(plural or (feminine) תִּמֹּרָה; (singular and plural), from the same root as תָּמָר; (architectural) a palm-like pilaster (i.e. umbellate); palm tree.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **timmôr**, represented by `{{H8561}}`, is an architectural term for a **palm tree** or a **palm-like pilaster**. It appears 19 times across 16 unique verses in the Bible. Its usage is primarily related to the ornate carvings and decorations found within the temple.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical accounts, `{{H8561}}` is consistently used to describe decorative carvings within sacred structures. In the temple built by Solomon, the walls and doors were carved with figures of cherubims, **palm trees**, and open flowers ([[1 Kings 6:29]], [[1 Kings 6:32]]). This motif is also prominent in Ezekiel's vision of the temple, where **palm trees** are carved upon the posts of the gates [[Ezekiel 40:16]] and on the walls, placed systematically between cherubim [[Ezekiel 41:18]]. The carvings adorned both inner and outer parts of the sanctuary, often overlaid with gold [[1 Kings 6:35]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the architectural use of **timmôr**:
* `{{H3742}}` **kᵉrûwb** (cherub): This term for a cherub or imaginary figure is consistently found alongside `timmôr`. The temple walls were intricately made with a **palm tree** between a **cherub** and a **cherub** [[Ezekiel 41:18]].
* `{{H352}}` **ʼayil** (post, pilaster): This word for a strong support or post is where the **palm tree** carvings were often placed, such as on the gateposts of Ezekiel's temple [[Ezekiel 40:26]].
* `{{H6731}}` **tsîyts** (flower): The carvings in Solomon's temple included **palm trees** and cherubim along with "open **flowers**" to complete the decorative theme [[1 Kings 6:29]].
### Theological Significance
The symbolic weight of `{{H8561}}` is derived entirely from its use in the temple.
* **Sacred Ornamentation:** The primary role of `{{H8561}}` is to adorn the house of God. It was set on the walls of the "greater house" and overlaid with fine gold, signifying its value and sacred purpose [[2 Chronicles 3:5]].
* **Symbolic Pairing:** The **palm tree** is almost always depicted with the **cherub** (`{{H3742}}`). The pattern of a palm tree between two cherubim suggests a connection to the divine and holy environment of God's dwelling [[Ezekiel 41:18]].
* **Architectural Order:** The placement of **palm trees** is described with precision, such as "one on this side, and another on that side, upon the posts thereof" [[Ezekiel 40:26]], reflecting the divine order and symmetry inherent in the design of the temple.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8561}}` is not used to describe a living plant but is an important architectural element in the Bible's description of the temple. As a decorative carving, the **palm tree** symbolizes sacred beauty and order. Its consistent placement alongside cherubim on the walls, doors, and posts of God's house elevates it to a symbol of the holy and divinely ordained environment.
TRV