### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tâmâr**, represented by `{{H8558}}`, means **palm tree**. Derived from a root meaning to be erect, this word appears **12 times** in **12 unique verses**. It is used to describe not only the physical tree but also locations of significance and carries rich symbolic weight related to prosperity, righteousness, and celebration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical accounts, `{{H8558}}` often serves as a geographical marker. The Israelites found "threescore and ten **palm trees**" at the oasis of Elim, a place of rest and provision ([[Exodus 15:27]], [[Numbers 33:9]]). Jericho is repeatedly identified as "the city of **palm trees**" ([[Deuteronomy 34:3]], [[Judges 3:13]]). The branches of the **palm** were commanded for use during the Feast of Tabernacles, a time of rejoicing before the LORD ([[Leviticus 23:40]], [[Nehemiah 8:15]]). Figuratively, the word is used to symbolize flourishing and stature, as in the declaration, "The righteous shall flourish like the **palm tree**" [[Psalms 92:12]], and in the poetic comparison of a lover's stature to a **palm tree** [[Song of Solomon 7:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the botanical and symbolic context of the palm tree:
* `{{H6086}}` **ʻêts** (tree): This is the general term for a tree, derived from a root meaning firmness. It is used alongside **tâmâr** when listing multiple types of trees that are withered, signifying a broad devastation [[Joel 1:12]].
* `{{H6524}}` **pârach** (to flourish): A primitive root meaning to break forth as a bud or bloom. This verb is directly paired with the palm tree to create the powerful image of the righteous person who will **flourish** like a palm tree [[Psalms 92:12]].
* `{{H3709}}` **kaph** (branch, palm): This word, which can mean hollow hand or palm, is also used for the leaves of a palm-tree. It is used to specify the "branches of **palm** trees" gathered for the festival booths [[Leviticus 23:40]].
* `{{H7416}}` **rimmôwn** (pomegranate): A significant fruit tree often mentioned with the palm. The withering of both the **pomegranate** and the palm tree is a sign of joy withering away from the people [[Joel 1:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological and symbolic weight of `{{H8558}}` is significant and multifaceted:
* **Righteous Flourishing:** The palm tree is the definitive symbol of a righteous person's prosperity and stability. It is described as flourishing and growing tall like a cedar, an image of strength and uprightness [[Psalms 92:12]].
* **Divine Provision:** The seventy palm trees at Elim serve as a powerful sign of God's provision and sanctuary for His people in the wilderness, marking a place of water and rest [[Exodus 15:27]].
* **Joyful Worship:** The inclusion of palm branches in the celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles connects the tree to national joy and worship, a physical element used to rejoice before God [[Leviticus 23:40]].
* **Beauty and Stature:** In the Song of Solomon, the palm tree is a metaphor for graceful, erect stature and beauty, something to be desired and admired [[Song of Solomon 7:7]].
* **Indicator of Judgment:** The languishing of the palm tree is used by the prophet Joel as a direct indicator of the loss of joy among the people, linking the health of the land to the spiritual state of the nation [[Joel 1:12]].
### Summary
In summary, **tâmâr** `{{H8558}}` is a word that grows from its literal meaning as a **palm tree** to embody concepts central to the biblical narrative. It marks literal places of sustenance like Elim and Jericho, while also serving as a profound symbol for the flourishing of the righteous, the joy of worship, and the very state of the nation. From the desert oasis to the psalmist's praise, the palm tree stands as a figure of life, provision, and uprightness.
TRV