Biblical References:
The account of the withered fig tree is found in the Synoptic Gospels, specifically in Matthew 21:18-22 and Mark 11:12-14, 20-25. These passages describe an event during the final week of Jesus' earthly ministry, often referred to as Passion Week.

Context and Setting:
The incident occurs shortly after Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, a time when He was openly declaring His messianic identity. The fig tree episode is set against the backdrop of Jesus' cleansing of the temple, a symbolic act of judgment against the religious leaders of Israel.

Narrative Description:
In Matthew 21:18-19 , the narrative begins: "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). The following day, the disciples notice the tree has withered from the roots (Mark 11:20).

Symbolism and Interpretation:
The withered fig tree is rich in symbolic meaning. In the Old Testament, the fig tree often represents Israel (e.g., Hosea 9:10, Joel 1:7). The absence of fruit on the tree, despite its outward appearance of health, serves as a metaphor for Israel's spiritual barrenness. The religious leaders of the time, much like the fig tree, displayed an outward form of godliness but lacked the genuine fruit of righteousness and faith.

Jesus' cursing of the fig tree is a prophetic act, symbolizing the impending judgment on Israel for its failure to recognize and accept the Messiah. This act underscores the importance of genuine faith and the consequences of spiritual hypocrisy.

Lessons on Faith and Prayer:
Following the withering of the fig tree, Jesus uses the opportunity to teach His disciples about faith and prayer. In Matthew 21:21-22 , Jesus says, "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 power of faith and the necessity of believing prayer. It encourages believers to trust in God's ability to accomplish the impossible and to approach Him with confidence and expectation.

Theological Implications:
The withered fig tree narrative highlights several key theological themes. It serves as a warning against fruitlessness and the dangers of external religiosity without true devotion. It also affirms the authority of Jesus as the righteous judge and the importance of faith in the life of a believer.

Furthermore, the event foreshadows the transition from the old covenant, centered on the nation of Israel, to the new covenant, which opens the way for all nations to come to God through faith in Christ. The withered fig tree thus stands as a poignant reminder of the call to bear fruit in keeping with repentance and the transformative power of genuine faith.