Scientists Grow a ‘Lost’ Biblical Tree from a 1,000-Year-Old Seed

Scientists have successfully grown a tree from a mysterious seed found in a Judean desert cave, believed to be the ancient “tsori” tree mentioned in the Bible for its medicinal properties,1and named it Sheba.

The seed, radiocarbon dated to between 993 and 1202 AD, has sprouted into a 10-foot tall tree after nearly 14 years of careful cultivation. Could this lost tree hold the key to rediscovering ancient cures?

Medicinal Properties Hint at Biblical Significance

Scientists Grow a 'Lost' Biblical Tree from a 1,000-Year-Old Seed - Commiphora Myrrh ss2375865353
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Chemical analysis of Sheba’s leaves and resin showed a treasure trove of biologically active compounds, including pentacyclic triterpenoids with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer potential. The tree’s tissues were also rich in squalene, an antioxidant and skin-smoothing substance.

These findings support the hypothesis that Sheba represents the lost “tsori” tree, a valuable resource in biblical times associated with healing but not necessarily fragrant like the “Balm of Gilead.” The seed was identified as a species of Commiphora.

The medicinal properties align with descriptions of “tsori” in ancient texts, suggesting this could indeed be the enigmatic tree of legend.

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Further research is needed to fully unravel the secrets hidden within Sheba’s leaves and resin.

Extinct Species Revived Through Resurrection Genomics

Scientists Grow a 'Lost' Biblical Tree from a 1,000-Year-Old Seed - Judean Desert ss1663171246
Image Credit: John Theodor/Shutterstock

The successful germination of Sheba from a 2,000-year-old seed highlights the exciting potential of “resurrection genomics,” using preserved ancient seeds to bring back lost species and study their unique characteristics. (ref)

This approach allows scientists to circumvent the challenges of working with degraded ancient DNA.

Researchers can gain valuable insights into past environments, economies, and cultures by growing plants from historic seeds. Sheba provides a rare glimpse into the flora of the Judean Desert a millennium ago and its significance in ancient societies. 

Resurrecting extinct species also holds promise for reinforcing populations of rare plants and preserving biodiversity in the face of climate change and habitat loss.

The Future of Sheba & Ancient Judean Date Palms

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While Sheba has yet to flower and produce the reproductive material needed for more detailed analysis, scientists are hopeful that further study will shed light on its exact species and relationship to other Commiphora plants. 

Efforts are also underway to cultivate Sheba and other ancient seeds in conditions mimicking their original environment to encourage flowering and reproduction.

In a related project, Dr. Elaine Solowey successfully germinated 2,000-year-old Judean date palm seeds discovered at Masada, with the first tree named “Methuselah” after the long-lived biblical figure. (ref)

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Solowey is now working to establish an ancient date grove based on biblical descriptions, offering a fascinating comparison to the dates produced by Methuselah and its offspring today.

The resurrection of Sheba and the Judean date palms is more than a scientific curiosity – it’s a testament to the resilience of nature and the ingenuity of the researchers dedicated to unlocking the secrets of our botanical heritage. 

As we continue to explore the potential of these ancient seeds, who knows what other lost wonders we may uncover?

Source:

  1. ResearchGate
davin
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.