### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tᵉʼashshûwr**, represented by `{{H8391}}`, identifies a species of cedar, specifically the **box (tree)**, a name derived from its erectness. This term is quite rare in scripture, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, both found in the book of Isaiah.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H8391}}` appears in prophetic promises of restoration and divine glory. In one instance, God declares His intention to miraculously transform the barren wilderness by planting an array of magnificent trees, including the **box tree**, alongside the fir and pine [[Isaiah 41:19]]. This serves as a powerful symbol of God's life-giving power. The word is also used to describe how "the glory of Lebanon," including the **box** tree, will be brought to beautify the sanctuary, signifying that the finest elements of creation will be consecrated to honor God's holy place [[Isaiah 60:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The word `{{H8391}}` is consistently grouped with other significant trees, which provide a richer context for its meaning:
* `{{H1265}}` **bᵉrôwsh**: This word for **fir (tree)** appears alongside `{{H8391}}` in both of its occurrences ([[Isaiah 41:19]], [[Isaiah 60:13]]). It is often associated with the forests of Lebanon and used for building materials and instruments [[2 Samuel 6:5]].
* `{{H8410}}` **tidhâr**: This term for **pine (tree)** is also mentioned in tandem with the box tree in both [[Isaiah 41:19]] and [[Isaiah 60:13]]. The word implies an enduring, hard-wood tree.
* `{{H730}}` **ʼerez**: The renowned **cedar (tree)**, a symbol of strength and majesty, is listed with the box tree in God's promise to make the wilderness bloom [[Isaiah 41:19]].
* `{{H6086}}` **ʻêts**: The general Hebrew word for **tree** or wood. It is used in the list of trees to be planted in the wilderness, showing the comprehensive nature of God's restorative work [[Isaiah 41:19]].
* `{{H1918}}` **hădaç**: The **myrtle (tree)**, another plant in the miraculous forest of [[Isaiah 41:19]], is often a symbol of blessing and divine favor that replaces judgment [[Isaiah 55:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8391}}` is tied to its role in prophetic imagery.
* **Divine Restoration**: The planting of the **box tree** in a desert landscape is a metaphor for God's power to bring forth abundant life and beauty from desolation, signifying a complete spiritual and physical renewal [[Isaiah 41:19]].
* **Glory in Worship**: By including the **box** tree as part of the "glory of Lebanon" brought to "beautify the place of my sanctuary," scripture shows that the very best of the natural world is intended to bring glory to God and adorn His dwelling place [[Isaiah 60:13]].
* **Collective Splendor**: The **box tree** is never mentioned alone, but always as part of a group of esteemed trees. This emphasizes the collective and diverse beauty of creation working together to fulfill God's glorious purposes.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8391}}` **tᵉʼashshûwr** is a specific term that, while rare, carries significant symbolic meaning. The **box tree** represents the splendor and endurance of nature, which God uses in prophetic imagery to illustrate His power to restore the barren and to demonstrate that all of creation's glory ultimately serves to beautify His sanctuary and reveal His majesty.
TRV