What does Mark 11:20 mean?

Explanation

Mark 11:20 refers to an event where Jesus and his disciples witness the withering of a fig tree that Jesus had cursed the previous day.

The incident occurs after Jesus enters Jerusalem and cleanses the Temple.

On the previous day, Jesus sought fruit on the fig tree, but finding none (as it was not the season for figs), he said to it, "May no one ever eat fruit from you again." The next morning, they observe that the tree has withered from the roots.

The literal meaning of the text is straightforward: the fig tree which Jesus had cursed is now dead and dried up.

However, the deeper significance of the passage is often interpreted as symbolic.

Some interpretations suggest it symbolizes the spiritual barrenness of Israel, particularly the leadership in Jerusalem, and the coming judgment. Others see it as an illustration of the power of faith and the importance of bearing spiritual fruit.

Historical Context

The Gospel of Mark is considered to be one of the synoptic Gospels, and it was likely written slightly before or after the destruction of the Second Temple (around 70 AD).

The fig tree event would have occurred during the final week of Jesus' life, traditionally known as Passion Week.

In the Jewish context, the fig tree often symbolizes Israel, and the expectation was that the people of Israel would produce spiritual fruit. The cursing of the fig tree could be seen in this light, a commentary on the failure to bear fruit and an admonition to the people.

Theological Insights

Theologically, different Christian denominations and theologians have offered various insights about this passage:

• Traditional Protestant interpretation sees this as a lesson in faith and prayer.

Jesus uses the withered tree to teach about the importance of having faith in God.

• Catholic interpretation may focus on the fig tree representing the Temple, with its traditions and legalism, showing that a new covenant in Jesus is replacing the old, barren one.

• Orthodox churches may emphasize the theme of humility and repentance as prerequisites for producing spiritual fruit, contrasting the lifeless fig tree with a faithful believer.

Practical Applications

In a practical sense, the verse encourages believers to:

• Reflect on their own spiritual fruitfulness and commit to living in a way that reflects their faith.

• Understand the consequences of spiritual barrenness, implying that just as the fig tree withered, there can be spiritual death without faith and action.

• Trust in the power of prayer and have faith that, like the withered fig tree showed the disciples, what they ask for in faith will be granted by God.

Cross-References

• Matthew 21:19-21: A parallel account of the cursing of the fig tree.
• Luke 13:6-9: The parable of the barren fig tree.
• John 15:1-8: Jesus speaks of Himself as the true vine and His followers as the branches, expected to bear fruit.
• Jeremiah 8:13: The prophet Jeremiah uses the symbol of a fruitless fig tree to describe Israel.

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text of this verse are:

• "Dried up" (ἐξηράνθη - exēranthē): This is aorist passive indicative, denoting a completed action, indicating that the tree had already withered.

• "From the roots" (ἐκ ριζῶν - ek rizōn): Signifies that the tree is dead not just on the surface, but from its very source of nourishment and life.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The fig tree is a significant cultural symbol in ancient Israel and is found throughout the Old Testament as a sign of peace and prosperity.

It is contrasted here where it becomes a symbol of judgment.

In other cultures, such as in Greek and Roman mythology, trees could also be endowed with symbolism. The fig tree, however, does not hold the same level of symbolic potency as it does in the Judaic context.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically, a fig tree would not normally wither overnight from the roots as described in the verse.

It is generally understood by scientific standards that this event is a miracle, meaning it cannot be explained by natural causes alone.

Commentaries

Commentators offer varying insights into Mark 11:20:

• William Barclay notes that this might be a parable acted out rather than a literal event, intended to teach the disciples an unforgettable lesson.

• John Calvin comments on the passage as a demonstration of God's immense power and warning not to abuse God’s patience.

• Craig S. Keener, in his commentary, suggests that Mark may want readers to understand Jesus' action against the fig tree as symbolic of judgment against the Temple that does not bear the fruit of true piety.