The Mystery of the Barren Fig Tree
The story of the Cursing of the Fig Tree as recorded in both Matthew and Mark, is both a historical and literal event, as well as a symbolic enacted parable-like episode of Jesus’ deep revelatory teaching.
Knowing the heart of the Loving Father, the Jesus who loves children, loves nature, provides for animals and cares for birds and lilies, it is somewhat out of character for Him to curse a tree that had no fruit when it was not the season for figs. (Mark 11:12)
In a very unconventional manner Jesus spoke to the tree, ‘May no fruit ever come from you again’, and at once the fig tree withered on the spot and died. (Matthew 21:19) The permanent inability to produce is described as a curse. This particular fig tree was cursed and swiftly died. (Mark’s account says it withered on the second day Mark 11: 20)
So what then is the significance of the cursing of the fig tree? Jesus was hungry and in His way was a large green leafy tree. He had just come through Jerusalem the day before as King, Messiah and Prophet in the Triumphant Entry into Jerusalem. It was the Passion week and all things were coming together rapidly before His departure. The biological nature of the fig tree is that leaves were indicative of fruits. The foliage was lush and green giving rise to expectation. The tree did not only fail to produce , but gave the impression of fruitfulness.
The Omniscient One (All knowing God) in the eyes of the disciples, checked on the fig tree expecting to find fruits among the lush green leaves, but there was nothing but leaves. Literally, the fig tree was a disappointment and misleading in its presentation. It had used up all its nutrients to produce leaves only.
Symbolically, Jesus comes to us with great expectations of finding fruits. We are often covered in fig leaves, looking the part but the reality is that on closer examination we may not be fruiting. As in the beginning of Adam and Eve a fig leaf will not give protection when Jesus comes checking.
Are there fruits among your beautiful leaves? Will Jesus find figs in your off season?
I am the vine, you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.. Anyone who does not abide in me is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire and burned (St. John 15: 5-6)