Olive

The zayit (זית) — the olive — is one of the seven species (shiv'at haminim) with which the Land of Israel is blessed, as described in Deuteronomy 8:8. The olive tree is perhaps the most iconic symbol of the Land of Israel, with ancient groves still producing fruit in the Galilee and Judean Hills that may be over a thousand years old. Olive oil (shemen zayit) played a central role in Temple worship — it fueled the menorah, was used for anointing kings and priests, and accompanied meal offerings. The very word 'Messiah' (Mashiach) means 'the anointed one,' referring to the olive oil ceremony. The miracle of Hanukkah revolves around a small flask of olive oil that lasted eight days. In the Torah, the olive branch is a symbol of peace — the dove returned to Noah's ark carrying a zayit leaf, signaling that the flood waters had receded (Genesis 8:11). This image has become one of the most universal symbols of peace in the world, and the olive branch appears on Israel's national emblem (menorah flanked by olive branches). Modern Israel continues its ancient love affair with the olive. Israeli olive oil has won international awards, and the autumn olive harvest (mesikat zeitim) is both an agricultural event and a cultural celebration. Many Israelis maintain personal olive trees, and planting an olive tree is a common way to commemorate milestones and express hope for the future.