Biblical Reference:
The Vision of Two Baskets of Figs is found in the Book of Jeremiah, specifically in Jeremiah 24:1-10. This vision is a prophetic message delivered by the prophet Jeremiah during the early years of the Babylonian exile.

Historical Context:
The vision occurs after King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon has taken Jeconiah (also known as Jehoiachin), the son of Jehoiakim, king of Judah, along with the officials, craftsmen, and artisans, into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon. This event marks a significant moment in the history of Judah, as it represents the beginning of the Babylonian captivity, a period of profound trial and transformation for the Jewish people.

The Vision:
Jeremiah describes seeing 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 basket contains very bad figs, so bad that they cannot be eaten.

Interpretation and Symbolism:
The LORD explains the vision to Jeremiah, using the two baskets of figs to symbolize two distinct groups of people from Judah:

1. The Good Figs:
The good figs represent the exiles from Judah whom God has sent away to the land of the Chaldeans for their good. In Jeremiah 24:5-7 , the LORD declares, "Like these good figs, so I regard as good the exiles from Judah, whom I have sent away from this place to the land of the Chaldeans. I will regard them as good, and I will bring them back to this land. I will build them up and not tear them down; I will plant them and not uproot them. I will give them a heart to know Me, that I am the LORD. They will be My people, and I will be their God, for they will return to Me with all their heart."

This group is seen as having a hopeful future, as God promises to restore them, build them up, and establish a renewed relationship with them. The exile, though painful, is portrayed as a refining process that will ultimately lead to their spiritual renewal and return to the land.

2. The Bad Figs:
The bad figs symbolize King Zedekiah, his officials, and the remnant of Jerusalem who remain in the land or have fled to Egypt. In Jeremiah 24:8-10 , the LORD says, "But like the bad figs, which are so bad they cannot be eaten, says the LORD, so will I deal with Zedekiah king of Judah, his officials, and the remnant of Jerusalem—those remaining in this land and those living in the land of Egypt. I will make them a horror and an evil to all the kingdoms of the earth, a reproach and a byword, a taunt and a curse, in all the places where I will banish them. I will send the sword, famine, and plague against them until they are destroyed from the land that I gave to them and their fathers."

This group is destined for calamity and destruction due to their disobedience and unfaithfulness. Their refusal to heed God's warnings through the prophets results in severe judgment.

Theological Themes:
The vision underscores the themes of divine judgment and mercy. It highlights God's sovereignty in using the exile as a means of discipline and purification for His people. The contrasting outcomes for the two groups emphasize the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God. The vision also foreshadows the eventual restoration and redemption of a remnant, pointing to God's enduring covenantal love and faithfulness.

Relevance for Today:
The Vision of Two Baskets of Figs serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the hope of restoration through repentance. It calls believers to trust in God's sovereign plans, even in times of trial, and to seek a heart that truly knows and follows the LORD.