Trees in the Bible
Life, righteousness, and the cross.
Trees in the Bible frame the whole story of Scripture — from the tree of life in Eden, to the cursed tree on which Christ was hung, to the tree of life in the New Jerusalem.
Key KJV Verses
"...the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil."
"And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water..."
"...the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits...and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations."
From Eden's tree to Calvary's
Adam reached for forbidden fruit on a tree; Christ bore our curse upon a tree (Galatians 3:13). The cross is the answer to Eden's tragedy.
The righteous as trees
Psalm 1 and Jeremiah 17 compare the righteous to trees planted by water — rooted, fruitful, and unafraid of drought.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do trees symbolize in the Bible?
Life, righteousness, and ultimately the cross of Christ that restores access to the tree of life.
Why is the cross called a tree?
To connect Christ's death with the curse of Deuteronomy 21:23 — He became a curse for us, hung upon a tree.
Related Bible Symbols
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
Psalm 1:1-3 — Meaning & Devotional
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Biblical Meaning of a Tree in a Dream (KJV)
The righteous life, generations, or judgment on fruitlessness.
Psalm 128:1 — Meaning & Devotional
Blessed Life
Psalm 19:14 Commentary
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Psalm 39:4 Commentary
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What Is the Tree of Life?
Theology & Doctrine