A survey of trees in the Bible

Abstract

The history and human cultural aspects of trees are of great interest to arboricultural practitioners and others involved in tree management. However, many and especially earlier cultural histories are often little known or overlooked. This short paper coincides with the publication of a book, “God's trees – trees, forests and wood in the Bible”, and takes a personal view of the subject based on the research for the book. The account does not seek to be definitive, and it is acknowledged that interpretation of ancient sources is subjective and experts differ in their interpretations. Reviewing the trees and uses of wood in the Bible, a collection of 66 books completed nearly 2000 years ago, brings special challenges. Three pairs of examples are explored – known and unknown identity of trees, evidence from the ancient timber trade and wood samples, and tradition itself to show what conclusions can be drawn. In this way, light is shed on some biblical subjects and passages including some that were obscure. The article draws on the author's recent book, God's trees – trees, forests and wood in the Bible, published by Day One.