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. 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 to people of biblical times.
Perhaps the gardener in Luke 13:1-9 is Jesus Christ who in the end will judge our lives. But the priests in our parishes are also the workers in the Lord’s vineyard who bring God’s word to us and bring the love of Jesus Christ to us through the sacrament of communion and through their homilies. Our parish communities also works toward cultivating a welcoming atmosphere and encouragement to be actively involved in the life of the parish. However, after many years of attending mass, receiving the sacraments and being involved in the life of the parish, it should begin to show in how we treat one another.
Does it? Have we noticed any new growth in our soul and how we treat others? How are we doing? Hopefully we have made some progress in being kinder to others and giving those around us a little more care and attention, because of the graces we are receiving through the increase in our prayer life.
