Pronunciation: [ʃˈɪtɪm] (IPA) 
The word "shittim" is typically spelled with two t's and represents a type of acacia tree found in the Middle East. The phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈʃɪtɪm/. The first sound is a "sh" sound, followed by a short "i" sound like in "hit." The double "t" makes the second syllable stressed and pronounced like "tim." The word's Hebrew origin is "shittah," which also means "acacia tree."
Shittim is a noun that refers to a type of tree mentioned in the Bible. It is derived from the Hebrew word "sheṭṭīm," which means thorny or acacia tree. The word "shittim" is primarily used to describe the wood obtained from this tree. Shittim wood is a highly durable and hard material, which makes it suitable for various applications.
In the Bible, the shittim wood is particularly important as it was used to construct various sacred objects, most notably the Ark of the Covenant. It is mentioned in the Book of Exodus, where God commanded Moses to build the Ark using shittim wood. The wood was known for its resistance to decay, ensuring the longevity of the Ark. Shittim wood's high-quality and resilience made it a chosen material for crafting sacred items and structures.
The shittim tree itself is native to the arid regions of the Middle East, particularly the Sinai Peninsula. It is a small to medium-sized tree with sharp thorns, yellow flowers, and pods. The wood of the shittim tree is dense, strong, and dark reddish-brown in color. Its durability and resistance to insects and decay make it a valuable resource in construction and carpentry.
Overall, shittim is a term primarily used to describe the wood obtained from the thorny acacia tree, known for its strength and durability, extensively used in ancient times for constructing sacred objects like the Ark of the Covenant.
A species of wood of which the tables, altars, and boardings of the Jewish tabernacle were made.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "shittim" has Hebrew origins. It is derived from the Hebrew word "shittah", which refers to a type of acacia tree. These acacia trees are found in the region of Sinai and surrounding areas. The wood of the shittah tree was highly prized and used for various purposes, such as building the Tabernacle in the Bible. Over time, the word "shittim" came to refer not only to the tree but also to the wood itself.
