The mention of apples in the Bible has intrigued readers for centuries. Often associated with symbolism, wisdom, and even temptation, apples hold a unique place in biblical narratives. In this blog post, we’ll take a delectable journey through the biblical references to apples and uncover the lessons they offer.
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Apples in the Song of Solomon
One of the most famous references to apples in the Bible can be found in the Song of Solomon. In Song of Solomon 2:3 (NIV), it is written: “As an apple tree among the trees of the forest, so is my beloved among the young men. With great delight I sat in his shadow, and his fruit was sweet to my taste.”
This verse is part of a beautiful love poem that describes the beloved’s admiration for her partner. The apple tree is used as a metaphor for the beloved, symbolizing qualities like sweetness, refreshment, and desirability.
Apples of Gold in Settings of Silver:
Proverbs 25:11 (NIV) states, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.” This verse, found in the Book of Proverbs, paints a vivid picture of the value of wise and timely words. Just as apples of gold are precious and beautiful, well-chosen words can be a source of wisdom, grace, and beauty in our interactions.
The Forbidden Fruit in the Garden of Eden
When people think of apples in the Bible, they often associate them with the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden. While the Bible does not explicitly mention that the fruit Adam and Eve ate was an apple, this association has persisted in art and culture. The story of Adam and Eve serves as a cautionary tale about temptation, disobedience, and the consequences of sin.
The Message of Apples:
The references to apples in the Bible convey messages of desire, wisdom, beauty, and temptation. They remind us of the power of words and the importance of choosing them wisely. Apples are used as metaphors to illustrate the qualities we should seek in our relationships and the dangers of succumbing to temptation.
Lessons from Apples:
- The Sweetness of Love: The Song of Solomon’s apple metaphor reflects the sweetness and desirability of love. It encourages us to cherish and delight in the relationships that bring joy and fulfillment.
- The Value of Words: Proverbs teaches us the value of words and the impact they can have on our lives and the lives of others. Just as apples of gold are precious, well-spoken words are invaluable.
- The Consequences of Temptation: The story of the forbidden fruit serves as a reminder of the consequences of yielding to temptation. It urges us to exercise self-control and make wise choices.
Deuteronomy 32:10
He found him in a desert land, in the waste howling wilderness. He surrounded him. He cared for him. He kept him as the apple of his eye.
Joel 1:12
The vine has dried up, and the fig tree withered; the pomegranate tree, the palm tree also, and the apple tree, even all of the trees of the field are withered; for joy has withered away from the sons of men.
Lamentations 2:18
Their heart cried to the Lord: wall of the daughter of Zion, let tears run down like a river day and night; Give yourself no respite; don’t let the apple of your eye cease.
Proverbs 7:2
Keep my commandments and live! Guard my teaching as the apple of your eye.
Proverbs 25:11
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.
Psalms 17:8
Keep me as the apple of your eye. Hide me under the shadow of your wings,
Song_of_Solomon 2:3
As the apple tree among the trees of the wood, so is my beloved among the sons. I sat down under his shadow with great delight, his fruit was sweet to my taste.
Song_of_Solomon 2:5
Strengthen me with raisins, refresh me with apples; For I am faint with love.
Song_of_Solomon 7:8
I said, “I will climb up into the palm tree. I will take hold of its fruit.” Let your breasts be like clusters of the vine, the smell of your breath like apples, Beloved
Song_of_Solomon 8:5
Who is this who comes up from the wilderness, leaning on her beloved? Under the apple tree I aroused you. There your mother conceived you. There she was in labor and bore you.
Zechariah 2:8
For thus says the LORD of Armies: ‘For honor he has sent me to the nations which plundered you; for he who touches you touches the apple of his eye.
Zechariah 6:3
in the third chariot white horses; and in the fourth chariot dappled horses, all of them powerful.
Zechariah 6:6
The one with the black horses goes out toward the north country; and the white went out after them; and the dappled went forth toward the south country.”
Apples in the Bible: A Delectable Journey Through Symbolism and Wisdom
Christian Literature
Most of the teaching of Jesus are recorded in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The Complete Sayings of Jesus presents every word spoken by Jesus in one place and provides an index to assist in finding specific ocassions, places and/or events. It is a must read aid for serious Bible study.
He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, saith the Lord. These are the words of Christ; and they direct us to imitate his life and character. The Imitation of Christ is guide to following the example of Jesus Christ. Let it be our most earnest study to dwell upon the life and example of Jesus.
The Apocrypha books are 14 books that were included between the old and new testaments in the original King James Version of the bible and many others. Church leaders agreed that these books were valuable for instruction in life and manners, but did not all agree that they should be considered cannon.
The Childrens Bible provides bible lessons from the Old and New testaments. There are 216 stories written in plain english. The stories are easy to read and understand but they are not just for childern. It is a pleasure to read and enjoy these important stories.
God is Love
Let us love one another, for love comes from God and every one who loves is a child of God and knows God. He who loves not man does not know God, for God is love. God showed his love for us, for he sent his only Son into the world that through him we might have life. Love the stranger.
In Mark 12:30 Jesus said; And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this [is] the first commandment.
And the second Mark 12:31 [is] like, [namely] this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.
Conclusion
Apples in the Bible, whether in the form of metaphors, symbols, or stories, offer a rich tapestry of lessons and insights. They remind us of the significance of love, the power of words, and the perils of temptation. Just as a well-chosen apple is a delightful treat, so too are the wisdom and truths found in these biblical references to apples.
