Sycomore
Sycomore
SYCOMORE.The sycomore tree (, Luk 19:4 only), of which mention is made in the story of Zacchaeus, is the Ficus sycomorus. The Gr. name means literally a fig-mulberry, and was bestowed upon it because it yielded a fruit akin to the fig, while its leaves, which are heart-shaped, bore some resemblance to those of the mulberry. In the OT it is called shikmm (1Ki 10:27 etc.), from which is probably derived the Gr. , though that denotes a quite different tree (see Sycamine). The sycomore, which must not be confounded with the British sycamore (A cer pseudo-Platanus), flourishes best in districts having a warm, equable climate. In Palestine it is found principally along the coast and in the low-lying plains around Jericho, and is often planted by the roadside. In the extreme north of Syria it is not met with, as it is not hardy enough to withstand the occasional frosts (Psa 78:47). It attains a great size, and its principal branches being long and wide-spreading, and its foliage plentiful, it yields a most delightful shade. It is deciduous, but the old leaves do not fall off till the new ones come out. Its fruit resembles that of the common fig (Ficus carica), but is much smaller, and very much inferior in flavour. It is eaten only by the poorer classes of the population. The figs, of which there are several crops each year, grow on short, leafless stems which spring from the trunk and from the larger branches. The process of ripening is hastened by cutting off the apex of the fruit or making an incision in it (cf. Amo 7:14 where the prophet describes himself as a nipper of sycomore-figs). The tree is very easily climbed, and its lower branches are a favourite perch for children.
Hugh Duncan.
Fuente: A Dictionary Of Christ And The Gospels
Sycomore
SYCOMORE (shiqmm. 1Ki 10:27, 1Ch 27:28, 2Ch 1:15; 2Ch 9:27, Isa 9:10, Amo 7:14; shiqmth, Psa 78:47; (Gr.) sykomorea, Luk 19:4).This is the sycomore fig (Fics sycamorus), a tree often 50 feet high, with an enormous trunk. It bears poor figs (Amo 7:14), but furnishes good timber. It is not to-day In abundance as of old (1Ki 10:27), but considerable numbers flourish still in the plain around Jaffa. This tree must not be confused with the sycamore (Acer pseudo-platanus) of our home lands, which is a species of maple. See also Sycamine.
E. W. G. Masterman.