feminine of a derivative (only in the plural שִׁטִּים; meaning the sticks of wood) from the same as שֹׁטֵט; the acacia (from its scourging thorns); shittah, shittim. See also בֵּית הַשִּׁטָּה.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shiṭṭâh**, represented by `{{H7848}}`, refers to the acacia tree. It appears 28 times in 28 unique verses, almost always in its plural form, **shittim**. The base definition describes it as the "sticks of wood" derived from the acacia, a tree known for its thorns. It is almost exclusively mentioned as the primary building material for the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical context, **shittim** wood `{{H7848}}` is the material specified by God for the construction of the most holy objects in Israel's worship. The Ark of the Covenant was to be made from **shittim** wood [[Exodus 25:10]], a command carried out by Bezaleel [[Exodus 37:1]] and later recounted by Moses [[Deuteronomy 10:3]]. The same wood was used to build the table for the bread of the presence [[Exodus 25:23]], the altar of burnt offering [[Exodus 27:1]], and the incense altar [[Exodus 30:1]]. Beyond the furniture, it formed the very structure of the sanctuary, including the boards [[Exodus 26:15]], bars [[Exodus 26:26]], and pillars [[Exodus 26:37]]. In a prophetic context, God promises to plant the **shittah tree** in the wilderness as a sign of miraculous restoration [[Isaiah 41:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and significance of **shittim** wood:
* `{{H6086}}` **ʻêts** (a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)): This general term for **wood** is almost always used with `{{H7848}}` to form the phrase "shittim **wood**," specifying the exact type of timber to be used for the Tabernacle's construction [[Exodus 25:10]].
* `{{H730}}` **ʼerez** (a cedar tree (from the tenacity of its roots)): The **cedar** is another significant tree mentioned in scripture. It is listed alongside the **shittah tree** in God's promise to restore the wilderness, demonstrating that both are part of His plan for divine renewal [[Isaiah 41:19]].
* `{{H1918}}` **hădaç** (of uncertain derivation; the myrtle): The **myrtle** is also promised to be planted in the desert with the **shittah tree**. This grouping of trees emphasizes a theme of God bringing beauty and life to barren places [[Isaiah 41:19]].
* `{{H5414}}` **nâthan** (a primitive root; to give): This verb describes God's action of planting, or to **give**, the **shittah tree** in the wilderness [[Isaiah 41:19]]. It also describes the action to **hang** the Tabernacle's veil upon pillars made of **shittim** wood [[Exodus 26:32]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7848}}` is tied directly to its function in Israel's worship and its symbolic use in prophecy.
* **Material for Divine Dwelling:** The selection of **shittim** wood as the core material for the Tabernacle, from the Ark to the structural boards, marks it as consecrated for a holy purpose. It is the earthly substance used to build the physical representation of God's presence among His people ([[Exodus 25:10]], [[Exodus 26:15]]).
* **An Offering of the People:** The Israelites brought **shittim** wood as a contribution for the "work of the service" [[Exodus 35:24]]. This act connects the personal, tangible offerings of the people directly to the construction of their most sacred space.
* **Symbol of Restoration:** The promise that God will plant the **shittah tree** in the wilderness serves as a powerful metaphor for His ability to bring radical transformation. It symbolizes the shift from desolation to abundance and life, enacted by divine power [[Isaiah 41:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7848}}` is far more than just a type of wood. It is the foundational element specified for the construction of the Tabernacle, making it central to the practice of Old Testament worship. Its use links the tangible world to the sacred and connects the offerings of the people to the dwelling place of God. As a prophetic symbol, it represents God's power to bring life and beauty out of barrenness.
TRV