עֵץ

עֵץ

a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)

Definition

The Hebrew word עֵץ (ʻêts) primarily means 'tree,' referring to a living, growing plant with a trunk, as seen in the creation narrative (Genesis 1:11-12). It also commonly denotes 'wood' as a material, such as timber for building (1 Kings 6:15) or fuel. In a specialized sense, it can refer to a 'stick' or 'pole,' as in the staff of Moses (Exodus 7:10) or even a gallows (Esther 5:14). The word's semantic range extends from the literal botanical object to the products derived from it.

Biblical Usage

עֵץ is used 287 times across the Old Testament, appearing frequently in narrative, legal, and prophetic books. It describes trees in creation and the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2-3), materials for the tabernacle and temple construction (Exodus 25-27, 1 Kings 6), and objects like staffs or weapons (2 Samuel 18:9-10). Prophetic literature often uses it metaphorically, such as representing a ruler or nation (Ezekiel 31). The plural form often means 'sticks of wood.'

Etymology

Derived from the root עָצָה (ʻāṣâ, H6095), meaning 'to shut' or 'to be firm,' the word עֵץ conveys the core idea of firmness or solidity, aptly describing a tree's sturdy nature. This root connection highlights the tree as a firm, established plant. Cognates in other Semitic languages, like Ugaritic and Akkadian, also carry meanings related to trees and wood.

Semantic Range

עֵץ is theologically significant, most notably in the 'tree of the knowledge of good and evil' and the 'tree of life' in Eden (Genesis 2-3), central to the biblical themes of obedience, sin, and death. It is also used for the wood of the altar and tabernacle, connecting creation to worship. The concept reappears in Proverbs as a 'tree of life' (Proverbs 3:18) and prophetically in Ezekiel 47:12 and Revelation 22:2, symbolizing healing and eternal life through God's provision. In ancient Israelite culture, trees were vital for food, shelter, fuel, and tools, making עֵץ a word of everyday importance. Certain trees, like the oak or terebinth, were also associated with sacred sites or divine encounters (e.g., Genesis 12:6-7). The use of wood in religious artifacts, such as the ark of the covenant, imbued the material with ceremonial significance, differing from a purely utilitarian modern view. אִילָן (ʼîylān, H363) — Aramaic-derived term for tree, used in later books like Daniel and Ezra. עֵץ פְּרִי (ʻêts perîy) — A specific phrase meaning 'fruit tree' (Genesis 1:11).

Word Details