of uncertain derivation; a cypress (?) tree; hence, a lance or a musical instrument (as made of that wood); fir (tree).
Transliteration:bᵉrôwsh
Pronunciation:ber-osh'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term בְּרוֹשׁ (transliterated *bᵉrôwsh*, Strong's `{{H1265}}`) primarily denotes a type of coniferous tree, most commonly identified as the cypress or fir. The precise botanical species is uncertain, as indicated by its "uncertain derivation" in lexicographical resources. This ambiguity reflects the challenge of definitively mapping ancient Hebrew terms to modern botanical classifications. However, the consistent usage points to a tree valued for its timber, likely possessing characteristics of durability, straightness, and aromatic qualities, typical of trees like the Mediterranean cypress (*Cupressus sempervirens*) or various species of fir (*Abies*). The semantic range extends beyond the living tree to objects crafted from its wood. The definition notes its use for a "lance" (a spear or javelin) and a "musical instrument." This secondary meaning highlights the practical applications of *bᵉrôwsh* wood, prized for its strength in weaponry and its resonant properties for musical instruments. While direct biblical references to *bᵉrôwsh* as a lance or instrument are less explicit than its use as timber, the definition suggests these were known uses of the wood in the ancient Near East.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *bᵉrôwsh* appears numerous times in the Hebrew Bible, predominantly in contexts related to construction, particularly the Temple, and as a symbolic element in prophetic literature.
One of the most prominent uses is in the construction of Solomon's Temple. King Hiram of Tyre supplied Solomon with timber, including fir wood, for this sacred project: "So Solomon's builders and Hiram's builders and the Gebalites quarried them, and prepared the timber and the stones to build the house" [[1 Kings 5:18]] (referring to the general timber supply, with fir specifically mentioned later). More directly, "He paneled the walls of the house on the inside with boards of cedar; from the floor of the house to the rafters of the ceiling, he covered them on the inside with wood; and he covered the floor of the house with boards of fir" [[1 Kings 6:15]]. Fir wood was also used for the temple doors: "So also he made for the entrance of the nave doorposts of olive wood, four-sided; and the two doors were of fir wood" [[1 Kings 6:34]]. Similarly, in the account in Chronicles, Hiram sends "cedar timber and cypress timber" (often translated as fir) for the Temple and Solomon's palace [[2 Chronicles 2:8]], and "the greater house he paneled with fir wood" [[2 Chronicles 3:5]]. This consistent use in the Temple underscores the wood's quality and its suitability for sacred architecture.
Beyond the Temple, *bᵉrôwsh* is mentioned in the context of shipbuilding, specifically for the construction of ships from Tyre: "They made all your planks of fir trees from Senir" [[Ezekiel 27:5]]. This highlights its use for maritime purposes, suggesting its resilience and suitability for sturdy vessels.
In prophetic books, *bᵉrôwsh* often appears alongside other noble trees like the cedar (`{{H730}}`, ארז) and the pine/box tree (`{{H8645}}`, תדהר; `{{H8610}}`, תאשור), symbolizing strength, beauty, and divine blessing. For example, the trees of Lebanon rejoice at the fall of a tyrannical king: "Even the cypress trees rejoice over you, and the cedars of Lebanon, saying, 'Since you were laid low, no woodcutter comes up against us'" [[Isaiah 14:8]]. God promises to transform the wilderness: "I will put in the wilderness the cedar, the acacia, the myrtle, and the olive tree; I will set in the desert the cypress, the plane tree, and the pine tree together" [[Isaiah 41:19]]. This imagery signifies a miraculous transformation and flourishing. Similarly, in a vision of future glory for Jerusalem, it is stated: "The glory of Lebanon will come to you, the cypress, the plane tree, and the pine tree together, to beautify the place of My sanctuary; and I will make the place of My feet glorious" [[Isaiah 60:13]]. The fir/cypress also represents God's provision and the fruitfulness of His people: "I am like a green cypress tree; from Me comes your fruit" [[Hosea 14:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of *bᵉrôwsh* naturally leads to related terms and concepts that illuminate its significance within the biblical worldview. Foremost among these are other types of trees mentioned in conjunction with *bᵉrôwsh*, particularly the cedar (`{{H730}}`, ארז), the pine or plane tree (`{{H8645}}`, תדהר), and the box tree (`{{H8610}}`, תאשור). These trees often appear together in lists of valuable timber, especially those sourced from Lebanon, emphasizing their collective importance for construction and their symbolic value.
Concepts directly related to *bᵉrôwsh* include:
* **Timber and Construction:** The extensive use of *bᵉrôwsh* in the Temple and other significant structures connects it to the broader theme of skilled craftsmanship and the use of natural resources for human endeavors, particularly those dedicated to God.
* **Lebanon:** As a primary source of high-quality timber, Lebanon is frequently mentioned in conjunction with these trees, symbolizing abundance, strength, and natural grandeur.
* **Forestry and Arboriculture:** The presence of specific tree types points to an awareness of different wood properties and their suitability for various purposes in ancient Israel.
* **Divine Provision:** The consistent mention of these trees, often supplied by God or growing in places transformed by Him, underscores the theme of God's abundant provision for His people.
* **Symbolism of Growth and Flourishing:** In prophetic contexts, *bᵉrôwsh* contributes to the imagery of a restored land, a thriving people, and the beauty of God's creation, often contrasted with barrenness or desolation.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *bᵉrôwsh* is multifaceted, drawing from its practical use and symbolic representation in scripture.
1. **Divine Provision and Wisdom in Creation:** The very existence of such a valuable tree, suitable for diverse human needs, points to God's wise and benevolent provision for humanity. Its use in the Temple, the dwelling place of God, underscores that even the materials for sacred spaces are gifts from the Creator. God provides the resources necessary for worship and for the flourishing of His people.
2. **Sanctity and Holiness in Worship:** The prominent role of *bᵉrôwsh* in the construction of the First and Second Temples (as inferred from the continued use of such timber) imbues it with a sense of sanctity. The use of durable, beautiful, and sometimes aromatic wood like fir/cypress contributed to the glory and reverence of the sacred space. It signifies that the best of creation is to be offered in service to God, making His dwelling place magnificent.
3. **Symbol of Restoration and Flourishing:** In prophetic literature, particularly Isaiah, the planting of *bᵉrôwsh* in the wilderness or its presence in a transformed land (e.g., [[Isaiah 41:19]], [[Isaiah 55:13]], [[Isaiah 60:13]]) serves as a powerful symbol of divine restoration. It signifies God's power to bring life out of desolation, beauty out of barrenness, and prosperity to His people after exile or judgment. This imagery speaks to the hope of spiritual renewal and the abundance of God's grace.
4. **Resilience and Steadfastness:** As a sturdy, often evergreen tree, *bᵉrôwsh* can symbolize resilience and steadfastness. In [[Hosea 14:8]], where God declares, "I am like a green cypress tree; from Me comes your fruit," the image conveys God's unwavering faithfulness and the source of all life and fruitfulness for His people. It suggests that just as the tree provides shade and fruit, God provides sustenance and protection.
### Summary
The Hebrew term בְּרוֹשׁ (*bᵉrôwsh*, `{{H1265}}`) primarily denotes a coniferous tree, likely a cypress or fir, valued for its timber. Its semantic range extends to objects crafted from its wood, such as lances and musical instruments. Biblically, *bᵉrôwsh* is most notably used as a vital building material in the construction of Solomon's Temple, appearing alongside cedar and other noble woods, underscoring its quality and suitability for sacred architecture. It also features in descriptions of shipbuilding and, significantly, in prophetic texts where it symbolizes divine provision, restoration, and the flourishing of God's people. Theologically, *bᵉrôwsh* points to God's benevolent provision in creation, the sanctity of materials used in worship, and the enduring hope of spiritual renewal and abundant life that God offers. Its consistent presence in sacred and symbolic contexts highlights its significance as both a practical resource and a potent emblem of divine grace and faithfulness.
TRV