Judges 9:15Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Even the most uneducated individual would not consider the writings of Aesop, created for similar reasons, as mere fabrications. Likewise, the Holy Scriptures contain comparable accounts, such as in the Book of Judges, where trees seek a king to anoint over them, presenting their appeals to the oak, fig tree, vine, and thorns. These narratives, while fictional, are crafted to help us comprehend the underlying truths they represent, allowing us to understand the authentic rather than the misleading essence of the matter.

They approach the tree, which symbolizes their desolation—a thorny tree, enmeshed with thorns, that ensnares all who come near, inflicting injuries and draining the lifeblood of the afflicted. This tree also emits flames, consuming those trees that fall under its dominion. We associate the thorns with the adversary, interpreting their nature based on the characteristics of this plant. According to the insights of the prophet Haggai, the olive tree, fig tree, and vineyard do not dominate the forests' trees, which are reserved for burning. Instead, it is the thorn-laden tree that rules over them, akin to the heretic residing in Babylon, perpetually found in the ravines. This tree not only bears thorns but also harbors fire that injures and scorches everything it encounters. As a consequence, the fire emerged and devastated the trees of the forest. Commentary on the prophet Habakkuk.

It is clear that the reference is not made to trees growing from the soil. Trees, which lack souls and are firmly anchored in the ground, cannot gather independently to choose a ruler. This narrative, however, pertains to souls who, prior to the Incarnation of Christ, were overwhelmed by sin and implored God to hear their cries and to reign over them with grace and gentleness. The Scripture depicts this idea through the imagery of an olive tree, symbolizing the benefits of oil, which is nourishing for the body, alleviates pain and illness, and provides light. Just as the illumination in lamps is enhanced by the oil that fills them, so too does every act of divine compassion rescue from death and sin, aiding humanity and nurturing the light within the heart.

It is typical of those who are indifferent, lacking value in their own lives, to meddle in the affairs of others. This observation is clear from experience; one who has embraced stillness and begun to engage in deeper contemplation will resist allowing their thoughts to be ensnared by worldly concerns. Instead, they maintain focus on the divine vision, even amidst potential distractions. This principle is further illustrated by a well-known parable. In this tale, the fig tree, noted for its sweetness, and the olive tree, praised for its richness, both declined to take leadership. Consequently, the thornbush, a useless and prickly plant with no abundance of its own or among its followers, assumed control, representing unfruitful endeavors. The parable distinguishes these trees as not belonging to cultivated gardens but to unproductive forests.

Through the parable of the trees, which foolishly sought the olive tree, the fig tree, and the vine as their ruler, ultimately selecting the thorn instead, he illustrated the people's ingratitude towards their father and the arrogance of Abimelech.