Tree

The Bible uses the image of a tree in two significant ways:

1/. It likens those who diligently try to obey God’s will, live in vital relationship with Him, align their thoughts to His, and allow their lifestyle to be governed by the Scriptures to healthy fruit bearing trees, situated near a constant source of life-giving water (Ps 1:1-3). Such a person is productive and accomplishes their God-given calling. While they are not immune to failure and difficulty or guaranteed health and wealth, they prosper by developing vital Godly character and spirituality.

2/. “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree” (Deut 21:23; Gal 3:13). This refers to any person unfortunate enough to either have their body hung from a tree or wooden structure, or else, as in the case of Jesus, to be crucified on a wooden cross – a slow and painful execution. He ‘became a curse for us’, voluntarily taking our place of death so that we, by accepting His gift of salvation, might experience life.

See also: cross, crucifixion.