### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sykē**, represented by `{{G4808}}`, refers to a **fig-tree**. It appears **16 times** across **15 unique verses** in the Bible. This word is used to describe the tree itself, often in parables and as a symbol of natural processes and spiritual lessons.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4808}}` is central to several important events and teachings. It is featured prominently in a parable where a certain man sought **fruit** `{{G2590}}` on a **fig tree** planted in his vineyard but found none [[Luke 13:6]]. A significant event involves Jesus cursing a barren **fig tree** that had only **leaves** `{{G5444}}`, causing it to wither away ([[Matthew 21:19]], [[Mark 11:21]]). This miracle becomes a lesson on faith [[Matthew 21:21]]. The **fig tree** is also used as a natural sign; its tender branch and new leaves signal that **summer** `{{G2330}}` is **nigh** `{{G1451}}` ([[Matthew 24:32]], [[Mark 13:28]]). Jesus also refers to seeing **Nathanael** `{{G3482}}` under a **fig tree** `{{G4808}}` [[John 1:48]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context to the meaning of `{{G4808}}`:
* `{{G2590}}` **karpós** (fruit): The expectation of **fruit** is a recurring theme in passages featuring the **fig tree** `{{G4808}}`. Its absence leads to judgment, as seen when the owner seeks it for three **years** `{{G2094}}` without finding any [[Luke 13:7]].
* `{{G5444}}` **phýllon** (leaf): **Leaves** often appear in contrast to fruit. Jesus finds nothing but **leaves** `{{G5444}}` on the tree he curses [[Matthew 21:19]]. However, leaves are also a sign of life and the changing of seasons [[Matthew 24:32]].
* `{{G3583}}` **xēraínō** (to desiccate; by implication, to shrivel, to mature): This word describes the consequence for the barren **fig tree** `{{G4808}}` after Jesus curses it, causing it to **wither away** [[Mark 11:21]].
* `{{G1186}}` **déndron** (a tree): This is a general term for **tree**, and `{{G4808}}` is used alongside it to represent all trees in a parable [[Luke 21:29]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4808}}` is significant, often used to illustrate spiritual principles.
* **Spiritual Fruitfulness:** The **fig tree** `{{G4808}}` serves as a potent symbol for the expectation of spiritual fruit. In a parable, a tree that fails to produce **fruit** `{{G2590}}` for three years is threatened with being cut down for cumbering the **ground** `{{G1093}}` [[Luke 13:7]].
* **Judgment on Barrenness:** Jesus’s act of cursing the **fig tree** `{{G4808}}` that had only **leaves** `{{G5444}}` and no fruit serves as a stark illustration of judgment against outward appearance without genuine fruitfulness [[Matthew 21:19]]. The disciples **marvelled** `{{G2296}}` at how quickly it withered [[Matthew 21:20]].
* **Prophetic Sign:** Jesus uses the **fig tree** `{{G4808}}` in a **parable** `{{G3850}}` to teach his disciples about recognizing the signs of the times. Just as a tender **branch** `{{G2798}}` putting forth leaves signals that **summer** `{{G2330}}` is **nigh** `{{G1451}}`, so too will there be indicators of future events [[Matthew 24:32]].
* **Natural and Divine Order:** The **fig tree** `{{G4808}}` is used to explain what is natural and expected. A **fig tree** `{{G4808}}` cannot bear **olive berries** `{{G1636}}`, nor can a **vine** `{{G288}}` bear **figs** `{{G4810}}`, illustrating a principle of consistency in nature and spirit [[James 3:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4808}}` moves beyond its simple definition as a **fig tree** to become a key teaching tool in the New Testament. Whether in parables about fruitfulness [[Luke 13:6]], as a real-world object lesson on faith and judgment [[Matthew 21:19]], or as a prophetic sign of the seasons [[Matthew 24:32]], the **fig tree** consistently points to the spiritual reality of bearing fruit. It serves as a powerful, tangible symbol for understanding divine expectation, the consequences of barrenness, and the importance of recognizing God's timing.
TRV