28: Images of the Desert — Ar'ar and Tamarisk

In this episode of The BEMA Podcast, Marty Solomon, along with co-host Brent Billings and guest Elle Grover Fricks, explore the symbolism of desert trees in relation to faith and spiritual growth, focusing on the ar'ar bush and the tamarisk tree. The discussion begins with a review of the tabernacle and the role of priests, then transitions to the book of Numbers and the imagery of the desert as a place of learning and relationship-building. The ar'ar bush is presented as a symbol of outward appeal masking inner toxicity, contrasted with the acacia tree, which represents inner strength and faithfulness despite outward appearances. The tamarisk tree, requiring cultivation and taking decades to mature, symbolizes acts of service and investment in future generations. The hosts discuss the cultural significance of the tamarisk tree and its connection to the concept of eternity, as represented by Abraham planting a tamarisk tree in Beersheba.