תִּרְזָה

תִּרְזָה

a species of tree (apparently from its slenderness), perhaps the cypress

Definition

The Hebrew word תִּרְזָה (tirzâh) refers to a specific type of tree mentioned only once in the Old Testament. Based on the context in Isaiah 44:14, it is understood to be a tree used for woodworking, likely valued for its timber. The brief biblical description suggests it is a slender tree, leading many scholars and translations to identify it as a species of cypress or possibly a fir. This identification aligns with its use alongside the cedar in Isaiah's passage, where both trees are planted and cultivated by a craftsman for the purpose of making an idol.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only in Isaiah 44:14. In this context, it is part of a satirical description of idolatry, where a man plants and tends a tree—specifically a תִּרְזָה and a cedar—so he can later cut it down and use part of the wood to warm himself and cook food, and another part to fashion into a god that he worships. Its usage is entirely within this prophetic critique of human-made religion.

Etymology

The noun תִּרְזָה (tirzâh) is likely derived from the root רָזָה (rāzâ, H7329), which means 'to be lean, slender.' This etymological connection directly informs its primary gloss as a slender tree. The name suggests the tree was recognized and named for its physical characteristic of being thin or slim, which is consistent with the profile of certain coniferous trees like the cypress.

Semantic Range

While the word itself simply names a tree, its single biblical occurrence in Isaiah 44:14 is theologically significant. It is a key detail in Isaiah's powerful polemic against idolatry, highlighting the absurdity of worshiping an object made from a common tree that a person planted, watered, and cut down themselves. Understanding that this is a specific, cultivated tree enriches the reader's grasp of the prophet's argument: the worshiper is utterly dependent on and in control of the very material he then bows down to, a stark contrast to the sovereign, self-existent God of Israel. In the ancient Near East, specific types of wood were highly valued for construction, craftsmanship, and religious iconography. Trees like the cedar and cypress were prized for their durability, aroma, and straight grain. The תִּרְזָה, likely a cypress or fir, would have been a known and useful timber source. Its inclusion in Isaiah's prophecy reflects the common cultural practice of using fine wood for carving images, making the prophet's critique immediately recognizable to his original audience. אֶרֶז (erez, H730) — cedar; a taller, more majestic coniferous tree often symbolizing strength and prestige. בְּרוֹשׁ (berôsh, H1265) — fir or cypress; another conifer often grouped with the cedar for quality timber, sometimes used interchangeably in translations for תִּרְזָה.

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