Parable of the Budding Fig Tree

A fig tree.

The Parable of the Budding Fig Tree is a parable told by Jesus in the New Testament, found in Matthew Matthew 24:32–35, Mark Mark 13:28–31, and Luke Luke 21:29–33. This parable, about the Kingdom of God, involves a fig tree, as does the equally brief parable of the barren fig tree, with which it should not be confused.

Narrative

According to the Gospel of Luke:

He told them this parable: "Look at the fig tree and all the trees. When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near.

"I tell you the truth, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

— Luke 21:29-33, New International Version

Interpretation

Luke presents this parable as eschatological in nature: like the leaves of the fig tree, the signs spoken of in the Olivet discourse of 21:5-28 Luke 21:5–28 indicate the coming of the Kingdom of God.

See also

• Figs in the Bible