Hebrew · Strong's H3844
לְבָנוֹן
(leb-ah-NOHN)
proper noun
Lebanon is a prominent mountain range in the northern Levant, famous for its abundant cedar forests.
The Hebrew term לְבָנוֹן (lebanon) consistently refers to the geographical region of Lebanon, particularly its mountain range. The name itself likely derives from the Semitic root for "white," possibly referring to its snow-capped peaks or the light color of its limestone cliffs. Primarily, Lebanon is known for its extensive cedar forests, which held significant economic and symbolic value in the ancient world. These cedars were a prized building material, used in monumental constructions like Solomon's Temple and palace, and are a recurring motif in prophetic and poetic literature.
Beyond its natural resources, Lebanon also functioned as a territorial boundary and a place of residence. Its strategic location made it a locus of trade and cultural exchange, while its rugged terrain offered both refuge and a challenge for control by various regional powers. The biblical texts often associate Lebanon with majesty, strength, and lushness, particularly in reference to its cedars. However, it can also symbolize pride or be used in prophetic warnings of desolation, contrasting its former glory with divine judgment.
The imagery of Lebanon and its cedars is employed to convey theological truths about God’s power, the transience of human glory, and restoration. The "glory of Lebanon" becomes a metaphor for prosperity and beauty, a gift from God. Conversely, its destruction or desolation serves as a powerful illustration of divine wrath and the consequences of sin. In some prophetic contexts, the transformation of Lebanon is linked to messianic hopes and the renewal of creation.
Common English renderings
- Lebanon
- Mount Lebanon
- Forest of Lebanon
Key verses
"Now therefore command thou that they cut me cedar-trees out of Lebanon; and my servants shall be with thy servants; and I will give thee hire for thy servants according to all that thou shalt say: for thou knowest that there is not among us any that knoweth how to cut timber like unto the Sidonians."
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"and upon all the cedars of Lebanon, that are high and lifted up, and upon all the oaks of Bashan,"
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"For he built the house of the forest of Lebanon; the length thereof was a hundred cubits, and the breadth thereof fifty cubits, and the height thereof thirty cubits, upon four rows of cedar pillars, with cedar beams upon the pillars."
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"Behold, the Assyrian was a cedar in Lebanon with fair branches, and with a forest-like shade, and of high stature; and its top was among the thick boughs."
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"His legs areaspillars of marble, set upon sockets of fine gold: His aspect is like Lebanon, excellent as the cedars."
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Related words