### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻarmôwn**, represented by `{{H6196}}`, refers to the **chesnut tree**. The term's definition suggests it may be the plane tree, so named for its smooth and shed bark. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H6196}}` is presented in two distinct ways. First, it is identified as a source of wood used by Jacob, who took **rods** `{{H4731}}` from the **chesnut tree** along with poplar and hazel to influence his flock [[Genesis 30:37]]. In a contrasting use, Ezekiel employs the **chesnut tree** as a standard of natural beauty and majesty. In a prophecy describing the greatness of Assyria, the **chesnut trees** in the **garden** `{{H1588}}` of **God** `{{H430}}` are mentioned as being inferior to its splendor [[Ezekiel 31:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the context for **ʻarmôwn**:
* `{{H3839}}` **libneh** (poplar): This term for a "whitish tree" appears alongside the **chesnut tree** in the account of Jacob preparing rods for his flock [[Genesis 30:37]].
* `{{H3869}}` **lûwz** (hazel): Described as "some kind of nuttree," it is the third type of wood Jacob used, completing the trio with poplar and chesnut [[Genesis 30:37]].
* `{{H730}}` **ʼerez** (cedar): A **cedar tree** known for its tenacity. In Ezekiel, **cedars** are listed with **chesnut trees** as magnificent trees in God's garden that could not compare to Assyria's glory [[Ezekiel 31:8]].
* `{{H1265}}` **bᵉrôwsh** (fir tree): Mentioned as a prominent tree whose **boughs** `{{H5589}}` were not like those of the allegorical tree representing Assyria, placing it in the same high category as the **chesnut tree** [[Ezekiel 31:8]].
* `{{H6288}}` **pᵉʼôrâh** (branches): This word, denoting foliage or limbs, describes the part of the **chesnut tree** used as a benchmark for beauty in Ezekiel's vision [[Ezekiel 31:8]].
### Theological Significance
Though mentioned infrequently, the use of `{{H6196}}` carries specific thematic weight.
* **A Natural Resource:** The account in Genesis highlights the **chesnut tree** as a tangible part of the natural world, providing materials for human use. Jacob's action of pilling the rods demonstrates a practical interaction with this specific **tree** `{{H6086}}` [[Genesis 30:37]].
* **A Standard of Divine Beauty:** In Ezekiel, the **chesnut tree** is placed within the **garden** `{{H1588}}` of **God** `{{H430}}`, establishing it as a symbol of created perfection. Its **branches** `{{H6288}}` are presented as a measure of splendor [[Ezekiel 31:8]].
* **Symbolic Grandeur:** Its inclusion with other noble trees like **cedars** `{{H730}}` and **fir trees** `{{H1265}}` serves to create an image of ultimate earthly magnificence, which is then used to emphasize the even greater, albeit temporary, glory of the Assyrian empire [[Ezekiel 31:8]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʻarmôwn** `{{H6196}}` is a specific botanical term that, in its two appearances, serves dual roles. It is both a literal tree used for a practical purpose in the patriarchal narrative and a lofty symbol of natural grandeur in prophetic imagery. These contexts establish the **chesnut tree** as a representation of the beauty and utility found within God's creation.
TRV