### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼêshel**, represented by `{{H815}}`, refers to a **tamarisk tree** or, by extension, a **grove** of any kind. It is defined as a grove or tree. This specific term is rare, appearing only **3 times** in **3 unique verses** in the Bible, making each of its occurrences particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical uses, `{{H815}}` marks places of great importance. Abraham planted a **grove** `{{H815}}` in Beersheba as a place of worship where he called upon the name of the LORD [[Genesis 21:33]]. Later, the men of Jabesh buried the bones of Saul and his sons under a **tree** `{{H815}}` at Jabesh, a site of mourning and respect [[1 Samuel 31:13]]. The term is also associated with royal authority, as King Saul abode under a **tree** `{{H815}}` in Gibeah while holding his spear and surrounded by his servants [[1 Samuel 22:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context in which `{{H815}}` is found:
* `{{H5193}}` **nâṭaʻ** (to plant): This root word describes Abraham's intentional act of establishing the **grove** as a landmark for worship [[Genesis 21:33]].
* `{{H6912}}` **qâbar** (to bury): This word is used for the burial of Saul's bones under the **tree** `{{H815}}`, connecting it to acts of interment and finality [[1 Samuel 31:13]].
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to sit down, dwell, remain): This term describes how Saul **abode** under the **tree**, signifying it as a place of dwelling, or for holding court [[1 Samuel 22:6]].
* `{{H7586}}` **Shâʼûwl** (Saul): Israel's first king is central to two of the three uses of **ʼêshel**, first holding court under one [[1 Samuel 22:6]] and later being buried under another [[1 Samuel 31:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological and symbolic weight of `{{H815}}` is demonstrated in its specific contexts:
* **A Landmark of Worship:** Abraham's act of planting a **grove** `{{H815}}` and calling on the name of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`, the **everlasting** `{{H5769}}` **God** `{{H410}}`, establishes the **ʼêshel** as a site designated for communing with the divine [[Genesis 21:33]].
* **A Symbol of Royal Authority:** The image of King Saul holding his spear under a **tree** `{{H815}}` in Ramah, with his servants standing about him, portrays the **ʼêshel** as a seat of power and counsel [[1 Samuel 22:6]].
* **A Monument of Mourning:** The burial of Saul's bones under the **tree** `{{H815}}` at Jabesh marks it as a place of solemn remembrance and honor for the dead, consecrated by a period of fasting [[1 Samuel 31:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H815}}` is more than just a tree or grove; it functions as a significant landmark in the biblical narrative. Though appearing only three times, it consistently marks a location of profound human and spiritual activity. From a place of worship established by a patriarch to a seat of royal power and a final, honored resting place, **ʼêshel** designates sites where pivotal acts of faith, authority, and remembrance occur.
TRV