Topical Bible: The Fig-Tree: Fruit of First Ripe Esteemed

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The fig tree holds significant symbolism and practical importance throughout the biblical narrative. It is one of the first plants mentioned by name in the Bible and is frequently associated with prosperity, peace, and divine blessing. The fig tree is often used metaphorically to represent Israel and its spiritual state.

Biblical References and Symbolism

The fig tree is first mentioned in Genesis 3:7, where Adam and Eve use fig leaves to cover themselves after the Fall. This early mention sets the stage for the fig tree's recurring presence in Scripture as a symbol of provision and human effort.

In the context of ancient Israel, the fig tree was a valuable agricultural asset. Its fruit was a staple in the diet, and its leaves provided shade. The fig tree's ability to produce fruit twice a year made it particularly esteemed. The first ripe figs, known as "bikkurah," were especially prized for their sweetness and were often seen as a sign of the coming harvest.

Esteemed First Ripe Fruit

The esteem for the first ripe figs is highlighted in several biblical passages. In Hosea 9:10, God compares Israel to the early fruit on the fig tree: "When I found Israel, it was like finding grapes in the wilderness; I saw your fathers as the first fruit of the fig tree in its first season." This imagery underscores the delight and value God placed on Israel when He first chose them as His people.

Similarly, in Jeremiah 24:1-3, the prophet receives a vision of two baskets of figs placed before the temple of the Lord. One basket contains very good figs, like those that ripen early, while the other contains very bad figs. The good figs represent the exiles who will return and be restored, emphasizing the value of the first ripe fruit as a symbol of hope and renewal.

The Fig Tree in the Teachings of Jesus

The fig tree also features prominently in the teachings of Jesus. In the Gospels, Jesus uses the fig tree as a metaphor for spiritual fruitfulness and judgment. In Mark 11:12-14, Jesus curses a barren fig tree, which withers as a sign of judgment against unfruitfulness. This act serves as a powerful illustration of the expectation for spiritual productivity and the consequences of failing to bear fruit.

Moreover, in the parable of the fig tree found in Luke 13:6-9, Jesus tells of a fig tree planted in a vineyard that fails to produce fruit. The owner seeks to cut it down, but the gardener pleads for one more year to cultivate it. This parable highlights God's patience and desire for repentance and fruitfulness among His people.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient Near East, the fig tree was a symbol of peace and prosperity. Sitting under one's own fig tree was an expression of safety and contentment, as seen in Micah 4:4: "Each man will sit under his own vine and under his own fig tree, with no one to frighten him. For the mouth of the LORD of Hosts has spoken."

The fig tree's ability to thrive in the Mediterranean climate made it a common sight in the landscape of Israel. Its fruit, leaves, and wood were all utilized, making it an integral part of daily life and a fitting symbol for the nation of Israel.

Conclusion

The fig tree, with its esteemed first ripe fruit, serves as a rich symbol throughout the Bible. It represents God's provision, the spiritual state of His people, and the expectation of fruitfulness. Through its various appearances in Scripture, the fig tree continues to convey profound theological truths about God's relationship with His people and His desire for their spiritual growth and prosperity.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Jeremiah 24:2
One basket had very good figs, even like the figs that are first ripe: and the other basket had very naughty figs, which could not be eaten, they were so bad.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Hosea 9:10
I found Israel like grapes in the wilderness; I saw your fathers as the first ripe in the fig tree at her first time: but they went to Baalpeor, and separated themselves to that shame; and their abominations were according as they loved.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

How Taricheae was Taken. A Description of the River Jordan, and of ...
... another hundred and twenty furlongs, it first passes by ... nourishes different sorts
of autumnal fruit beyond men's ... and "found leaves" on a fig tree near Jerusalem ...
/.../chapter 10 how taricheae was.htm

Sermons on Selected Lessons of the Gospels.
... and grounded on Apostolic truth, [1083]259; first founded on ... Fig tree, the barren
in parable, the human race under ... 1096]389, [1097]390; seeking fruit on, out ...
/.../sermons on selected lessons of.htm

The Second Commandment
... miracles of Christ, did wonder when the fig-tree was cursed ... part of the fruit is
offered; in obedience, fruit and tree ... some of the second and not of the first. ...
/.../watson/the ten commandments/2 2 the second commandment.htm

Israel's Hope Encouraged;
... 'Kind brings forth its kind, know the tree by his fruit, and God ... But Nathaniel was
under the fig-tree, alone with God, to inquire of him, and that with ... First. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/israels hope encouraged.htm

Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest
... NINEVEH AND THE FIRST COSSAEAN KINGS-THE PEOPLES OF SYRIA, THEIR TOWNS,
THEIR CIVILIZATION, THEIR RELIGION-PHOENICIA. The dynasty ...
/.../chapter iisyria at the beginning.htm

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
... He professes to give the title-page, word for word, as it was first printed, It
is, 'Mr. John Bunyan's last sermon, at London, preached at Mr. Gamman's meeting ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm