Throughout the Bible, the Fig Tree is a common metaphor for the nation of Israel. In 1 Kings 4:25, when the nation was experiencing the blessings of peace provided by God, that peace and safety is described as everyone sitting under their own fig tree.
“During Solomon’s lifetime Judah and Israel, from Dan to Beersheba, lived in safety, everyone under their own vine and under their own fig tree.” 1 Kings 4:25
The Fig Tree also symbolized the spiritual health of the nation. When Israel turned from God to worship false idols, the prophet Amos was sent to remind the northern kingdom that they will be judged through curses on the land in accordance with Deuteronomy 28.
“Many times, I struck your gardens and vineyards. I struck them with blight and mildew. Locusts devoured your fig and olive trees, Yet you have not returned to me,” declares the Lord” Amos 4:9.
Hope for the Future Messianic Kingdom: Though Israel sinned, God continued to hold out a promise of restoration. One day, an “Anointed King” would establish his reign in Israel and restore the Kingdom of God. The words of the prophets are a mixture of proclaiming the disobedience of Israel, divine judgement, and a promise of a restored future amid the current chaos. Habakkuk declares:
“Though the fig tree does not bud, And there are no grapes on the vines, Though the olive crop fails And the fields produce no food… Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior” Habakkuk 3:17-18
The prophet Micah describes the day of the LORD, “the last days” (Micah 4:1):
“Every man will sit under his own vine And under his own fig tree, And no one will make them afraid, For the LORD Almighty has spoken” Micah 4:4
‘In that day each of you will invite his neighbor To sit under his vine and fig tree,’ declares the Lord.
Jesus the Messiah
With the death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus, he was placed at the right hand of God and is reigning Lord over His kingdom (Rom. 1:1-6).
All are welcome to enter this kingdom of peace (Rom. 14:17).
Although the world seems to be getting more chaotic by the day - the peace of God is available to all humanity through faith that Jesus is the true King.
Everyone man, woman and child are able to enjoy the sweetness of the fruit from their own fig tree.
