cedar

A tree mentioned frequently in the Bible. The cedar lives to a great age, as many as two thousand years, therefore attaining great height and diameter. Consequently, it is often referred to as a symbol of strength and power (Ezek 31; Ps 92:12). Cedar was also preferred for the construction of buildings: Solomon’s Temple and palace in Jerusalem had timbers and panels of cedar sent by the king of Tyre (1Kgs 5:6-10; 1Kgs 9:11; 2Chr 2:3). The “cedar of Lebanon” (Ps 37:35) is apparently the laurel, whose fragrant evergreen leaves are symbols of prosperity and distinction.