18 East – Olive Branch
Mary M. Detlefs – Donor
Olive trees are mentioned nearly seventy times in the Bible, from Genesis all the way through to the Revelation to John. It was the olive branch brought to Noah by the dove that signaled God’s re-preparation of the earth following the flood. It was olive oil burning in the lamps, as well forming the base for anointing oils fragranced by spices and resins, such as myrrh. It was at the Mount of Olives where Jesus preferred to step back and speak with his disciples. And, it was at Gethsemane (“oil press” in Aramaic) where Jesus underwent his agony and arrest.
See also: 15 West – Dove with Olive Sprig.
Command the people of Israel to bring you pure oil of beaten olives for the lamp, that a light may be kept burning regularly. —Leviticus 24:2