, and materials for building and crafting. The date palms, in particular, were a staple in the diet of the inhabitants and a valuable trade commodity.

Historical and Cultural Context

Jericho's location near the Jordan River and its abundant palm trees made it a strategic and desirable settlement. The city's fortifications and resources are famously noted in the account of the Israelites' conquest under Joshua. In Joshua 6, the miraculous fall of Jericho's walls marked the beginning of the Israelites' possession of the Promised Land.

The palm trees of Jericho continued to be a defining feature of the region throughout biblical history. In Judges 1:16, the Kenites, relatives of Moses' father-in-law, are described as settling in the "City of Palms" after leaving the City of Palms with the people of Judah.

Spiritual Lessons and Reflections

The palm tree's association with Jericho serves as a reminder of God's provision and faithfulness. Just as the palm tree flourishes in challenging conditions, believers are encouraged to remain steadfast and rooted in their faith, trusting in God's sustenance and strength.

Moreover, the story of Jericho underscores the theme of divine intervention and the fulfillment of God's promises. The city's palm trees, standing tall and resilient, mirror the enduring nature of God's covenant with His people.

In conclusion, the palm tree, particularly in the context of Jericho, is a powerful biblical symbol of life, victory, and divine blessing. Its presence in the scriptures invites reflection on the spiritual truths of growth, resilience, and the unwavering faithfulness of God.

Nave's Topical Index

Deuteronomy 34:3
And the south, and the plain of the valley of Jericho, the city of palm trees, to Zoar.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Jericho Itself.
... of the men of Jericho was about palm-trees; which they ... tree, such fruits, as fell
from the tree," although they ... of our land: for it grows at Jericho; and, for ...
/.../lightfoot/from the talmud and hebraica/chapter 47 jericho itself.htm

Anointed for Burial.
... was now past, and in the scenes at Jericho, the feast at ... with their garments and
the gigantic leaves of the palm tree. ... A few palm trees are still to be seen in ...
/.../johnson/the new testament commentary vol iii john/anointed for burial.htm

Jesus Restoreth Sight to Bartimaeus
... attained in former days; and hardly a tree remains of ... trees, and the palms which
earned for Jericho the title of "The City of the Palm Trees," and which ...
/.../the life of jesus christ for the young/jesus restoreth sight to bartimaeus.htm

Zacchaeus
... With its palm trees and rich gardens watered by living ... his steps, when the news sounded
through Jericho that Jesus ... to where a wide-branching fig tree hung over ...
//christianbookshelf.org/white/the desire of ages/chapter 61 zacchaeus.htm

A Description Op Galilee, Samaria, and Judea.
... olive tree, the vine, and the palm tree are chiefly ... account some have, with sagacity
enough, called that city ... and Engaddi, and Herodium, and Jericho; and after ...
/.../chapter 3 a description op.htm

When Hyrcanus who was Alexander's Heir, Receded from his Claim to ...
... death of Mithridates, of which he was informed about Jericho. ... Judea, which bears
a vast number of palm trees [7] besides the balsam tree, whose sprouts ...
/.../chapter 6 when hyrcanus who.htm

How Herod and Sosius Took Jerusalem by Force; and what Death ...
... He also took away a great deal of their country; nay, even the plantation of palm
trees at Jericho, where also grows the balsam tree, and bestowed them ...
/.../chapter 18 how herod and.htm

Another Royal Procession
... money; but those who could not buy palm branches, climbed the ... it." There is hope
of this celestial tree; if it ... ram's horn till they and their Jericho come down ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 18 1872/another royal procession.htm

The Golden Eagle is Cut to Pieces. Herod's Barbarity when He was ...
... [7] Of the famous palm trees and balsam about Jericho and Engaddl ... hand, and with
his right hand presenting a branch of the frankincense tree, with this ...
/.../chapter 33 the golden eagle.htm

The Flight into Egypt and St. John the Baptist in the Desert
... of the path the plant called the rose of Jericho appeared with ... of it they saw a tall,
slender date palm with its ... were following them, and hid in the tree so as ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/xvi the flight into egypt.htm