אֵלוֹן (e.lon)
e.lon
(Diviners') Oak
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 9 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The noun Elon refers to a large tree, specifically identified as an oak or terebinth in English translations. In the Hebrew Bible, this word appears nine times, primarily within the narratives of Genesis, Judges, and 1 Samuel. These references often serve as geographical markers, anchoring stories to specific locations where significant events unfold.
A notable instance occurs when Abram builds an altar near the great trees of Moreh in Shechem (Genesis 12:6), establishing a physical connection between the patriarch and the land. The term also appears in the compound name Elon-beth-han, associated with the tribe of Zebulun (Numbers 34:11). Its presence in these texts highlights the importance of landmarks in ancient Israelite storytelling.
While the word itself denotes a type of vegetation, its usage frequently carries theological weight by marking places of divine encounter or covenant. The terebinth’s deep roots and longevity may have symbolized stability and endurance for those dwelling nearby. Translators generally render it as "oak" or "terebinth," depending on the specific context and botanical identification preferred in each version.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word elon refers to a sturdy tree, often translated as an oak or terebinth. In the Hebrew Bible, these trees are not merely background scenery; they serve as landmarks for significant moments of faith. When Abram built an altar near the oaks of Mamre, he was marking that ground with his worship. These places became memorials where God’s presence felt tangible and real.
For you today, this word reminds us that God meets us in ordinary settings. We do not need to seek out special religious buildings or distant mountains to encounter Him. He can appear in the quiet of a tent, by a familiar tree, or in the midst of daily life. Your current location, however mundane it may seem, can become a place of divine encounter if you are open to seeing Him there.
These ancient trees stood for centuries, witnessing generations of believers. Their deep roots symbolize stability and endurance. As you navigate your own seasons, remember that faith is not always about dramatic upheaval. Sometimes it is about planting yourself firmly in God’s promises and trusting that He is present right where you are.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 9 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- at/ [the] great trees of3×
- [the] great tree of3×
- [the] great tree2×
- [the] great trees of1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אֵל֥וֹן3×
- אֵל֣וֹן2×
- בְּ/אֵלֹנֵ֥י1×
- בְּ/אֵלֹנֵ֖י1×
- בְּ/אֵֽלֹנֵ֜י1×
- אֵלוֹנֵ֥י1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 12:6
Abram passed through the land to the place of Shechem, to the oak of Moreh. At that time, Canaanites were in the land.
This verse marks the first time Abram builds an altar near the oaks, establishing a physical pattern of worship tied to specific locations in the land.
-
Genesis 18:1
Yahweh appeared to him by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat in the tent door in the heat of the day.
The appearance of Yahweh by the oaks of Mamre highlights this spot as a place of intimate divine visitation and covenant promise.
-
Judges 9:6
All the men of Shechem assembled themselves together with all the house of Millo, and went and made Abimelech king by the oak of the pillar that was in Shechem.
Here the oak serves as a solemn witness to a political act, showing how these landmarks were central to public life and decision-making in ancient Israel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Hebrew word Elon mean?
Why are trees important in these biblical stories?
How is Elon different from other tree words in the Bible?
Where does Elon appear most often?
Every Occurrence (9 verses across 4 books)
Genesis 4 verses
Abram passed through the land to the place of Shechem, to the oak of Moreh. At that time, Canaanites were in the land.
Genesis 13:18Abram moved his tent, and came and lived by the oaks of Mamre, which are in Hebron, and built an altar there to Yahweh.
Genesis 14:13One who had escaped came and told Abram, the Hebrew. At that time, he lived by the oaks of Mamre, the Amorite, brother…
Genesis 18:1Yahweh appeared to him by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat in the tent door in the heat of the day.