Studying Under the Fig Tree

And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig tree withered away. Matthew 21:19

A fig tree is sweet smelling and provides shade and fruit. One Rabbinic tradition says: The best place to study the Law is under a fig tree. Fig trees are still planted near synagogues today. Jesus said to Nathaniel, “I saw you (while you were a child in school) under the fig tree (John 1:48).”

Figs appear at the same time as the leaves. A “hypocritical fig tree” would have the leaves of religion, but no fruits of faith – See Mathew 21:19.

(Lash, Neil & Jamie., “Jewels From the Journey,” Jewish Jewels, Ft. Lauderdale, FL., pg 4)