Learn more about Terebinth

Introduction to Terebinth

The term “Terebinth” refers to a type of large tree known in the ancient Near East, particularly in the land of Israel. It is often mentioned in the Bible as a prominent landmark or location for important events. The terebinth tree, closely related to the pistachio family, is known for its long life, resilience, and expansive shade. In the biblical context, it often carries spiritual or symbolic significance, serving as a setting for divine encounters, altars, and significant events.

Terebinth Pronunciation

“Terebinth” is pronounced as TER-uh-binth, with emphasis on the first syllable.

Terebinth in the Bible

The terebinth appears in various significant biblical passages. It was not only a notable tree but also associated with certain sacred or historically meaningful places:

• Genesis 12:6: Abram passed through the land to the site of the great tree of Moreh at Shechem. This terebinth marks the location where God appeared to Abram, making it a significant spot for the covenantal promises.
• Genesis 35:4: Jacob buries the foreign gods under the terebinth tree near Shechem, symbolizing purification and recommitment to Yahweh.
• Judges 6:11: The Angel of the Lord appears to Gideon under the terebinth at Ophrah, calling him to deliver Israel from Midian. This tree thus becomes a site of divine calling and empowerment.
• 1 Samuel 10:3: Saul is told he will meet men by the terebinth of Tabor as part of his anointing process, marking the tree as a location of prophetic significance.
• Isaiah 6:13: The terebinth is used symbolically to describe the faithful remnant of Israel, akin to a stump left after the tree is felled—a symbol of hope and continuity.

These references illustrate the terebinth's dual role as a physical marker and a symbolic image of strength, permanence, and divine interaction.

Related Themes and Meanings to Terebinth

The terebinth tree often represents:

• Divine Encounters: As seen with Abram and Gideon, the terebinth frequently serves as a location where individuals experience God's presence or receive divine messages.
• Sanctity and Worship: It was often near these trees that altars were erected or covenants reaffirmed.
• Symbol of Strength and Endurance: Due to its longevity and robust nature, the terebinth is sometimes a metaphor for God's enduring covenant with Israel or the strength of the faithful remnant.
• Purification and Commitment: Jacob’s act of burying idols under a terebinth reflects spiritual cleansing and dedication to Yahweh alone.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Terebinth

• The terebinth tree is known scientifically as Pistacia terebinthus. It produces a kind of resin and has a pungent smell, which may have contributed to its use in ancient rituals or significance in sacred spaces.
• While “terebinth” is used in some English Bible translations, other versions simply translate the Hebrew word elah as “oak,” leading to some variation in understanding. The trees are similar but distinct in botanical terms.
• In ancient Canaanite religion, sacred trees like the terebinth were often associated with divine appearances and were possibly remnants of older religious practices that Israelite worship repurposed or opposed (e.g., condemnation of “Asherah poles” set up near trees).
• The terebinth of Mamre is traditionally associated with the location where Abraham entertained three heavenly visitors in Genesis 18, though the text itself mentions “the oaks of Mamre.”

Conclusion

The terebinth is more than just a tree in biblical literature; it serves as a silent witness to divine moments, human decisions, and historical developments. Its recurring presence throughout Scripture as a marker of spiritual encounters underscores the importance of nature in ancient Near Eastern thought and in biblical theology. For readers today, the terebinth invites reflection on the places in life where one might encounter the divine in the ordinary yet profound spaces.