### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **hădaç**, represented by `{{H1918}}`, refers to the **myrtle** tree. Although its derivation is uncertain, it appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. It is frequently mentioned in prophetic contexts involving restoration and as a feature in scenes of divine revelation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1918}}` is used to symbolize blessing and divine intervention. Isaiah prophesies that the **myrtle tree** will grow in place of the brier as an everlasting sign of the LORD's work [[Isaiah 55:13]]. God also declares He will plant the **myrtle** in the wilderness, alongside trees like the cedar and fir, to transform the desolate land [[Isaiah 41:19]]. In Zechariah's visions, a man on a red horse and later the angel of the LORD are seen standing among the **myrtle trees** ([[Zechariah 1:8]], [[Zechariah 1:11]]). Additionally, the people of Israel are instructed to gather **myrtle** branches to build booths for a festival [[Nehemiah 8:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide botanical context for the myrtle's significance:
* `{{H1265}}` **bᵉrôwsh** (fir (tree)): This tree is often paired with the myrtle in prophecies of renewal. It is prophesied to replace the thorn, just as the myrtle replaces the brier, and is set in the desert by God ([[Isaiah 55:13]], [[Isaiah 41:19]]).
* `{{H730}}` **ʼerez** (cedar (tree)): A tree noted for its height and strength, the cedar is listed with the myrtle as one of the trees God will plant in the wilderness to demonstrate His glory [[Isaiah 41:19]].
* `{{H8558}}` **tâmâr** (palm tree): The palm is associated with celebration and righteousness. Its branches were gathered along with myrtle branches for the making of booths, connecting both trees to worship and remembrance [[Nehemiah 8:15]].
* `{{H2132}}` **zayith** (olive (tree, -yard), Olivet): Another important tree whose branches were gathered with myrtle branches for the festival of booths, highlighting its role in the religious life of Israel [[Nehemiah 8:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1918}}` is connected to its symbolic use in Scripture.
* **Divine Restoration:** The myrtle is a key symbol of God's power to reverse the curse and bring life to barren places. Its appearance signifies a restored creation and an "everlasting sign" of God's faithfulness ([[Isaiah 55:13]], [[Isaiah 41:19]]).
* **Sacred Celebration:** The specific instruction to use myrtle branches for making booths indicates its role in worship and joyful obedience to God's commands [[Nehemiah 8:15]].
* **Place of Revelation:** The myrtle grove in Zechariah's vision serves as the backdrop for a divine encounter, a space where messages from the LORD are delivered to the prophet [[Zechariah 1:10-11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1918}}` is far more than a simple botanical reference. It is a powerful scriptural symbol representing God's promises of renewal, His presence with His people, and the joy of worship. From the desolate wilderness to the sacred grove of a vision, the myrtle tree consistently points to God's restorative work in the world.
TRV