### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tᵉʼên**, represented by `{{H8384}}`, is the term for **the fig (tree or fruit)**. It appears 39 times across 35 unique verses in the Bible, signifying its importance as both a staple food and a powerful symbol. Its meaning encompasses the physical tree as well as the fruit it produces.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8384}}` is used in several key contexts. Its first appearance is in Genesis, where Adam and Eve **sewed fig** leaves together for coverings [[Genesis 3:7]]. It is listed as one of the hallmark blessings of the promised land, described as a "land of... **fig trees**" [[Deuteronomy 8:8]]. The image of sitting under one's own **fig tree** serves as a profound symbol of national peace, security, and prosperity, notably during the reign of Solomon [[1 Kings 4:25]] and in prophecies of a future messianic age [[Micah 4:4]]. Conversely, the failure of the **fig tree** is a sign of devastation and divine judgment ([[Habakkuk 3:17]], [[Joel 1:12]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the agricultural and symbolic context of the fig tree:
* `{{H1612}}` **gephen** (a vine): This word is frequently paired with **tᵉʼên** to represent the agricultural abundance and peace of the land. The phrase "under his **vine** and under his **fig tree**" establishes a powerful motif of safety and prosperity ([[1 Kings 4:25]], [[Micah 4:4]]).
* `{{H1063}}` **bikkûwrâh** (the early fig): This term for a **firstripe (fruit)** is used figuratively to describe God's initial delight in the fathers of Israel, whom He "saw as the **firstripe** in the fig tree" before they turned to idolatry [[Hosea 9:10]].
* `{{H1690}}` **dᵉbêlâh** (cake of pressed figs): This refers to a processed form of the fruit. A **lump of figs** was used as a medicinal poultice to heal King Hezekiah's boil, demonstrating a practical use of the fruit [[Isaiah 38:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8384}}` is significant, often used by the prophets to illustrate the spiritual state of Israel and God's relationship with His people.
* **Symbol of Peace and Blessing:** The ideal state of Israel is one where every person can **sit** under his own **vine** and **fig tree**, with none to make them afraid, a direct promise from the Lord of hosts ([[Micah 4:4]], [[Zechariah 3:10]]).
* **Indicator of Judgment:** The withering or barrenness of the **fig tree** symbolizes national disaster and judgment for sin. Prophets like Jeremiah warned that because of disobedience, there would be "no **figs** on the fig tree" [[Jeremiah 8:13]], and Hosea declared God would "destroy her vines and her **fig trees**" as a punishment for unfaithfulness [[Hosea 2:12]].
* **Metaphor for the People of God:** In a vision, Jeremiah sees two baskets of figs. The **good figs** represent the captives of Judah whom God will acknowledge and restore, while the **evil figs** represent King Zedekiah and those who remain in Jerusalem destined for judgment [[Jeremiah 24:5-8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8384}}` is far more than a simple botanical term. It is woven into the fabric of scripture as a multifaceted symbol. It represents divine blessing, national prosperity, and peace when it flourishes, but it becomes a stark sign of judgment and spiritual decay when it fails. From the leaves used for covering in Genesis to the prophetic visions of good and evil fruit, the fig tree serves as a consistent and potent illustration of the relationship between God and His people.
TRV