In this lecture, His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains the symbolic meaning of Jesus cursing the fig tree (Mark 11:12–14). He clarifies that the act was not one of anger or vengeance but a spiritual lesson about hypocrisy and empty appearances in religious life.

Symbolic Interpretation:
The fig tree, full of leaves yet without fruit, represents formalistic religion—outward piety without inward faith. The abundant leaves symbolize religious appearances, while the absence of fruit symbolizes spiritual barrenness and lack of genuine works of faith and repentance.

Connection with the Old Testament:
The Pope connects this event to the story of Adam and Eve in Genesis, who covered their nakedness with fig leaves after sinning. God rejected that superficial covering and clothed them instead with garments of skin, taken from a sacrifice—signifying that true restoration comes only through redemption, not external forms.

Meaning of the Fig Leaf Symbol:
Throughout Scripture, fig leaves became a symbol of false appearance—a cover for spiritual emptiness. The cursed fig tree thus portrays a faith that looks alive outwardly but is fruitless within.

Spiritual Lesson:
Through this act, Christ teaches that:

• What matters is not the abundance of “leaves” — outward religion or show —

• But the presence of true fruit: love, faith, and repentance that spring from a living relationship with God.

Faith Message:
The cursing of the fig tree stands as a warning and a call to authentic, fruitful faith. God seeks fruit, not leaves — inner transformation, not mere external display. The story urges every believer to cultivate a faith that bears the fruit of righteousness and genuine holiness.

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