CEDAR. - A majestic tree, with valuable timber, mentioned in many biblical passages, generally with the local designation “of Lebanon,” where it grew in great abundance. The name has also passed into scientific language: cedrus libanotica or pinus cedrus Libani or cedrus Libani.
Now, however, only wretched remnants survive in Lebanon. The precious timber of the c. was extensively used by Solomon in his many sumptuous buildings (I Kings 5, 6; 7, 2, etc.), and likewise by wealthy Hebrews in their palaces (Is. 9, 10). It was also used to build ships (Ez. 27, 5) or idols (Is. 44, 14). Regarded as a symbol of life and legal purity because of its incorruptibility, it was also used in liturgical ceremonies (Lev. 14, 4-49; Num. 19, 6).
In literature, the metaphor “c. of Lebanon” signifies power, beauty, or thoughtless pride (Zach. 11, 1; Ez. 31, 2; 17, 3, 22; Am. 2, 9). With reference to the c. of Lebanon, the triumph of the righteous is wished for (Ps. 91, 13), or the pride of the wicked is condemned (Ps. 28, 5; 36, 35). The bridegroom in Cant. 5, 15, and even divine wisdom (Eccl. 24, 17), are described through the image of the c.