Ancient 1,000-Year-Old Tree, Possibly from Genesis, Brought Back by Scientists

In a stunning breakthrough, scientists have successfully revived a 1,000-year-old tree from a seed found in a cave in the Judean Desert. The seed, dating back to between 993 C.E. and 1202 C.E., was unearthed four decades ago, and its revival has sparked excitement among researchers, who believe the tree may be linked to the biblical “tsori” mentioned in Genesis.

Nicknamed “Sheba,” after the Queen of Sheba who, according to ancient historian Josephus, gifted balsam to King Solomon, the tree is now 14 years old and stands three meters (10 feet) tall. Early DNA analysis revealed that Sheba belongs to the Commiphora genus, which includes myrrh known for its medicinal properties and use in incense and perfumes.

However, the tree's exact identity has proven elusive. Initial speculation suggested that Sheba might be the long-lost “Judean Balsam,” a highly prized plant cultivated in antiquity for its fragrant resin. But after further testing revealed that Sheba’s resin and leaves lacked significant fragrance, scientists shifted their focus. They now believe Sheba could represent an extinct species of Commiphora, producing a resinous extract known as “tsori,” mentioned in the Bible for its healing properties.

Unlike myrrh or frankincense, biblical references to tsori describe it as a medicinal substance rather than a perfume. This hypothesis is supported by chemical analysis, which revealed Sheba's resin to contain compounds with therapeutic benefits, including squalene, known for its skin-healing and anti-tumor properties. The tree’s ancient seed was discovered in the Dead Sea-Jordan Rift Valley, an area historically associated with the tsori plant.

While researchers continue to investigate the tree's origins, they remain divided on how the seed ended up in the cave. Some suggest it may have been stored there by small rodents or birds, while others theorize it was deliberately placed by humans due to its value. However, the lack of other archaeological evidence in the cave suggests that an animal source is more likely.

Though Sheba has yet to produce flowers or fruit, which would provide definitive clues about its species, the discovery has already shed light on the rich biodiversity of ancient Judea and the enduring mystery of plants mentioned in the Bible.

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