Olive Wood Christmas Ornament Bethlehem

The Olive Tree is a subtropical, broad-leaved, evergreen tree, which has edible fruit. The tree ranges in height from 3 to 8 meters or more, and has numerous branches. Its leaves, leathery and lance-shaped are dark green and are paired opposite each other on the twig. In October, the trees are pruned and the wood is sold to craftsmen who create priceless pieces of art. .."The Wood is from the tree of life, those who embrace her; those who lay hold of her will be blessed." (Proverbs 3:18 : New International Version)

Olive Wood- An Ancient Art Form During the time of the Crusades, an ancient art form emerged, which came to be known as the Olive Wood Industry. Artists, who came from Europe, settled in Bethlehem and started this unique industry. Ever since, Olive Wood carving was taught from generation to generation until it was perfected and mastered. Although this industry depends on simple hand tools, it is maintained as such to preserve the Biblical heritage and the religious significance of the Olive Tree to the Christian community..."Down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. (Revelation 22:2: New International Version)

The Olive Tree has both a sentimental and religious significance. According to the Bible, it is believed that Jesus prayed underneath an Olive Tree in the Garden of Gethsemane after the Last Supper. This sacred tree is still in existence today. The Bible repeatedly refers to the Olive Tree as a symbol of peace, fertility, and prosperity. In the story of Noah's Ark, a branch from an Olive Tree was brought back to the Ark by Noah's Dove symbolizing peace. Also, on Palm Sunday, pilgrims carry Olive Wood branches commemorating the Lord's entry into Jerusalem. Thus, the Olive Tree became a dominant symbol of the Holy Land.