### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shiqmâh**, represented by `{{H8256}}`, refers to the **sycamore** tree and its fruit. It appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible. While a common tree, it is often used symbolically to represent abundance, that which is of lesser value compared to cedar, and a staple resource of the Israelite lowlands.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H8256}}` is frequently used to illustrate immense prosperity. During Solomon's reign, he made valuable cedar trees as abundant "as the **sycomore trees** that are in the vale" ([[1 Kings 10:27]]; [[2 Chronicles 1:15]]; [[2 Chronicles 9:27]]). The tree also serves as a symbol of loss and defiant pride; when the people of Israel faced judgment, they declared, "the **sycomores** are cut down, but we will change them into cedars" [[Isaiah 9:10]]. The prophet Amos identified his humble origins not as a prophet, but as a "gatherer of **sycomore fruit**" [[Amos 7:14]]. The trees were also seen as vulnerable to divine judgment, as they were destroyed by frost [[Psalms 78:47]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and significance of the sycamore:
* `{{H730}}` **ʼerez** (a cedar tree): This is often contrasted with the sycamore to show a difference in value. The Israelites vowed to replace the common, destroyed sycamores with the more stately and valuable cedars [[Isaiah 9:10]].
* `{{H8219}}` **shᵉphêlâh** (Lowland, i.e. (with the article) the maritime slope of Palestine): This word specifies the geographical region where sycamores were particularly abundant, referred to as the "vale" or "low plains" ([[1 Kings 10:27]]; [[1 Chronicles 27:28]]).
* `{{H1103}}` **bâlaç** (to pinch sycamore figs (a process necessary to ripen them); gatherer): This verb describes the specific work associated with sycamore fruit, highlighting the humble occupation of the prophet Amos, who called himself a "gatherer" of these fruits [[Amos 7:14]].
* `{{H1438}}` **gâdaʻ** (to fell a tree; generally, to destroy anything): This verb is used for the action of felling sycamores, indicating their destructibility and use as a symbol of judgment or loss [[Isaiah 9:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8256}}` is found in its consistent symbolic usage.
* **A Benchmark for Abundance:** The sycamore serves as a measure of God's blessing and a king's prosperity. Solomon's wisdom and wealth were so great that valuable cedars became as common as the sycamore trees in the low plains [[1 Kings 10:27]].
* **Symbol of Humility vs. Pride:** The prophet Amos's work as a "gatherer of sycomore fruit" establishes his humble, non-elite status before God called him [[Amos 7:14]]. In contrast, the defiant cry to replace fallen sycamores with cedars shows a people's pride in the face of judgment [[Isaiah 9:10]].
* **An Object of Divine Judgment:** As part of God's judgment on his people, their sycamore trees were destroyed by frost [[Psalms 78:47]], demonstrating that even common, staple resources are subject to divine authority.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8256}}` is far more than a botanical term. It functions as a powerful symbol in the biblical narrative. It represents what is common and plentiful, providing a tangible measure for both extraordinary blessing and national judgment. Through its contrast with the mighty cedar and its association with the lowlands, the sycamore tree illustrates profound themes of humility, pride, abundance, and the comprehensive scope of God's authority over the land and its people.
TRV