Under the Fig Tree

In biblical imagery, the fig tree symbolizes prosperity, peace and leadership — prosperity because of the abundance of sweet juicy figs, peace because of the tree’s refreshing shade, and leadership in that the fig tree itself grows to be a large magnificent tree, often referred to be “the king of trees.”

In the Ezekiel 40:4 passage, “See with your eyes, hear with your ears, and set your heart on all that I show you for that’s why I brought you here. Then go tell Israel …,” the man of God invites the prophet to see, hear and focus on what God has to reveal in such a way that his word and life become the message. Under The Fig Tree Ministry seeks to provide an environment for such focus through studying the Bible in its literary, cultural, and geographic context. This is accomplished by Biblical tours to Egypt, Jordan and Israel.

First century talmidim (disciples) would follow their rabbi as he walked throughout the Holy land teaching with both word and action. The Bible describes learning from a rabbi as “sitting at his feet,” which was often done in the synagogue as well as in the Temple colonnades. Sitting at the rabbi’s feet was also done under the fig tree, not only because of the shade it provided but also because of the tree’s sweet fruit. Soon “under the fig tree” became an idiom for one who sits under the shade of a Rabbi’s teaching enjoying the “sweet” fruit of his instruction and wisdom.

Jewish sources speak of rabbis who pursued their studies by discussing and debating the meaning of scripture with their colleagues and students under the cool shade of fig trees. With this in mind, Under The Fig Tree Ministry endeavors to offer trip alumni, whose passion for the text has been “fanned into flame,” a place for follow-up guidance and mentoring by means of on-line studies and conferences. We are honored to provide a place of “shade” for those seeking to grow in obedience, where “sweet fruit” is shared and enjoyed as they develop into the leaders God envisions them to be.