Innocent, gently and fresh. These are words that might readily come up in your mind when you are asked to describe an almond tree.
Although the Almond tree is native to regions in the Middle East, it has become a common sight all over the world, well except in Antarctica.
Almond trees are closely related to peaches and they are also known for the oil that is extracted from the fruits. The oil is useful for skin and hair care and that is why Almond is one of the most coveted trees in the beauty industry.
The usefulness of Almond did not start today. Almonds have been commonly used by man for a period that dates back even to Bible Times.
Let us now consider how the Almond tree has been symbolized and the meaning it bears from the Bible’s standpoint.
Almond tree symbolism
A first glance when it blossoms, the Almond tree is a wonderful sight to behold. It is simply beautiful and precious. The tree usually blossoms late in January or early in February. When this happens, it signifies that the ideas of early or beginning.
Almonds trees also bear significant symbolism in religion. Jews who practice Judaism consider the Almond tree to be a sign for the “Tree of Life”.
This view is further seen in the method that the Menorah (Some sort of candle holder used in celebrating Hanukkah) is shaped.
Aside from Judaism, Almond trees also have cultural meanings. The Aramaic word for Almonds, “luz” when translated can be said to mean “Light”.
The Canaanites and Sumerians also have stories that feature Almond trees as a symbol of light.
Almond tree meaning
As we have earlier mentioned, Almond trees often symbolize early because they are one of the first flowers to blossom at the start of the year. This attribute has allowed for the Almond tree to mean virginity.
The nature of the fruit gives a similar picture to purity and virginity. How? The outer skin of the fruit covers the nuts that are kept within, which immediately brings up the idea that what is within is important and kept sacred; just as is the case with virginity.
Indians also see Almond as connected to sex and they consider anyone who eats it to have performed a sexual act.
One big factor that contributed to making Almond considered as a symbol of virginity is the myth of Atys. People believe that the god Atys was conceived from an almond by a virgin.
It is also believed that having a dream about almond means that you have a problem or issue that is connected with sex.
Biblical meaning of an Almond tree
The almond tree is placed with high regard in the Bible. This we know because of the number of times that it was mentioned and also the circumstances that surrounded why it was mentioned. The almond tree was mentioned both in the Hebrew and Greek part of the scriptures.
Desirable product
An almond tree was mentioned in the very first book of the Bible at Genesis 43:11. Here Almond is described as one of the finest products in the land which shows just how important it is.
Later in Exodus 25:33, the Israelites were given the instruction on how the Golden Lampstand in the Tabernacle should look.
The lampstand was to have cups like almond blossoms. This gives the meaning that almonds played an important role in worship.
Approval
When God wanted to choose His spokesman, He asked them to set down their rod and the rod of the person that blossoms, is the one He chooses.
The next morning, Aaron’s rod budded almond leaves and ripe fruits. In this case, almond was used as a sign of approval.
Symbol of resurrection
One bible research site called Plants of the Bible is mentioned to have said that almonds meant a symbol of resurrection because they were one of the trees that blossomed first.
Old Age
Another reference was made to Almond trees at Ecclesiastes 12:5. In this verse, the almond tree is used to represent old age. Almond blossoms are usually white in color which signifies the grey hair of an old man or woman. Read more : #28 Meaning of Almond Tree in The Bible & Symbolism
Conclusion
Apart from the great benefits that we can enjoy from almond trees, either the beautifying effects or taste; the almond tree is one that has a lot of meaning.
Many cultures view it as a sign of virginity, some others see it as the “Tree of life” because of it’s beautiful white flowers blossom first among the trees.
In the Bible, the almond tree carries a lot of meaning. It is used as a sign of approval, as a symbol of resurrection and sometimes it could be understood to mean old age. Whatever the case, almond trees are a symbol of good things.
On behalf of the author, thank you so much for taking the time to read this article !
