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H6086 · Hebrew · Old Testament
עֵץ
Ets
Noun, masculine
Tree, Wood, Timber

Definition

The Hebrew noun ets (עֵץ) means tree, wood, or timber. It appears over 320 times and spans the entire biblical narrative — from the trees of Eden to the wood of the temple and the tree on which Christ was hung (Acts 5:30).

Usage & Theological Significance

The ets that dominates the biblical story is the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. But the tree motif reverses in the New Testament: Christ hangs on a tree (Galatians 3:13), bearing the curse, and Revelation closes with the tree of life accessible to all who overcome. The wood of the ark, Passover door frames, cedar of the temple — all point to God's restorative purposes through the material world.

Key Bible Verses

Genesis 2:9
The tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil.
Psalm 1:3
He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season.
Galatians 3:13
Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree.
Proverbs 3:18
She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her.
Revelation 22:2
On either side of the river, was there the tree of life.

Related Words

External Resources

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