Biblical References:
The account of the cursing of the fig tree is found in the Synoptic Gospels, specifically in Matthew 21:18-22 and Mark 11:12-14, 20-25. These passages describe a significant event during the final week of Jesus' earthly ministry.

Context and Setting:
The event occurs shortly after Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, a time when He was preparing His disciples for the culmination of His mission. The cursing of the fig tree is set against the backdrop of Jesus' cleansing of the temple, highlighting themes of judgment and the expectation of genuine faith and fruitfulness.

Narrative Description:
In Matthew 21:18-19 , it is written: "In the morning, as Jesus was returning to the city, He was hungry. Seeing a fig tree by the road, He went up to it but found nothing on it except leaves. 'May you never bear fruit again!' He said. And immediately the tree withered."

Mark's account provides additional details, noting that it was not the season for figs (Mark 11:13). Despite this, Jesus approaches the tree, seeking fruit. When He finds none, He pronounces a curse upon it, and the next day, the disciples observe that the tree has withered from the roots (Mark 11:20-21).

Symbolism and Interpretation:
The fig tree is often interpreted as a symbol of Israel, representing the nation's spiritual barrenness despite outward religiosity. The presence of leaves without fruit signifies a form of godliness lacking true substance. Jesus' act of cursing the fig tree serves as a prophetic sign of judgment against unfruitfulness and hypocrisy.

The event underscores the importance of bearing spiritual fruit, a theme consistent with Jesus' teachings throughout the Gospels. In John 15:2 , Jesus states, "Every branch in Me that bears no fruit, He takes away; and every branch that does bear fruit, He prunes, that it may bear more fruit."

Lessons on Faith and Prayer:
Following the cursing of the fig tree, Jesus uses the incident to teach His disciples about the power of faith and prayer. In Matthew 21:21-22 , He tells them, "Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only will you do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, 'Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,' it will happen. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."

This teaching emphasizes the necessity of unwavering faith and the assurance that God responds to the prayers of those who trust in Him. It also serves as a reminder of the authority granted to believers through faith in Christ.

Theological Implications:
The cursing of the fig tree is a profound illustration of divine judgment and the expectation of genuine righteousness. It challenges believers to examine their own lives for spiritual fruitfulness and to rely on God's power through faith and prayer. The event also foreshadows the impending judgment upon Jerusalem and the religious leaders who failed to recognize and accept the Messiah.

Conclusion:
The cursing of the fig tree remains a powerful narrative that calls for introspection and a commitment to authentic faith. It serves as a warning against spiritual complacency and an encouragement to pursue a life that bears fruit in accordance with God's will.