תְּאַשּׁוּר (te.ash.shur)
te.ash.shur
boxtree
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The noun teashur refers to a specific type of tree, most commonly identified as the boxtree, though some scholars suggest it may denote cypress or cedar. This small evergreen appears in only two verses in the Hebrew Bible, both within the book of Isaiah. Its limited usage means the text relies on context rather than repeated themes to clarify its identity.
In Isaiah 41:19 and 60:13, the tree is listed among other valuable woods used for construction and decoration. These passages highlight the tree’s durability and aesthetic value, portraying it as a symbol of beauty and strength in God’s restored creation. The word itself does not carry metaphorical weight beyond its physical presence, serving instead to illustrate the richness of the land.
Because the exact botanical identification remains uncertain, translations vary between "boxtree," "cypress," and "pine." This uncertainty reflects the challenges of translating ancient Near Eastern flora into modern languages. Regardless of the specific species, the word underscores the tangible beauty God promises in His redemptive plans.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word teashur points to a sturdy evergreen, likely the boxtree or cypress, mentioned only twice in Scripture. In Isaiah 41:19, God promises to plant these trees alongside cedars and myrtles in the wilderness. This image transforms a barren landscape into a place of beauty and life, showing that God brings growth where none seemed possible.
Later, in Isaiah 60:13, the same tree is brought from Lebanon to beautify the sanctuary. Here, the wood represents the best of creation offered back to God. It reminds us that our worship involves bringing our finest resources and efforts to honor Him. The durability of the tree reflects the lasting nature of God’s promises.
Even when we face dry seasons in life, this word assures us that God can bring forth beauty and strength. He uses what is solid and enduring to build His purposes. We can trust that He will provide stability and hope in our own spiritual wildernesses.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ box tree[s]1×
- and/ box tree1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וּ/תְאַשּׁ֖וּר2×
Key Verses
-
Isaiah 41:19
I will put cedar, acacia, myrtle, and oil trees in the wilderness. I will set cypress trees, pine, and box trees together in the desert;
This verse lists the teashur among other valuable trees to show God's power to make the wilderness bloom with diverse, sturdy life.
-
Isaiah 60:13
“The glory of Lebanon shall come to you, the cypress tree, the pine, and the box tree together, to beautify the place of my sanctuary; and I will make the place of my feet glorious.
Here the tree is brought specifically to beautify the sanctuary, highlighting its value in worship and God's glory.