Bible Trees

The Apple Tree

The word “apple” appears 8 times in the King James Version and 7 times in other English translations. “Apple” is used as the translation of 4 different Hebrew words:

One such use is that of Beth-tappuah meaning “place of apples” (a town in Judah). Tappuah was the name of 3 other ancient biblical places.

There has long been discussion of what this fruit refers to. Most accept the apple, others suggest the apricot or quince or orange. There is currently no clear evidence that apples grew in Israel (due probably to the heat). But they were certainly not unknown in Israel, and the land does have cooler hill country. They definitely grew north of Israel in Lebanon. The ancient Romans cultivated apple trees extensively. It is possible that climatic conditions may have been more favourable in ancient times in Israel. Today, more than 40 types of fruit a commercially grown in Israel. Apples are grown successfully in the northern hills of Israel and in Gaza.

The apple tree is listed among the most valuable trees of Israel (Joel 1:12) and is frequently referred to in the Song of Solomon, and noted for its beauty.

Like an apple tree among the trees of the forest,

So is my beloved among the young men.

In his shade I took great delight and sat down,

And his fruit was sweet to my taste. —Song of Solomon 2:3 NASB

Sustain me with raisin cakes,

Refresh me with apples,

Because I am lovesick. —Song of Solomon 2:5 NASB

Beneath the apple tree I awakened you;

There your mother was in labor with you,

There she was in labor and gave you birth. —Song of Solomon 8:5b NASB

Like apples of gold in settings of silver

Is a word spoken in right circumstances. —Proverbs 25:11 NASB

In Psalm 17:8 David uses the “apple of His [God's] eye” in his prayer: Just as light is reflected on the shiny skin of an apple, and images are reflected in the eyes of a human beholder, God always and constantly let my image be before You and use your power to protect me.

Loving heavenly Father, how happy I am to know that You are my Almighty God and You are ever watchful to save me from all the dangers and enemies in this world! I surrender myself and my family under Your special care.  I submit my sitting, standing, walking and travelling under Your precious saving grace.  Cover me and all of us under Your protecting wings.  Be a wall of fire around me. May Your beautiful name be glorified through me.  In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.