### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zayith**, represented by `{{H2132}}`, is the term for **olive**. It appears 38 times across 36 unique verses in the Bible. It refers to the olive tree, its branches, or the berry itself. This word is central to understanding agricultural life and symbolism, representing concepts of prosperity, divine blessing, and the source of oil for light and anointing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2132}}` is used in several key contexts. It is frequently listed as a foundational element of the promised land's agricultural wealth, alongside vineyards and fig trees [[Deuteronomy 8:8]]. Possessing oliveyards was a sign of prosperity and blessing bestowed by God, often on land the Israelites did not plant themselves [[Joshua 24:13]]. The fruit of the olive tree was used to produce pure beaten oil for the light in the sanctuary, a command given to the children of Israel to ensure the lamps would burn continually [[Exodus 27:20]]. The term is also famously used to name the Mount of Olives, a significant location east of Jerusalem [[Zechariah 14:4]], where David wept in his ascent [[2 Samuel 15:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and significance of the olive:
* `{{H8081}}` **shemen** (oil): The primary product of the olive, this word denotes the oil used for light, anointing, and sustenance. The Bible speaks of a "land of oil olive" [[Deuteronomy 8:8]], and a sign of judgment was to tread olives but not be able to anoint oneself with oil [[Micah 6:15]].
* `{{H6086}}` **`êts`** (tree): This general word for tree is frequently paired with `{{H2132}}` to form the phrase "olive tree," emphasizing the source of the fruit. A righteous person is described as a "green olive tree in the house of God" [[Psalms 52:8]].
* `{{H1612}}` **gephen** (vine): The olive and the vine are staple crops of the promised land and are often mentioned together as indicators of agricultural blessing or failure [[Haggai 2:19]]. A wife is compared to a fruitful vine, while children are likened to olive plants [[Psalms 128:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2132}}` is significant, representing core themes of God's relationship with his people.
* **Symbol of Divine Blessing:** The olive tree and its produce are depicted as a key part of God's provision and blessing. The righteous are likened to a "green olive tree in the house of God" [[Psalms 52:8]], and children are described as "olive plants" around the table, signifying a blessed family [[Psalms 128:3]].
* **Sign of Peace and Hope:** In the account of the flood, an olive leaf brought by a dove is the first sign that the waters had abated from the earth, serving as a symbol of peace and a new beginning [[Genesis 8:11]].
* **Metaphor for Israel:** The nation of Israel is called by the LORD "a green olive tree, fair, and of goodly fruit" [[Jeremiah 11:16]], though its branches are broken due to unfaithfulness. Its beauty is also compared to that of Lebanon [[Hosea 14:6]].
* **Illustration of Judgment and Remnant:** The failure of the olive harvest is a sign of judgment [[Habakkuk 3:17]]. The shaking of an olive tree, leaving only a few berries, serves as a metaphor for the small remnant of people who will be left after God's judgment has passed [[Isaiah 17:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2132}}` is much more than a botanical term. It functions as a powerful symbol throughout scripture, representing prosperity, fruitfulness, and divine blessing. From the olive leaf signifying peace after the flood to the flourishing tree representing the righteous individual, **zayith** connects the physical bounty of the land to the spiritual well-being of God's people. It serves as an indicator of both divine favor and judgment, making it a cornerstone of biblical agricultural and theological imagery.
TRV