Biblical Food and Herbs Series Part 4: Figs

And Isaiah said, Take a lump of figs. And they took and laid it on the boil, and he recovered. - 2 Kings 20:7

Figs have a wide range of applications for overall health. They are mainly known for aiding in digestion and easing constipation,  as well as being used to lower blood cholesterol, strengthen the immune system, and build strong bones with their high content of calcium.

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Yet the power really lies in the fig leaves. They have been used for centuries in teas and exterior herbal rubs (as in the verse above) and have clinically-tried anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-diabetic properties. Besides the calcium, other key nutrients are magnesium, potassium, fiber, various B vitamins, vitamin C and vitamin E. They are eaten dried or fresh with fresh being the most potent and nutrient rich...when you can get them. Unlike most fruit, fresh figs generally stay good for only a few days after being picked.

Figs, along with grapes and olives, are among the most referenced foods in the scriptures.The depth of prophetic symbolism concerning figs is too much to try to summarize for this series and a separate, more complete writing is to come on this. Yet, a few notable references are:  

*In Genesis 3:7 we are told that Adam and Eve sewed apron-like girdles from fig leaves to cover themselves when they “knew that they were naked.”

*Our key verse, at top, along with Isaiah 38:2 show the medicinal properties concerning King Hezekiah’s illness.

*The flourishing fig trees generally represented God’s presence, provision, peace or prosperity toward His people, Israel. Conversely, the fig tree crop failing or allowed to be ravaged by invaders was a sign of God’s judgment or displeasure with them.  As the obedience to God went, it was seen in the flourishing of the fig tree and ultimately the state of the nation(various verses).  Although obedience to God is still vital, we should be extremely thankful for a new covenant by which we live unto Him.

*Lastly, and probably most notable is the Messiah’s cursing of the fig tree in Mark 11:12-14 and 20-21. Although we will discuss this deeper in a separate article, I leave this note that Yahshua (Jesus) was not just arbitrarily cursing trees, nor was He merely irritated with not seeing fruit to help His present hunger. Yahshua did nothing of Himself. All that He did fulfilled scripture and was led by the Father (John 5:19).

Figs hold a special place in the scriptures and every taste of their delectable sweetness, should remind us of God’s loving, caring nature and His eternal covenant promises. Enjoy.

Illustrated Dictionary of Bible Life and Times, Readers Digest
Prescription for Dietary Wellness, Phyllis A. Balch
doctorshealthpress.com