אֹרֶן
𐤀𐤓𐤍
ʼôren
H766 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A type of tree, specifically a coniferous tree—most likely the pine tree (Pinus species), used in the Hebrew Bible primarily as a material for construction and ornamentation. The term denotes a strong and resilient timber prized for its wood, not necessarily the 'ash' tree as known in modern English, but a native species of tall, straight-trunked conifer occurring in the mountainous regions of the Levant.
Semantic Range
pine tree, strong timber tree, construction wood, ornamental tree, (erroneously) ash tree
Root / Etymology
Root uncertain, possibly related to אָרָן (ʾărān), which also designates a kind of tree, with connotations of strength or firmness. The exact derivation is unclear, though historically linked to the idea of strong/of strong timber.
Historical & Contextual Notes
The term אֹרֶן occurs rarely in the Hebrew Bible (notably in Isaiah 44:14 and 60:13), where it is listed among trees used for construction or for the decoration of Temples and public buildings. Its identification as 'ash' in earlier translations is imprecise; botanical and linguistic evidence better supports identification with local pines or similar conifers. In contrast to cedars (אֶרֶז, ʾerez), oaks (אֵלוֹן, ʾelon), and cypresses (בְּרוֹשׁ, berosh), the אָרֶן is associated with straight, workable timber. Standard English translations vary (ash, fir, pine), often reflecting translation tradition rather than botanical accuracy. In post-biblical Hebrew, the term continues to designate tall, useful coniferous trees, but specific species identification remains debated. The semantic association with strength likely arises from the durable, straight-grained wood of the tree.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from the same as אֲרָן (in the sense of strength); the ash tree (from its toughness); ash.
Bantu Hebrew
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ארן (ʾ-r-n) — strong tree, conifer, firm timber
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H766-01 |
אֹ֖רֶ | ore | HNcmsa |
fir | pine tree | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H766-01 |
Isaiah 44:14 | אֹ֖רֶ | ore | HNcmsa |
fir | pine tree |