CEDAR. — A majestic tree with prized wood, 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 wood of the cedar was widely used by Solomon in his many sumptuous constructions (1 Kings 5:6; 7:2, etc.) and likewise by wealthy Jews in their palaces (Isa. 9:10). It was also used to build ships (Ezek. 27:5) or idols (Isa. 44:14). Considered 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).
Literarily, the metaphor “cedar of Lebanon” signifies power, beauty, or reckless pride (Zech. 11:1; Ezek. 31:3; 17:3, 22; Amos 2:9). With reference to the cedar of Lebanon, the triumph of the just 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 (Ecclus. 24:17) are described using the image of the cedar.