Algum
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Algum (sometimes rendered Almug) is a type of wood referred to in the Bible. According to the Second Book of Chronicles (II Chronicles 2:8), it was used, together with cedar and pine, in the construction of Solomon's Temple: "for the house which I am about to build shall be wonderful great". Likely the wood was brought by the ships of Tarshish, sent from the Red Sea port of Ezion-Giber, from the distant country of Ophir, and was very valuable.
The botanical identity of algum is not known for certain, though most references suggest it may be juniper (Juniperus). Several species of juniper occur in the Middle East region, including Juniperus excelsa (Greek Juniper), Juniperus foetidissima (Stinking Juniper), Juniperus phoenicea (Phoenician Juniper), and Juniperus drupacea (Syrian Juniper). It is likely that the woods of these species, which are all very similar in woodworking properties, would have not been distinguished from each other in the wood trade.
Categories: Bible | Wood
