Bible Dictionaries
Cedar

Holman Bible Dictionary

A tree grown especially in Lebanon and valued as building material (probably Cedrus libani ). Cedar played a still-unknown role in the purification rites of Israel (Leviticus 14:4; Numbers 19:6 ). Kings used cedar for royal buildings (2 Samuel 5:11; 1 Kings 5:6; 1 Kings 6:9-7:12 ). Cedar signified royal power and wealth (1 Kings 10:27 ). Thus the cedar symbolized growth and strength (Psalm 92:12; compare Ezekiel 17:1 ). Still, the majestic cedars could not stand before God's powerful presence (Psalm 29:5 ). The cedars owed their existence to God, who had planted them (Psalm 104:16 ). See Plants in the Bible .