צֶאֶל
𐤑𐤀𐤋
tseʼel
H6628 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A type of tree, most likely the lotus tree (Ziziphus spina-christi) or a similar species noted for its slender growth and ability to provide shade. In biblical context, the term refers primarily to the tree's physical qualities, such as its form, slenderness, and capacity to offer shelter or shade.
Semantic Range
a slender tree, lotus tree, shade-providing tree
Root / Etymology
Root: צאל. The word is believed to derive from an unused root meaning 'to be slender' or 'lean.' Although the root itself does not appear in extant biblical Hebrew outside of nominal forms, the nominal derivative refers to a tree recognized for its slim, elegant shape. Some suggest a connection to cognate Semitic terms with similar meanings related to slenderness or shade.
Historical & Contextual Notes
צֶאֶל appears only sparingly in the Hebrew Bible and is used in contexts describing flora of the region. The precise identification of the species denoted is debated, though the lotus tree (Ziziphus spina-christi) is the most commonly suggested referent due to its slender aspect and prevalence in ancient Canaan. In ancient Israelite society, shade-providing trees were culturally significant, being valued for comfort and as symbols of shelter. The term's meaning should not be conflated with other Hebrew words for shade (e.g., צֵל) or shade trees (e.g., אֵשֶׁל, tamarisk), which have different nuances and usage. Later translations sometimes render the word as 'shady tree' or 'lotus,' but these may reflect interpretive rather than literal understandings. The word is rarely used and does not develop significant metaphorical meaning in biblical literature.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from an unused root meaning to be slender; the lotus tree; shady tree.
Bantu Hebrew
No Bantu Hebrew comparisons have been submitted for this word yet.
+ Add Bantu Hebrew WordRoot Family
צאל (ṣ-ʾ-l) — to be slender, lean, slim
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H6628-01 |
צֶאֱלִ֥ים | tseelim | HNcmpa |
lotus plants | slender shade-trees | 2 |
Occurrences in Scripture
2 total occurrences