Sycomores, often referred to in the Bible, are a type of fig tree known scientifically as Ficus sycomorus. These trees are distinct from the common fig tree (Ficus carica) and are native to the warmer climates of the Middle East and Africa. The sycomore tree is notable for its heart-shaped leaves and small, edible fruit, which resembles a fig. The wood of the sycomore tree was also valued in ancient times for its durability and was often used in construction and carpentry.

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 passage highlights the abundance of sycomore trees in the region, indicating their commonality and importance in the landscape of ancient 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 verse parallels the account in 1 Kings, emphasizing the prosperity and wealth during King Solomon's reign, with sycomores being a symbol of abundance.

3. Psalm 78:47 : "He destroyed their vines with hail and their sycamore-figs with sleet." This verse refers to one of the plagues that struck Egypt, illustrating the sycomore's presence in the region 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 beginnings, mentioning his work with sycomore trees, which underscores the tree's role in the daily life and economy of the people.

5. Luke 19:4 : "So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus, since He was about to pass that way." This New Testament reference to Zacchaeus climbing a sycomore tree to see Jesus highlights the tree's sturdy and accessible nature, making it suitable for climbing.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In biblical times, sycomore trees were an integral part of the agrarian society. The fruit of the sycomore, though not as highly prized as other figs, was a staple for the poorer classes, providing a reliable source of food. The trees were also significant for their wood, which was used in various construction projects, including coffins and furniture, due to its resistance to decay.

The sycomore tree's presence in both the Old and New Testaments signifies its widespread distribution and importance across different periods and regions. Its mention in various contexts—from symbols of abundance and prosperity to elements of everyday life—reflects its multifaceted role in the biblical narrative.

Symbolism:

Sycomores in the Bible often symbolize strength, resilience, and provision. Their ability to thrive in diverse environments and their utility in providing food and materials make them a fitting metaphor for God's provision and care for His people. The sycomore's role in the account of Zacchaeus also illustrates themes of seeking and encountering Christ, as the tree provided a vantage point for Zacchaeus to see Jesus, leading to his transformation.

Overall, sycomores are a testament to the richness of biblical symbolism and the interconnectedness of nature and faith in the biblical world.

In Galilee at the Time of Our Lord
... of Zaccheus (Luke 19:4) by the mark which the Rabbis give to distinguish between
Upper and Lower Galilee"the former beginning "where sycomores cease to grow ...
/.../edersheim/sketches of jewish social life/chapter 3 in galilee at.htm

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty
... they reached a place beyond the influence of the tide, and then dropped anchor in
front of a village scattered along a bank fringed with sycomores and palms.*. ...
/.../chapter iiithe eighteenth theban dynasty.htm

The Child-Life in Nazareth
... p. 33.) It was divided into Upper and Lower Galilee - the former beginning where
sycomores (not our sycamores) cease to grow.' Fishing in the Lake of Galilee ...
/.../the life and times of jesus the messiah/chapter ix the child-life in.htm

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty --(Continued)
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 5. <. ...
/.../chapter ithe eighteenth theban dynastycontinued.htm

Sycomores (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Sycomores (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 9:10 The bricks
are fallen down, but we will build with hewn stones: the ...
/s/sycomores.htm - 6k

Sycomore (3 Occurrences)
... It is highly improbable that sycomores could ever have flourished near Tekoa (compare
Amos 7:14), but it is quite possible that the town or individual ...
/s/sycomore.htm - 10k

Sycamores (7 Occurrences)
... Isaiah 9:10 The bricks are fallen, but we will build with hewn stone; the
sycomores are cut down, but we will put cedars in their place. ...
/s/sycamores.htm - 8k

Sycomore-trees (6 Occurrences)
Sycomore-trees. Sycomores, Sycomore-trees. Syene . Multi-Version Concordance ...
Sycomores, Sycomore-trees. Syene . Reference Bible.
/s/sycomore-trees.htm - 8k

Hewn (32 Occurrences)
... (YLT). Isaiah 9:10 The bricks are fallen down, but we will build with hewn stones:
the sycomores are cut down, but we will change them into cedars. ...
/h/hewn.htm - 16k

Tree (245 Occurrences)
... It is highly improbable that sycomores could ever have flourished near Tekoa (compare
Amos 7:14), but it is quite possible that the town or individual ...
/t/tree.htm - 75k

Change (109 Occurrences)
... (See JPS). Isaiah 9:10 The bricks are fallen down, but we will build with hewn stones:
the sycomores are cut down, but we will change them into cedars. ...
/c/change.htm - 42k

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