Every morning I head out to our old barn to tend to our animals. As I walk, I look around in amazement of the abundant gifts that God has bestowed upon us. Even in the height of summer when much has withered and turned brown, I still see the gifts of God all around me. On this morning's walk, it hit me, that this is a fallen world, and despite this being a fallen world, we are still surrounded by God's glory and beauty; I can only imagine what the new heaven and new earth will be like - incomprehensible beauty abound! I fell into a deep contemplation of Genesis 1-2 and Revelation 21.
Genesis 1:11-13 And God said, “Let the earth sprout vegetation, plants yielding seed, and fruit trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind, on the earth.” And it was so. The earth brought forth vegetation, plants yielding seed according to their own kinds, and trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. And there was evening and there was morning, the third day.
Genesis 2:8-9, 15-17 And the Lord God planted a garden in Eden, in the east, and there he put the man whom he had formed. And out of the ground the Lord God made to spring up every tree that is pleasant to the sight and good for food. The tree of life was in the midst of the garden, and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it. And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, “You may surely eat of every tree of the garden, but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.”
Revelation 21:1-4 Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
In Genesis 1-2 we see that God created everything from nothing, showing us that God is almighty and has boundless creativity. He created the plants and animals for us and gave us dominion over them, directing us to be good stewards. Reading these verses serves as a powerful reminder of His love for us, and His expectations of us.
This has all got me to thinking. In addition to being excited for the new heaven and earth, there's another excitement brewing in me - a desire to garden with a whole new approach and in a new light. There's a space at the church I attend where a playground once stood. Tucked gently amongst mature conifers, this space seems destined to transform into a serene biblical garden, where the stories of the Bible can come alive for the Sunday school children. While I haven't finalized my plant choices, my heart leans toward a fusion of fragrant aromatics, timeless herbs, and delightful fruits – a tapestry that mirrors the diverse plant references woven throughout the Bible. The bible refers to quite a few plants, I've selected a few of them to review.
Isaiah 28:25 Does he not level its surface and sow dill and scatter cumin and plant wheat in rows, barley in its place and rye within its area | Isaiah 28:27 For dill is not threshed with a threshing sledge, nor is the cartwheel driven over cumin; but dill is beaten out with a rod, and cumin with a club. | Matthew 23:23 "Woe to you, scribes and Parisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier provisions of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness; but these are the things you should have done without neglecting the others. |
Cumin - you may also see it as cummin in some bibles. It is a highly aromatic seed spice with culinary and medicinal uses. Among its many uses, cumin supports healthy digestion, holds antibacterial properties, and even offers relief for anxiety and insomnia. You're probably no stranger to cumin's role in curry sauces. Blended with coriander, fennel, and turmeric, this mixture isn't just about flavor; it's about soothing the inevitable indigestion that often accompanies the joys of spicy curry. And yet, cumin's talents extend far beyond the curry pot. Its versatility shines when sprinkled onto eggs, toasted bread, vibrant salads, and is a surprising delight when infused into honey.
Dill - ah, poor dill. Often overshadowed by its association with pickles, this herb has a wealth of qualities that deserve our attention. While it's true that dill is the unsung hero behind many pickling adventures, its potential extends far beyond the world of briny cucumbers. Did you know that dill has been a reliable remedy for digestive woes? It's a soothing solution for concerns that include gas, stomach discomfort and hiccups. Dill, being rather similar to fennel, has been used to soothe colic. Dill has a delicate somewhat sweet flavor that can transform dishes with fish, potatoes, and creamy sauces, elevating their taste profiles in a uniquely refreshing way. And here's a fascinating tidbit: dill doesn't just enhance your culinary creations; it can freshen your breath too. Packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants, dill's virtues extend well beyond the pickle jar.
Mint - most likely the main mint of the bible was spearmint as it is believed to be the oldest of the mints. As you are well aware, the aromatics of spearmint are colling, refreshing and uplifting. Its gentleness sets it apart from its peppermint counterpart, making it the choice for children. As a gentle digestive aid, spearmint finds its place as an aperitif or a digestif. Its soothing touch extends beyond the stomach as it offers relief to those suffering from headaches stemming from tension or sinus congestion. Spearmint is best known for its refreshing flavor which makes a great ingredient from everything from oral care products to teas and salads; spearmint with invigorate your senses while soothing your soul. Try growing some spearmint in your container garden to have it available for making teas, sauces, cordials and tinctures to help with bringing gentle relaxation and mental clarity to any day.
Genesis 43:11 Then their father Israel said to them, "If it must be so, then do this: take some of the best products of the land in your bags, and carry down to the man as a present, a little balm and a little honey, aromatic gum and myrrh, pistachio nuts and almonds..." | Leviticus 2:1 And when any will offer a meat offering unto the Lord, his offering shall be of fine flour; and he shall pour oil upon it, and put frankincense thereon... | Jeremiah 8:22 Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there? Why then is there no healing for the wound of my people? | Matthew 2:11 And when they were come into the house they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. |
Frankincense - an aromatic resin that comes from the scrubby Boswellia trees. It is hard to mention frankincense without mentioning myrrh, this is most likely because we are all most familiar with the story of the wise men bringing frankincense, myrrh and gold to baby Jesus. The valuable resin of frankincense once journeyed alongside gold, grains, and spices, a testimony to its revered status. In the Old Testament, its use stretched across multiple dimensions – from perfumes and incense to offerings and sacrifices to the Lord. Boswellia trees, the source of frankincense, thrive in hot and dry climates. Here in Western Oregon, the odds of cultivating these trees might be slim to none, but my curiosity is peaked. The thought of playing a role in preserving this exquisite aromatic species fills me with a sense of excitement. The process of obtaining the resin involves slashing the tree to allow the resin to flow. Once the resin dries, it transforms into a harvestable treasure. Yet, it's essential to tread carefully; reckless resin harvesting can kill the tree, rendering the Boswellia trees endangered. The therapeutic potential of frankincense extends beyond its captivating aroma. When applied topically, the resin brings relief to aches and pains that plague our bodies – muscle tension, joint stiffness, and menstrual discomfort amongst them. The incense or essential oil can envelop us in its embrace to ease our nervous system; from releasing the grips of depression, insomnia, and anxiety, frankincense soothes the mind, body and soul. The complexities surrounding frankincense, remind us of the delicate balance we must strike between utilizing God's gifts and ensuring their preservation. Frankincense is more than a resin; it's a lesson in responsibility and stewardship, urging us to recognize our role in safeguarding the beauty that God has bestowed upon us.
Myrrh - Similar to frankincense, myrrh emerges as a treasure borne from the dried resin of a very spiny tree, specifically the Commiphora myrrha. This resin can be employed as-is or distilled into an exquisite essential oil that carries the essence of the ages. The Bible can reveal some of myrrh's multi-faceted significance. In the Old Testament, myrrh graced beauty treatments, as witnessed in the story of Esther. Its role extends even to precious gifts, as seen in the above verses from Genesis and Matthew. Myrrh was the primary ingredient in an anointing oil prescribed by God to Moses (Exodus 30:22), and it played a significant role in the burial preparation of Jesus by Nicodemus and Joseph. The allure of myrrh does not fade through the ages; its reputation persists, enriched with both medicinal and emotional virtues. Myrrh's unique value remains steadfast. Beyond its historical uses, myrrh embraces us with its captivating aroma and therapeutic benefits, standing as a reminder of the intricate ties between ancient wisdom and the ever-continuing need for well-being. Today, myrrh serves as a topical healer, alleviating pain and aiding in healing. Its tincture works as an expectorant, easing stubborn phlegm, and as a mouthwash, it safeguards gum health with its disinfecting properties. Much like Boswellia, Commiphora trees thrive in dry, elevated climates, a fact that, unfortunately, might exclude them from my garden's embrace.
Balm - either mentioned as balm or balm in Gilead, now referred to as balm of Gilead. Unfortunately, it is not clear which tree was the one which produced the rare perfume and medicinal balm of the Biblical times, but it is believed that it was either the Commiphora gileadensis or Commiphora opobalsamum, types of Arabian balsam trees. The sappy secretions were gathered from the tree and mixed with spices and oils to make the medicinal balm. The Commiphora opobalsamum, also referred to as Mecca myrrh, is thought to be the source of the "stacte" in the Exodus verse above with the recipe for temple incense. In contemporary times, the fresh resinous buds of balsam poplar or cottonwood trees have stepped into the role of the modern-day Balm of Gilead. Revered for their anesthetic and analgesic properties, this balm becomes a balm for the body, offering relief from the discomforts of joint and muscle pain. The historical echoes of the Biblical balm resonate with the continued healing properties of the balm.
Numbers 12:23 When they reached the Valley of Eshkol, they cut off a branch bearing a single cluster of grapes. Two of them carried it on a pole between them, along with some pomegranates and figs. | Deuteronomy 8:8 a land of wheat and barley, of vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive trees and honey | Isaiah 38:21-22 Now Isaiah had said, "Let them take a cake of figs and apply it to the boil, that he may recover." Hezehiah also had said, "What is the sign that I shall go up to the house of the Lord?" | Matthew 7:16 You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? | Romans 11:24 After all, you were cut out of an olive tree that is wild by nature, and contrary to nature were grafted into a cultivated olive tree, how much more readily will these, the natural branches be grafted into their own olive tree! |
Fig - The fruit of figs are a delicious food and were a mainstay of the people in Mesopotamia and the Holy Land. Beyond their gastronomic delights, figs reveal their versatility as a gentle laxative, offering digestive support, and as a nurturing skin tonic, bestowing care upon the body's largest organ. Their potential to promote healthy blood sugar levels adds to their allure, while the sap from figs serves as a natural remedy for skin irritations such as insect bites, eczema, and psoriasis. The fruit can be used to make a syrup that can be used to treat coughs, cold and upper respiratory complaints. The herbal preparation described in the above Isaiah verse was a type of poultice or compress using the dried fruit potentially mixed with flour, vinegar and honey. Fig leaves are also both edible and wonderfully medicinal for internal and external needs. Fig trees originate in the warm Mediterranean and Asiatic climates and grow in zone 8 or warmer, or if you are able to get a hardy variety it may withstand colder winters. They also prefer full sunlight and loamy fertile soil.
Grapes - the grapes of the Bible were mainly for winemaking, but as you well know, some grape varieties are great for eating and making juices and jellies, and the seeds can be pressed to make grapeseed oil. The leaves can also be used like fig leaves as a food wrap, such as Dolmas. The health benefits of grapes are as diverse as their uses. Bursting with nutritional value and antioxidants, grapes extend cardiovascular support, foster healthy blood sugar levels, enhance eye health, potentially offer cognitive benefits, and help manage inflammation. Beyond their nutritional prowess, grape vines open the gateway to creative crafts, serving as a source of inspiration and artistic exploration. Just as a vine extends its tendrils, grapes weave their presence into every aspect of life.
Olive - a powerful symbol of peace, trust, and faith in the Almighty Father. Recall the olive branch carried by the dove in the story of Noah from the book of Genesis and recall the two witnesses in the book of Revelation embodied as olive trees. Throughout the Bible, the olive maintains an enduring presence. This significance is no coincidence; it's a testament to the profound impact olives hold. As we delve into their rich history, it's evident that olives have transcended time, standing as both revered symbols and cherished treasures. Beyond their culinary wonders, olives carry deeper connotations. Often symbolizes longevity, olive trees reflect God's enduring promises by their slow growth and ability to bear fruit for generations. Just as the tree remains steadfast against the passage of time, the faithful followers of God stand firm, deeply rooted in His love. We cannot forget that olives are also food, both in the delightful olive fruit that enriches our palates and the rich olive oil that elevates culinary experiences. And the story continues; even their leaves offer medicinal potential to support cardiac health and serve as an antimicrobial agent.
Pomegranate - meaning grained apple, symbolize the powerful abundance and generosity of God. This vibrant fruit carries a deep symbolism, chosen by God to adorn the priest's garments and embellish the temple itself. The pomegranate tree, often taking the form of a shrub or modest tree, dons oval green leaves that frame vibrant scarlet blossoms in the spring. These blossoms give way to fruits that mature in early autumn, each bearing a treasure trove of juicy seeds. These seeds present a delightful duality of flavors, oscillating between sweetness and a gentle acidity that occasionally beckons a sprinkle of sugar to enhance their allure. Extracting the juice from these seeds yields a rich syrup, a versatile companion for beverages. It's fascinating to note that in days of yore, this juice was even transformed into wine, offering a glimpse into the versatile role this fruit played in ancient times. Beyond its historical significance, pomegranates have a wealth of health benefits. Despite being low in calories and fat, they are replete with fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals. The bounty of antioxidants found within pomegranates promotes heart health, urinary well-being, and exercise endurance, among other advantages. As we savor the unique combination of flavors and textures within each succulent seed, we're reminded of God's unceasing generosity and the rich tapestry of blessings He provides through His creations.
Numbers 19:6 And the priest shall take cedarwood and hyssop and scarlet yarn, and throw them into the fire burning the heifer. | Psalm 37:35 I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree. | Psalm 51:7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. | Song of Solomon 4:14 nard and saffron, calamus and cinnamon, with all trees of frankincense, myrrh and aloes, with all choice spices | Mark 14:3 And while he was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he was reclining at table, a woman came with an alabaster flask of ointment of pure nard, very costly, and she broke the flask and poured it over his head. | John 19:29 A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth. |
Bay - also referred to as bay laurel, sweet bay, sweet laurel or its official Latin name Laurus nobilis. The sweet aroma of bay has been renowned for its ability to inspire and boost self-esteem. The leaves of the bay tree hold a significant role in purification and cleansing throughout history. They were burned as incense, not only cleansing the air but also purifying people. In times of plague, their cleansing properties unknowingly eradicated airborne bacteria and pathogens. Across Greek, Roman, and British traditions, bay leaves were placed at front doors, acting as protective guards against illness, especially during times of plagues. Bay laurel crowns embody a narrative of purification, honor, and heroism. These crowns adorned the heads of soldiers not just to celebrate valor, but to mend inner wounds. The legacy of victory echoes in the laurel wreaths worn by athletes and scholars, symbolizing triumph and intellectual excellence. Yet, beneath the laurel's triumphs, a thread of vanity may be discerned. Psalm 37:35-36, "I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree. Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found," delivers King David's timeless lesson. This passage urges humility, meekness, and righteousness over vanity. Just as the seemingly invincible bay tree can ultimately fade, the pursuit of empty power can lead to downfall. The symbolic presence of the bay tree, a symbol of strength and yet a reminder to seek humility, resonates across eras, inviting us to embrace the virtues of God.
Spikenard - referred to in the Bible simply as nard. In ancient times, nard was an exceedingly valuable plant and perfume. Imported from the Himalayan region in India, it adorned Solomon's court and persisted into the New Testament era. Nard was used as both an ointment and an oil and is now available as an essential oil. In a touching moment, Mary of Bethany anointed Jesus's feet with nard ointment as a form of offering, this was quite a shock to the disciples as the pure nard ointment was not only renowned for its pleasing fragrance, but it also had an exceptional cost. Spikenard is related valerian, both having calming effects on the nervous system, yet spikenard also can be mentally uplifting, reduce stress and pain. Nard is a perennial plant, standing at about three feet tall, with pink bell-shaped flowers and an aromatic rhizome root, often utilized for its fragrance. The spikenard essential oil holds calming properties and aids respiratory functions, again drawing similarities to valerian though with a milder sedative effect.
Hyssop - originally from the Mediterranean, has been cherished as a medicinal plant for millennia. In the days of the Old Testament, hyssop played a part in cleansing and potentially aiding the healing of lepers. Leviticus 14:4 describes its use in the purification ritual for lepers, and Psalm 51:7 invokes hyssop's purifying qualities with the words "purge me with hyssop and I shall be clean," likely tied to the prevalence of leprosy at the time. Hyssop's use as a cleansing agent is also notable; in the Middle East, the dried plant was utilized as a brush for cleaning temples and individuals deemed unclean. The Romans, recognizing its ceremonial and healing properties, introduced hyssop wherever they settled. Roman Emperor Charles I issued an edict mandating the cultivation of hyssop in physick gardens after experiencing its health benefits firsthand. This herb has maintained a lasting reputation for addressing common issues like cold and flu symptoms, acute and chronic pain, and more. Its warming properties lend themselves to relieving conditions characterized by congestion, delayed menses, bruises, and fevers. Throughout history, hyssop has maintained a consistent presence in home gardens, being used as both a culinary spice and medicinal remedy. You can easily access hyssop, whether through commercial sources or by cultivating it in your garden.
Genesis 6:14 So make yourself an ark of cypress wood; make rooms in it and coat it with pitch inside and out. | 2 Samuel 5:11 And Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David, and cedar trees, also carpenters and masons who built David a house. | 1 Kings 4:33 He spoke of trees, from the cedar that is in Lebanon to the hyssop that grows out of the wall. He spoke also of beasts, and of birds, and of reptiles, and of fish. | Isaiah 44:14He cut down cedars, or perhaps took a cypress or oak. He let it grow among the trees of the forest, or planted a pine, and the rain made it grow. | Isaiah 55:13 Instead of the thornbush will grow the juniper, and instead of briers the myrtle will grow. This will be for the LORD’s renown, for an everlasting sign, that will endure forever. |
Cedar - While various cedar species exist, the specific cedars that flourished in the Holy Land are Cedrus libani and C. atlantica. These majestic cedars of Lebanon, referenced about 70 times in the Bible, have a significant presence. They played a pivotal role in Old Testament rituals, intertwined with purification, sacrifices, and the care of lepers, underscoring their enduring significance. Towering evergreens, they not only embody strength but also exude an enchanting fragrance that marries sweetness with a subtle pungency. The motif of purification resonates across all cedar varieties, even touching the realm of soothing restless minds. This theme of purification has transcended time, continuing to find relevance in our contemporary world. The very essence of cedar, encapsulated within its essential oil and leaves, holds coveted medicinal benefits. The essential oil, derived from its bark, extends its soothing touch, known for its gentle, calming, and focus-enhancing attributes. It further extends its support to respiratory health, mental clarity, and acts as a reliable insect repellent. In today's landscape, cedar leaves are use in herbal formulations, enriching teas and tinctures for those suffering from skin and urinary tract complaints. As a part of nature's awe-inspiring wonders, cedar stands tall as a testament to strength, purification, and its enduring, timeless significance.
Cypress - towering evergreens (Cupressus sempervirens) find their home in the regions depicted within the Bible, among the captivating beauties of their time, exude an unparalleled grandeur. Awe-inspiring giants that soar to heights of 50 to 115 feet and stretch from three to 10 feet in width at their prime. Originating from the Persian region, they flourish naturally in the eastern Mediterranean realms of Greece, Turkey, and Israel, thriving in zones 7-11. Withstanding scorching, dry summers and enduring damp winters, cypress trees exemplify remarkable resilience. Their historical role in construction is noteworthy, thanks to their robustness and commanding stature. Cypress, alongside fellow evergreens like cedars, firs and pines, presents remarkable medicinal attributes, particularly in aiding respiratory health. Cypress essential oil, characterized by its woody, evergreen notes underscored by resin and balsamic tones, harmoniously blends with other evergreens, citrus, and floral scents such as lavender. This soothing oil assists in sinus congestion relief, minor wound care, and is a common addition to homemade deodorants and cleaning solutions. Cypress leaves, wood, and essential oil play multifaceted roles globally, contributing to furniture crafting, coffin making, the perfume industry, body care products, and even pharmaceuticals. In essence, the cypress embodies a varied tapestry of practicality, symbolism, and therapeutic efficacy, firmly rooted in history and embracing modern applications. Thank the good Lord that the garden area that I am contemplating already has a towering Cypress tree.
Myrtle - an aromatic evergreen shrub of the greater Mediterranean area, it has been used for medicine and more for thousands of years. This shrub boasts glossy green leaves and white star-shaped flowers, often found artfully shaped as hedges or topiaries in temperate climates. Symbolically, myrtles, like other trees, may have represented the strength of the Jewish people. Guided by the instructions in the book of Leviticus, myrtle plays a role in Jewish rituals during the Feast of Tabernacles. Leviticus 23:40 states, "And you shall take on the first day the fruit of splendid trees, branches of palm trees and boughs of leaf trees and willows of the brook, and you shall rejoice before the Lord your God seven days." The Israelites' history reflects periods of straying from God's teachings, leading to their Babylonian exile for 70 years. Yet, through the trials of exile, a remnant remained faithful, and upon their return, a revival occurred, marked by renewed devotion and rebuilding the temple. In the book of Nehemiah, we witness the power of revival as Israelites reconnect with God's desires. Nehemiah 8:15 mentions their use of myrtle branches and other foliage for worship, representing a return to faith and connection with their heritage. Myrtle stands as a testament to both the enduring traditions of the past and the revitalization of spiritual values that transcend time. Its evergreen presence encourages us to remain "evergreen" in our devotion to God.
Although I still need to finalize my plant list, contemplating the possibility of bringing this biblical garden to life, a sense of excitement and purpose fills my heart. The vision of a serene space where the stories of the Bible come alive for generations to come ignites a spark of inspiration within me. Just as the scriptures have guided and nourished souls throughout history, this garden has the potential to offer a tangible connection to those ancient teachings. With each choice of plant, I am handpicking messengers of faith, healing, and guidance. This garden-to-be embodies a journey of intentionality and devotion, a harmonious blend of aromatic plants, timeless herbs, and symbolic trees. As I work on transforming this vision into reality, I am reminded of God's creation narrative, the abundance of His blessings, and the promise of a new heaven and new earth. My heart skips a beat with anticipation, knowing that this endeavor is not just about cultivating plants; it's about nurturing a sanctuary where spiritual truths flourish, reminding us that God's presence and wisdom are woven into the very fabric of creation.
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