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What is Myrtle?
        MYR'TLE
        , a beautiful, fragrant, and ornamental shrub (Myrtus communis), Myrtle. (Myrtus communis.) which abounds in Northern Palestine and once grew about Jerusalem. "In the bazaars of Jerusalem and Damascus the dried flowers, leaves, and berries of the myrtle are to be seen in separate heaps, offered for sale as a perfume, and a fragrant water is distilled from the blossom. Both leaves, bark, and root are used in Damascus for tanning the finest leather, and give it a delicate scent." - Tristram. The seeds of a tropical species of the myrtle, collected and dried before they are ripe, are called pimento, or allspice. For the rich hue of its green polished leaves, its agreeable fragrance and beautiful flowers, this shrub is used by the Bible writers, in contrast with the noxious, useless brier, to illustrate the prosperity and glory of the Church. Isa 41:19; Isa 55:13; Zech 1:8-11. The myrtle furnished the wreaths of ancient heroes and victors. Branches of the myrtle were gathered, among others, to cover the booths and tents of the Jews at the celebration of the feast of tabernacles. Lev 23:40; Neh 8:15.


Bibliography Information
Schaff, Philip, Dr. "Biblical Definition for 'myrtle' in Schaffs Bible Dictionary".
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