Bible Dictionary
Elm
Elm refers to the terebinth tree in Hosea 4:13. This long-lived tree was common in Palestine and was sometimes used as a landmark.
Definition
Elm is the rendering in the Authorized Version of the tree named in Hosea 4:13. The Revised Version renders it “terebinth.” It refers to the Pistacia terebinthus, a long-lived tree common in Palestine.
Biblical Usage
The tree is mentioned in connection with Israel’s idolatrous practices in Hosea. Related tree references were also used in designating places and landmarks.
Historical Background
Because the terebinth was long-lived and common in Palestine, it was used as a landmark and in naming or identifying places.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Hos. 4:13; rendered “terebinth” in the Revised Version. It is the Pistacia terebinthus of Linn., a tree common in Palestine, long-lived, and therefore often employed for landmarks and in designating places (Gen. 35:4; Judg. 6:11, 19. Rendered “oak” in both A.V. and R.V.). (See TEIL TREE.)
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(Hosea 4:13) [See Oak]
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>elm:</p><p>Ho 4:13 the King James Version, but in the Revised Version (British and American)</p><p>TEREBINTH (which see).</p>