Joel 1:12

The vine is dried up, and the fig tree languisheth; the pomegranate tree, the palm tree also, and the apple tree, [even] all the trees of the field, are withered: because joy is withered away from the sons of men.

The vine {H1612} is dried up {H3001}, and the fig tree {H8384} languisheth {H535}; the pomegranate {H7416} tree, the palm tree {H8558} also, and the apple tree {H8598}, even all the trees {H6086} of the field {H7704}, are withered {H3001}: because joy {H8342} is withered away {H3001} from the sons {H1121} of men {H120}.

The vines have withered, the fig trees wilted, also the pomegranate, date-palm and apple tree - all the trees in the fields have withered, and the people's joy has withered away.

The grapevine is dried up, and the fig tree is withered; the pomegranate, palm, and apple— all the trees of the orchard—are withered. Surely the joy of mankind has dried up.

The vine is withered, and the fig-tree languisheth; the pomegranate-tree, the palm-tree also, and the apple-tree, even all the trees of the field are withered: for joy is withered away from the sons of men.

Commentary

Joel 1:12 describes a scene of profound agricultural devastation and its direct spiritual consequence: the loss of joy. This verse is part of a lament in Joel Chapter 1, which details the catastrophic effects of a severe locust plague and subsequent drought upon the land of Judah.

Context

The prophet Joel opens his book with a vivid description of an unprecedented ecological disaster. The land, which was the very source of life and prosperity for ancient Israel, is laid waste. Joel 1:12 focuses on the destruction of the vital fruit-bearing trees: the vine (grapes for wine), the fig tree, pomegranate, palm, and apple tree. These were not merely sources of food but also symbols of blessing, abundance, and celebration in biblical culture. The blight on these trees signifies a complete collapse of agricultural life and, by extension, the economic and social well-being of the people. This natural calamity is presented as a manifestation of divine judgment, prompting a call for repentance and mourning, as seen in Joel 1:13-14.

Key Themes

  • Widespread Desolation: The verse emphasizes the totality of the destruction, stating "all the trees of the field, are withered." This signifies a complete loss of sustenance and hope, leaving the people with nothing to harvest or celebrate.
  • Loss of Joy: The most poignant part of the verse is the direct link between the withered trees and the "withered away" joy of the sons of men. In biblical times, harvests were occasions for great celebration, feasting, and thanksgiving to God. Without the fruit, there was no harvest, and thus no reason for the customary rejoicing. This highlights how material prosperity, when viewed as a blessing from God, contributes to human gladness, and its absence brings deep sorrow.
  • Consequences of Sin/Judgment: While not explicitly stated in this single verse, the broader context of Joel's prophecy suggests that such devastation is a consequence of the people's spiritual condition and a call to return to God. The Lord uses natural disasters to call His people to repentance and a renewed relationship.
  • Dependence on God's Provision: The verse implicitly underscores humanity's absolute dependence on God's provision for life and well-being. When His blessings are withdrawn, the impact is severe and far-reaching.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "withered" (yabesh) appears multiple times in this chapter, emphasizing the dryness and decay. The word for "joy" (simchah) denotes a deep gladness or rejoicing, often associated with religious festivals and harvest celebrations. Its disappearance indicates a profound spiritual and emotional void, far beyond mere disappointment. The repetition of "withered" for both the plants and joy creates a powerful parallel, showing the direct correlation between the physical state of the land and the emotional state of the people.

Practical Application

Joel 1:12 serves as a timeless reminder that true joy is often intricately linked to God's blessings and our relationship with Him. When we experience seasons of spiritual or material barrenness, it can lead to a significant loss of joy. This verse encourages us to:

  • Reflect on the Source of Joy: It prompts us to consider where our joy truly comes from. Is it solely dependent on external circumstances, or is it rooted in something deeper, like the fruit of the Spirit which includes joy?
  • Examine Our Spiritual State: Like ancient Israel, periods of hardship can be a divine call to examine our hearts and return to God, seeking His face and His provision.
  • Find Joy in All Circumstances: While the loss of material blessings can diminish natural joy, believers are called to cultivate a joy that transcends circumstances, understanding that God remains sovereign even in desolation. This spiritual joy is not dependent on the fruit of the field but on the presence of God Himself, as expressed in Habakkuk 3:17-18.
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Cross-References

  • Isaiah 16:10 (5 votes)

    And gladness is taken away, and joy out of the plentiful field; and in the vineyards there shall be no singing, neither shall there be shouting: the treaders shall tread out no wine in [their] presses; I have made [their vintage] shouting to cease.

  • Isaiah 24:11 (5 votes)

    [There is] a crying for wine in the streets; all joy is darkened, the mirth of the land is gone.

  • Joel 1:16 (4 votes)

    Is not the meat cut off before our eyes, [yea], joy and gladness from the house of our God?

  • Song Of Solomon 2:3 (4 votes)

    ¶ As the apple tree among the trees of the wood, so [is] my beloved among the sons. I sat down under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit [was] sweet to my taste.

  • Joel 1:10 (4 votes)

    The field is wasted, the land mourneth; for the corn is wasted: the new wine is dried up, the oil languisheth.

  • Hosea 9:1 (4 votes)

    ¶ Rejoice not, O Israel, for joy, as [other] people: for thou hast gone a whoring from thy God, thou hast loved a reward upon every cornfloor.

  • Hosea 9:2 (4 votes)

    The floor and the winepress shall not feed them, and the new wine shall fail in her.