Topical Encyclopedia The fig tree holds significant symbolism and practical importance throughout the Bible, often representing prosperity, peace, and divine judgment. In the agrarian society of ancient Israel, fig trees were a common and valuable source of food. Interestingly, fig trees were sometimes planted in vineyards, a practice that is mentioned in several biblical passages.Biblical References: 1. Luke 13:6-9 : "Then Jesus told this parable: 'A man had a fig tree that was planted in his vineyard. He went to look for fruit on it, but did not find any. So he said to the keeper of the vineyard, "Look, for three years I have come to search for fruit on this fig tree and haven’t found any. Therefore, cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?" "Sir," the man replied, "leave it alone again this year, until I dig around it and fertilize it. If it bears fruit next year, fine. But if not, you can cut it down."'" This parable of Jesus highlights the expectation of fruitfulness and the patience and mercy extended before judgment. The fig tree in the vineyard symbolizes Israel, and the expectation of spiritual fruitfulness from God's chosen people. 2. Song of Solomon 2:13 : "The fig tree ripens its figs; the blossoming vines spread their fragrance. Arise, come away, my beloved, and come." Here, the fig tree is mentioned alongside vines, illustrating the beauty and abundance of the land. The fig tree and vine together evoke a sense of peace and prosperity, often associated with the idyllic and harmonious relationship between God and His people. Cultural and Agricultural Context: In ancient Israel, vineyards were a symbol of wealth and blessing, and the inclusion of fig trees within them could serve multiple purposes. Fig trees provided shade for workers and additional produce, maximizing the use of the land. The practice of interplanting fig trees in vineyards reflects a holistic approach to agriculture, where different plants support and complement each other. Symbolism and Theological Implications: The fig tree, when planted in a vineyard, carries rich theological symbolism. It represents the expectation of fruitfulness and the blessings of God. The presence of the fig tree in the vineyard can be seen as a metaphor for the integration of different aspects of life under God's provision and care. The fig tree's fruitfulness is often used as a measure of spiritual health and vitality, as seen in the parable of the barren fig tree. In prophetic literature, the fig tree is sometimes used to symbolize Israel itself. The expectation of fruitfulness from the fig tree parallels God's expectation of righteousness and justice from His people. The fig tree's failure to produce fruit can signify spiritual barrenness and the need for repentance and renewal. Conclusion: The fig tree, when planted in vineyards, serves as a powerful biblical image of God's provision, the expectation of fruitfulness, and the integration of life under divine care. Its presence in the vineyard underscores the themes of judgment, mercy, and the call to spiritual vitality. Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 13:6He spoke also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Barren Fig-Tree; A Greater than Solomon Supposing Him to be the Gardener Of Antichrist, and his Ruin: and of the Slaying the Witnesses. New Teaching in Parables' - the Parables to the People by the Lake ... CHAP. II. 4-25 (2-23). Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon: Resources Why did Jesus curse the fig tree? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the Parable of the Fig Tree? | GotQuestions.org Why is there a curse associated with hanging on a tree? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics The Fig-Tree: (Barren) of Mere Professors of Religion The Fig-Tree: (Sitting Under One's Own) Prosperity and Peace The Fig-Tree: A Species of, Produced Vile and Worthless Fruit The Fig-Tree: Abounded in Canaan The Fig-Tree: Abounded in Egypt The Fig-Tree: Afforded a Thick Shade The Fig-Tree: Failure of, a Great Calamity The Fig-Tree: Fruit of (Bad) of Wicked Men The Fig-Tree: Fruit of (First Ripe) of the Fathers of the Jewish Church The Fig-Tree: Fruit of (Good) of Saints The Fig-Tree: Fruit of (Untimely and Dropping) the Wicked Ripe for Judgment The Fig-Tree: Fruit of Eaten Dried in Cakes The Fig-Tree: Fruit of Eaten Fresh from the Tree The Fig-Tree: Fruit of First Ripe Esteemed The Fig-Tree: Fruit of Gathered and Kept in Baskets The Fig-Tree: Fruit of of Good Works The Fig-Tree: Fruit of Sent As Presents The Fig-Tree: Fruit of Sold in the Markets The Fig-Tree: Fruit of Used in the Miraculous Healing of Hezekiah The Fig-Tree: Fruit of, Formed After Winter The Fig-Tree: Leaves of, Put Forth, a Sign of the Approach of Summer The Fig-Tree: Leaves of, Used by Adam for Covering The Fig-Tree: Not Found in Desert Places The Fig-Tree: Often Unfruitful The Fig-Tree: Produces a Rich Sweet Fruit The Fig-Tree: Propagated by the Jews The Fig-Tree: Reasonableness of Expecting Fruit Upon, when Full of Leaves The Fig-Tree: Required Cultivation The Fig-Tree: Sometimes Planted in Vineyards The Fig-Tree: The Jews Punished by Barking and Eating of, by Locusts The Fig-Tree: The Jews Punished by Enemies Devouring Fruit of The Fig-Tree: The Jews Punished by Failure of Fruit On The Fig-Tree: The Jews Punished by God's Breaking Down Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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