The concept of Sacred tree in Christianity
Synonyms: Holy tree, Divine tree, Spiritual tree
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'Sacred tree'
From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)
(1) These are trees that were associated with older religious practices, and had their negative connections removed by linking them with a significant event in Israel's history.[1] (2) These were considered the abode of superhuman spirits or numina and were frequently present in the stories of the patriarchs, forming tree-sanctuaries.[2] (3) Trees that were universally revered by early Semites, which the asherahs or sacred poles were theorized to be substitutes for in Canaanite worship.[3] (4) The tree planted by Abraham in Beersheba, which held religious importance, mentioned in Genesis 21:33.[4] (5) A tree considered holy or significant, often linked to religious rituals or practices.[5]
From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository
(1) A natural element symbolizing fertility and associated with the worship of Ashtoreth, representing growth and life.[6] (2) A symbol of the goddess of nature found in Assyrian sculptures, representing the connection between femininity and the natural world.[7] (3) A symbol associated with Asheerah, reflecting religious significance in Assyrian beliefs.[8]
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) The priests were suspended on sacred trees, overshadowing their temple as a form of punishment for their crimes, as the soldiers of the country can attest to.[9]