The fig tree provides unique symbolism in the Bible and understanding this symbolism can help us on our spiritual journey. From Genesis to Revelation mention of its fruit and leaves are woven throughout. Not only did Adam and Eve use its leaves to cover themselves in Genesis, the fig tree drops its un-ripened fruit in Revelation. So what can the fig tree reveal to us? And how can we better understand our place in God’s universe by developing a bit of an understanding of the fig tree?
Jewish Symbolism
To begin, during Biblical times the fig tree represented Jewish Nationalism, prosperity, and security for the Jewish people. A little nap under the fig tree promised the ultimate experience of peace. Kind of like resting in a favorite hammock on a carefree sunny afternoon – except much better! Both major and minor prophets of the Old Testament and Jesus himself used fig tree imagery beautifully.
The Jewish people also knew that it took time for the fig tree to grow. Significant care and attention must be given to this tree before fruit is produced. In light of this, any positive mention of a fig tree, or its good fruit, conjured up images of well-earned Godly abundance and goodness. Yummy figs and the reception of God’s blessings are both worth waiting for indeed.
Fig tree symbolism is rather edifying and it offers insight into the minds of the people of antiquity. Mention of its good fruit and bad fruit in Jeremiah divided the “good” and “bad” people; those who followed God’s commands and those who did not. The mention of bad fruit would bring to mind the distancing of God and the withdrawal of his hand. Also, in the Gospel of Mark we see the messianic act of cleansing the Temple. Here the withered fig tree represents the Jewish authorities who made God’s house a “den of thieves”.
Jesus and Nathanael
In today’s Gospel we see Nathanael, soon to become the Apostle Bartholomew, had been sitting under the fig tree. Nathanael was probably experiencing all kinds of goodness as he reclined there. You see, Jesus came for all people, Jews and Gentiles alike, and he was always on the look-out for true lovers of God. When he saw Nathanael he saw a “true child of Israel, one of whom there is no duplicate”. Wow, Nathanael must have been a pretty amazing young man! He was indeed very amazing. Nathanael, a Jew, knew who Jesus was when he saw him. By proclaiming “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel” Nathanael, unlike many around him, knew who he was standing face to face with – the long promised Messiah.
Next Jesus goes on to share with Nathanael of bit of God’s divine realm – God’s angels “ascending and descending on the Son of Man”. Jesus told Nathanael that he will indeed see this! Nathanael learned that he will have first-hand experience of God’s divine realm. How cool is that.
Revelation, Angels, and the Supernatural World
There is much more to God’s universe then we can experience as human beings. Today’s first reading of Daniel or Revelation (we have two to choose from today) reveal a bit of this to us. The imagery is beautiful and powerful. A world where God takes his Throne and his angels win the battle of good and evil conjure up amazing images in my mind – how about you? I believe this supernatural world is more “real” than the world we know and Jesus shared a bit of this divine world with Nathanael.
Make no mistake about it, God’s supernatural world and his angels are all around us. Our human senses and limitations hinder our ability to see them as they truly are. God’s angels are continually present, ready to offer comfort, support, and protection. Remember, they also experienced the power of the Devil and his demons. They understand how brutal their attack can be. Yet, God’s angels won the battle “by the Blood of the Lamb”. The forces within this supernatural world, good and evil alike, are all subject to the Lamb – they must all submit to him.
The Good Figs
All of God’s children are invited to be “good figs”. We can be like Nathanael who headed God’s commands. Wouldn’t you just love for Jesus to look at you in the same manner he looked at Nathanael? When we become good figs we will experience true nationalism, prosperity, and security and the Kingdom will be revealed to us. As good figs we will rest in divine well-being and happiness.
Yes, trials will happen. After all, those pesky fallen angels are still roaming around trying to steal our joy and happiness. However, we can call on God’s angels for assistance – especially Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael. I invite you to call on them for help and guidance. They have already fought the battle and they know how to win. They will ascend and descend on the Son of Man as they come to our aid.
Immersed in Divine Love
Given that we are continually immersed in the God’s supernatural divine world, we all have the ability to become “good figs”. The key is developing an understanding of this divine field and learning how to surrender to it.
Sacred Heart of Jesus – have mercy on us.
Father God – consume us.
Holy Spirit – enter into us.
Saint Mother Mary – pray for us.
Archangel Michael – pray for us.
Archangel Gabriel – pray for us.
Archangel Raphael – pray for us.
Note to our readers: Dr. Carolyn Berghuis is taking a short sabatical to finish a research paper on the church mystics, but please be assured she is continuing to pray for the Global Light for Christ Community, and your intentions during this time.
GLOBAL LIGHT FOR CHRIST (GLFC)
We are a community striving to grow in love. If you are seeking to become healed of wounds that can only be healed through the love of Jesus please leave your petition below. We always strive to more fully surrender to the will of our Triune God and together we can make a difference in the world. Let’s pray that we all witness God’s love in the world.
