Bible Dictionary
Apple Tree, Apple
The apple tree mentioned in Scripture was a valued and fragrant tree, though its precise identification is uncertain. Proposed possibilities include the apricot, quince, citron, or another fruit tree common in ancient Palestine.
Definition
Apple Tree, Apple refers to the fragrant tree and fruit called tappuach in Scripture. The precise species cannot be established from the supplied evidence.
Biblical Usage
The tree appears in the Song of Solomon and Joel, while its fruit is mentioned in Proverbs and the Song of Solomon. The passages emphasize fragrance, rich appearance, beauty, and pleasantness.
Historical Background
The quince, citron, apricot, and orange have all been proposed, but the supplied material concludes that none fully answers every biblical allusion and that the identification remains open.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(Heb. tappuach). Mention of the apple tree occurs in the Authorized Version in (Song of Solomon 2:3; 8:5) and Joel 1:12 The fruit of this tree is alluded to in (Proverbs 25:11) and Song 2:5; 7:8 It is a difficult matter to say what is the specific tree denoted by the Hebrew word tappuach . (“The apple proper is rare in Syria, and its fruit inferior.”) Most modern writers maintain that it is either the quince or the citron; (others speak of the apricot, which is abundant and deliciously perfumed.) The quince had some plausible arguments in its favor. Its fragrance was held in high esteem by the ancients. The quince was sacred to Venus. On the other hand Dr Royle says,“The rich color, fragrant odor and handsome appearance of the citron, whether in flower or in fruit, are particularly suited to the passages of scripture mentioned above.” But neither the quince nor the citron nor the apple appears fully to answer to all the scriptural allusions. The orange would answer all the demands of the scriptural passages, and orange trees are found in Palestine; but there does not appear sufficient evidence that this tree was known in the earlier times to the inhabitants of Palestine. The question of identification therefore, must still be left an open one.