Bush

A type of shrub that can refer to various plants such as the senna bush, hawthorn, acacia, or other similar shrubs.

Burning bush
Burning bush (Adolphus Ypey (Wikimedia Commons)) Burning bush

About Bush

A bush is a low, branching, woody plant. A bush is usually smaller than a tree. There are different opinions about the bush from which God appeared to Moses (Exodus 3:2–4). From the biblical account, it seems most likely that this was a miraculous event.

However, some people look for a natural explanation. They believe the burning bush may have been the crimson-flowered mistletoe or acacia strap flower (Loranthus acaciae). This plant grows in great numbers as a partial parasite on various acacia shrubs, such as the thorny acacia (Acacia nilotica). These shrubs grow in Israel and the surrounding areas, as well as Sinai. When in full bloom, the mistletoe makes the shrub or tree appear to be on fire. This happens because its brilliant flame-colored blossoms stand out against the green leaves and yellow flowers of the host plants.

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Habitat, identification, and how translators render the term across languages.

Key References

Exodus 3:2

There the angel of the LORD appeared to him in a blazing fire from within a bush. Moses saw the bush ablaze with fire, but it was not consumed.

Deuteronomy 33:16

with the choice gifts of the land and everything in it, and with the favor of Him who dwelt in the burning bush. May these rest on the head of Joseph and crown the brow of the prince of his brothers.

All Scripture References (4)

Exodus (3)
Exodus 3:2

There the angel of the LORD appeared to him in a blazing fire from within a bush. Moses saw the bush ablaze with fire, but it was not consumed.

Exodus 3:3

So Moses thought, “I must go over and see this marvelous sight. Why is the bush not burning up?”

Exodus 3:4

When the LORD saw that he had gone over to look, God called out to him from within the bush, “Moses, Moses!” “Here I am,” he answered.

Deuteronomy (1)
Deuteronomy 33:16

with the choice gifts of the land and everything in it, and with the favor of Him who dwelt in the burning bush. May these rest on the head of Joseph and crown the brow of the prince of his brothers.