Tree(tree of life, tree of knowledge)
Summary
Trees feature prominently in Scripture both literally and symbolically, from the trees of Eden to the tree of life in Revelation.
☩Significant Trees
The Garden of Eden contained the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Trees commonly mentioned in Scripture include the cedar, oak, olive, fig, palm, and vine. Specific trees mark important events: Abraham's oak at Mamre, Deborah's palm, Absalom's oak. The righteous are compared to trees planted by rivers of water.
☩Symbolic Usage
Trees symbolize human life, nations, and kingdoms. Nebuchadnezzar's dream of a great tree represented his kingdom. Jesus used trees in parables: the barren fig tree, the mustard seed growing into a tree. Paul used the olive tree to represent Israel and Gentile believers grafted in. The tree of life reappears in Revelation, bearing twelve fruits for the healing of the nations.