ADVENT TIP OF THE DAY 2: Salvation history through the Jesse tree

MJ. Smith

I am adding these posts to the previous tip list L/V 10 Tip of the Day ;

QUESTION: What is a Jesse tree?

ANSWER:

A Jesse Tree is a visual representation of Jesus' family tree, tracing His lineage from creation to His birth. It serves as an Advent tradition that helps people, especially children, understand the biblical narrative leading up to Christ's arrival.

Origins and Symbolism

The Jesse Tree is named after Jesse, the father of King David, based on a prophecy in Isaiah 11:1-4. This prophecy speaks of a shoot coming from the stump of Jesse, symbolizing new life and new beginnings, which Christians interpret as referring to Jesus.

Historical Context

Jesse Trees originated in medieval times as large carvings, tapestries, or stained glass windows in churches. They were designed to help illiterate people learn about the Bible from creation to the Christmas story.

Modern Usage

Today, Jesse Trees are often used as a type of Advent calendar in homes and churches:

Structure: It can be a real tree, a banner, or even a regular Christmas tree.

Ornaments: Each day of Advent, a special ornament representing a biblical story or character is added to the tree.

Devotional Practice: Typically, a Bible passage or story is read before hanging each ornament, helping families reflect on salvation history.

Symbols and Stories

Jesse Trees usually include symbols representing key figures and events from the Old Testament, such as:

Creation: The earth

Noah: A rainbow

Abraham: A tent

Moses: A burning bush

David: A six-pointed star

Mary: A white lily

Jesus: A baby in a manger

By connecting these stories, the Jesse Tree demonstrates God's plan for salvation throughout history, culminating in the birth of Jesus.

QUESTION: Give an example list of Jesse tree symbols that illustrates salvation history?

ANSWER: Note that depending on your denomination, there is no Advent, Advent starts on December 1, Advent starts on the 4th Sunday before Christmas, or Advent starts on November 15. Symbols and individuals may be modified to fit the needs of the family or congregation.

1. Creation - Symbol: Sun, Moon, Stars
2. Adam and Eve - Symbol: Tree with Fruit
3. Noah - Symbol: Ark or Rainbow
4. Abraham - Symbol: Stars or Torch
5. Sarah - Symbol: Tent
6. Isaac - Symbol: Ram
7. Jacob - Symbol: Ladder
8. Joseph - Symbol: Coat of Many Colors
9. Moses - Symbol: Burning Bush
10. Joshua - Symbol: Trumpet
11. Rahab - Symbol: Red Cord
12. Ruth - Symbol: Sheaf of Grain
13. Samuel - Symbol: Horn of Oil
14. Jesse - Symbol: Tree Stump
15. David - Symbol: Harp or Crown
16. Solomon - Symbol: Temple
17. Elijah - Symbol: Chariot of Fire
18. Elisha - Symbol: Two-headed Axe
19. Hezekiah - Symbol: Sundial
20. Isaiah - Symbol: Scroll
21. Jeremiah - Symbol: Almond Branch
22. Ezekiel - Symbol: Four-faced Creature
23. Daniel - Symbol: Lions
24. Jonah - Symbol: Whale
25. Micah - Symbol: Bethlehem
26. Habakkuk - Symbol: Watchtower
27. Zechariah (Prophet) - Symbol: Golden Lampstand
28. Malachi - Symbol: Sun of Righteousness
29. Joachim and Anna - Symbol: Golden Gate
30. John the Baptist - Symbol: Shell with Water
31. Zechariah (Priest) - Symbol: Incense Altar
32. Elizabeth - Symbol: Mother and Child
33. Joseph (Mary's husband) - Symbol: Carpenter's Tools
34. Mary - Symbol: Lily
35. Gabriel - Symbol: Trumpet
36. Simeon - Symbol: Doves
37. Anna the Prophetess - Symbol: Scroll
38. Shepherds - Symbol: Sheep
39. Magi - Symbol: Star
40. Jesus - Symbol: Manger

Note that Stoner, Marcia, and Marcia Stoner. Symbols of Faith: Teaching Images of the Christian Faith. Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press, 2010 emphasizes the Jesse tree in the context of teaching the images common in the Christian faith.