Ḫašḫur Eya (Khah-sh-hoor EH-yah)

Apple Tree

The Ḫašḫur Tree stood tall, its branches offering shade in the dappled light of a fertile grove. Its fruit—a soft golden-green hue—hung in clusters, their fragrance inviting yet unassuming. These trees were once revered, not for magic, but for sustenance, shelter, and their central role in the lives of ancient peoples. Legends might have swirled around them, but in truth, they were trees of the earth—rooted deeply in the soil, shaping cultures and ecosystems alike. The Ḫašḫur Eya, known commonly as the Apple Tree, the ḫašḫur tree typically grow to a modest height of 15–20 feet, with gnarled trunks and wide, spreading canopies. the fruit is small to medium-sized, ranging from pale green to red to golden yellow, with a crisp texture and a slightly tart, honeyed flavor. the trees flower in the spring, producing delicate white and pink blossoms that attract pollinators. in modern terms, the ḫašḫur tree is considered an ancestor of cultivated apple varieties, sharing genetic traits with other early domesticates. it is not genetically engineered or magical—merely a hardy, resilient tree with deep roots in history.. It is renowned throughout Tír na nÓg for its unique characteristics and remarkable adaptability, thriving within environments that embody its symbolic and practical significance. This flora species has deeply woven itself into the cultural fabric and traditions of the land. Its presence often signifies deeper spiritual or historical implications, and it frequently acts as a living monument, enhancing sacred spaces, ceremonies, and communal gatherings with its distinct essence and aesthetic appeal. Practically, the Ḫašḫur Eya is utilized extensively in various aspects of daily life and special rituals. Throughout history, the ḫašḫur tree has been central to life. its uses include: - fruit: the apples provided essential nutrition, often eaten fresh, dried, or pressed for juice. - wood: durable and easy to work with, the wood of the ḫašḫur tree was commonly used for tools, household items, and small-scale construction. - symbolism: while not magical, the tree carried profound cultural and spiritual significance, often appearing in sacred art and rituals associated with asherah and fertility. Its multifaceted roles in tradition, spirituality, and practical uses underline its importance, making it an invaluable botanical treasure cherished by the inhabitants of Tír na nÓg.

Basic Information

Ecology and Habitats

The Ḫašḫur Tree typically grow to a modest height of 15–20 feet, with gnarled trunks and wide, spreading canopies. The fruit is small to medium-sized, ranging from pale green to red to golden yellow, with a crisp texture and a slightly tart, honeyed flavor. The trees flower in the spring, producing delicate white and pink blossoms that attract pollinators. In modern terms, the Ḫašḫur Tree is considered an ancestor of cultivated apple varieties, sharing genetic traits with other early domesticates. It is not genetically engineered or magical—merely a hardy, resilient tree with deep roots in history.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Throughout history, the Ḫašḫur Tree has been central to life.
Its uses include:

Fruit: The apples provided essential nutrition, often eaten fresh, dried, or pressed for juice.

Wood: Durable and easy to work with, the wood of the Ḫašḫur Tree was commonly used for tools, household items, and small-scale construction.

Symbolism: While not magical, the tree carried profound cultural and spiritual significance, often appearing in sacred art and rituals associated with Asherah and fertility.

Civilization and Culture

History

The Ḫašḫur Tree has deep roots in the history and spirituality of the ancient world. It was common in groves dedicated to Asherah, where it symbolized life, nourishment, and renewal. These groves, often near springs or rivers, were not merely sacred spaces but also practical sources of food and shade for early agricultural communities. Its connection to the Garden of Eden the tree was often associated with divine gardens and abundance. In the Realm various groves of these trees can be found, with the primary groves tended by Asherah, Adapa, Chavah and Shet. During the Bronze Age, the tree was cultivated and traded across the Near East, with its fruit becoming a staple in both diet and commerce. Over time, the Ḫašḫur Tree’s role shifted as cultivated varieties of apples emerged, yet it remained an enduring symbol of humanity’s connection to the natural world.

Genetic Ancestor(s)

Botanicals: Mortal Flora

Scientific Name

Luibhra; Nádúrtha; Autochthonus hašḫur eya

Geographic Distribution