Prayer Tents Bible References - Prayer Tents

TEREBINTH

Heb. ʾēlâ, ʾallâ, often translated “terebinth,” are also inconsistently translated “oak”; it is unclear whether these words refer to large trees in general or if nuances in meaning have been lost. Of the several species of terebinth that inhabit Israel, Pistacia. Atlantica Desf. is large and long-lived like the oak. It is deciduous, and grows in relatively dry climates. Other species common to the area include P. lintiscus and P. terebinthus palaestina. The pistachio nut (Heb. boṭnâ; Gen. 43:11), smaller than those sold in the West, has been found in excavations at Beer-sheba and Arad.

The prophets berate the populace for sacrificing to other gods under large trees such as the terebinth (e.g., Hos. 4:13). The association of large trees, both the oak and the terebinth, with ritual activity and the appearance of divine beings may occur because of the impressive stature and longevity of these trees. Jacob buries Laban’s household idols under a terebinth (Gen. 35:4). The bones of Saul and his sons were also buried under a terebinth (1 Chr. 10:12).

Megan Bishop Moore/Randall W. Younker

Prayer Tents Bible References - Prayer Tents

TEREBINTH

Eerdmans Dictionary of the Bible (2000)