Judges 9:11

But the fig tree replied, 'Should I stop giving my sweetness and my good fruit, to hold sway over the trees?'

Study Bible

But the fig tree replied
The fig tree, in ancient Israel, was a symbol of prosperity and peace. Its mention here is significant, as it represents a voice of reason and contentment. The Hebrew word for fig tree, "תְּאֵנָה" (te'enah), is often associated with abundance and blessing. In the context of Judges 9, the fig tree's response is a metaphorical expression of wisdom, choosing to remain in its God-given role rather than seeking power or authority over others. This reflects a biblical principle of contentment and fulfilling one's purpose without succumbing to the temptations of ambition or pride.

Should I stop giving my sweetness
The phrase "giving my sweetness" refers to the natural and beneficial role of the fig tree. In Hebrew culture, sweetness is often associated with goodness and favor. The fig tree's rhetorical question highlights the importance of remaining true to one's calling and the inherent value in fulfilling one's God-given purpose. The sweetness of the fig tree can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual fruitfulness that believers are called to exhibit, as described in Galatians 5:22-23, where the fruit of the Spirit includes love, joy, and peace.

and my good fruit
The "good fruit" symbolizes the positive outcomes and contributions that result from living in accordance with God's will. In the Hebrew text, the word for "good" is "טוֹב" (tov), which conveys a sense of moral goodness and excellence. The fig tree's emphasis on its good fruit serves as a reminder of the biblical principle that true success and fulfillment come from producing fruit that aligns with God's purposes. This aligns with Jesus' teaching in John 15:5, where He states that those who abide in Him will bear much fruit.

to hold sway over the trees?
The phrase "to hold sway over the trees" suggests a position of authority or leadership. The fig tree's rhetorical question implies a rejection of the pursuit of power for its own sake. In the context of Judges 9, this is a critique of Abimelech's ambition to rule over the people of Shechem. The Hebrew word for "hold sway" is "נָעוּעַ" (na'ua), which can also mean to tremble or totter, suggesting the instability and potential downfall that can accompany the pursuit of power. This serves as a cautionary message about the dangers of seeking authority without divine calling or purpose.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Fig Tree
In this parable, the fig tree represents a character who is content with its role and purpose, providing sweetness and good fruit, and does not desire to rule over others.

2. Jotham
The speaker of the parable, Jotham is the youngest son of Gideon (Jerubbaal) who uses this account to warn the people of Shechem about the dangers of choosing Abimelech as their king.

3. Abimelech
The son of Gideon and a concubine from Shechem, Abimelech seeks to become king and is the central figure against whom Jotham's parable is directed.

4. Shechem
A city in ancient Israel where the events of Judges 9 unfold, including Abimelech's rise to power and Jotham's parable.

5. Parable of the Trees
A account told by Jotham to illustrate the folly of choosing a leader who is not fit to rule, using various trees to symbolize different types of leaders.

Teaching Points

Contentment in Purpose
The fig tree's response highlights the importance of being content with the role and purpose God has given us, rather than seeking power or status.

Value of Fruitfulness
The fig tree's emphasis on its sweetness and good fruit reminds us of the importance of bearing spiritual fruit in our lives, as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23.

Wisdom in Leadership
Jotham's parable warns against choosing leaders based on ambition rather than character and ability, a principle that applies to both spiritual and secular leadership.

God's Provision
The fig tree symbolizes God's provision and the blessings He bestows upon us, encouraging us to trust in His sustenance rather than seeking worldly power.

Discernment in Choices
The parable encourages discernment in the choices we make, particularly in whom we choose to follow or support as leaders.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fig tree's response in Judges 9:11 reflect the biblical principle of contentment with one's God-given role?

2. In what ways can we apply the lesson of the fig tree's fruitfulness to our own spiritual lives, as seen in John 15?

3. How does Jotham's parable in Judges 9 relate to the importance of choosing leaders with godly character, and what other biblical examples support this?

4. What does the fig tree symbolize in other parts of the Bible, and how do these symbols enhance our understanding of its role in this parable?

5. How can we discern when to pursue leadership roles and when to focus on bearing fruit in our current positions, according to biblical teachings?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 3
The fig tree is often associated with the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve used fig leaves to cover themselves, symbolizing the provision and sustenance that God provides.

Matthew 21
Jesus curses the barren fig tree, which can be seen as a metaphor for fruitlessness and the importance of fulfilling one's God-given purpose.

John 15
Jesus speaks about the vine and the branches, emphasizing the importance of bearing fruit in one's life, which connects to the fig tree's role in providing sweetness and good fruit.