The Tree of Life is a profound symbol found within the biblical narrative, representing divine provision, eternal life, and the interconnectedness of creation. Its presence is primarily noted in the Book of Genesis and the Book of Revelation, serving as a bookend to the biblical account and illustrating God's eternal plan for humanity.

Genesis and the Garden of Eden

The Tree of Life first appears in Genesis 2:9, where it is planted by God in the Garden of Eden: "And out of the ground the LORD God made to grow every tree that is pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil" . Here, the Tree of Life symbolizes the life-giving presence of God and His intention for humanity to live in perpetual communion with Him. It stands as a testament to the abundance and sustenance provided by God, offering eternal life to those who partake of its fruit.

The narrative of the Fall in Genesis 3 further underscores the significance of the Tree of Life. After Adam and Eve's disobedience, God expels them from the garden to prevent them from eating from the Tree of Life and living forever in a fallen state: "Then the LORD God said, 'Behold, the man has become like one of Us, knowing good and evil. And now, lest he reach out his hand and take also from the tree of life, and eat, and live forever...'" (Genesis 3:22). This act of divine protection highlights the tree's role as a source of eternal life, now inaccessible due to sin.

Proverbs and Wisdom Literature

The Tree of Life also appears metaphorically in the wisdom literature of the Old Testament. In Proverbs, it is associated with wisdom, righteousness, and fulfilled desires. Proverbs 3:18 states, "She is a tree of life to those who embrace her, and those who lay hold of her are blessed" , linking the pursuit of wisdom with the life-giving qualities of the tree. Similarly, Proverbs 11:30 declares, "The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise" , suggesting that righteous living and the pursuit of godly wisdom lead to life and blessing.

Revelation and the Restoration of Creation

The Tree of Life reemerges in the eschatological vision of the Book of Revelation, symbolizing the restoration of creation and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Revelation 2:7 promises, "To the one who is victorious, I will grant the right to eat from the tree of life in the paradise of God" , indicating the reward of eternal life for those who overcome through faith in Christ.

In the final chapter of Revelation, the Tree of Life is depicted as part of the New Jerusalem, where it stands on either side of the river of the water of life: "Down the middle of the main street of the city. On either side of the river stood a tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit and yielding a fresh crop for each month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations" (Revelation 22:2). This imagery conveys the complete restoration and healing available through God's eternal kingdom, where the Tree of Life once again provides sustenance and life to all who dwell there.

Theological Implications

The Tree of Life serves as a powerful symbol of God's provision, the promise of eternal life, and the ultimate restoration of creation. It underscores the biblical theme of life as a gift from God, contingent upon a relationship with Him. The tree's presence in both the beginning and the end of the biblical narrative highlights the continuity of God's redemptive plan and His desire for humanity to partake in His eternal life through faith and obedience.