Bible Dictionary
TABOR, OAK OF
The Oak of Tabor was a landmark mentioned in Samuel’s instructions to Saul after his anointing. Its exact location is unknown, and it should not be confused with the mountain of Tabor.
Definition
The Oak of Tabor was a landmark mentioned in Samuel’s directions to Saul after his anointing. Its exact location is unknown and it is distinct from Mount Tabor.
Biblical Usage
Saul was instructed to meet people at or near the Oak of Tabor while returning toward Gibeah.
Historical Background
Suggestions identifying it with the palm tree of Deborah or the oak of Deborah lack supporting evidence. Nothing definite is now known about the site.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>(PLAIN OF TABOR in the King James Version) (elon tabhor; he drus Thabor): A place mentioned only in Samuel's directions to Saul after his anointing (1Sa 10:3). It lay between the city where the two met and Gibeah whither Saul was returning. Ewald and Thenius thought it might be identical with the palm tree of Deborah, but there is nothing to support this conjecture. Others have thought we might read "oak of Deborah," as signifying the place where Rachel's nurse was buried (Ge 35:8). The truth is that nothing whatever is now known of the site.</p><p>W. Ewing</p>