Parable of the Trees - Judges 9 (Part 2 of 4)
Updated: Jul 11
The very first parable in the Bible appears in Judges 9 and is known as the Parable of the Trees. Spoken from Mount Gerizim, this short yet profound story is a warning to the people of Shechem—and to all of us—about the danger of choosing destructive leadership.
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After the people crown Avi Melek as king, he immediately murders his seventy brothers to secure his position. One surviving brother escapes and delivers a parable to the crowd.
In the parable, the trees seek a king. They first approach the olive tree, the fig tree, and the vine—each of which refuses, valuing their fruit-bearing purpose. Finally, the trees turn to the "atad" tree, often translated as “bramble” or “thorn bush.”
The "atad" accepts, offering its one perceived benefit: “Come and take refuge in my shade” (Judges 9:15). But this offer is deceptive.
While the "atad" does provide shade—a comfort appealing to humans—it is harmful to other trees. With shallow roots that consume a disproportionate amount of water, the "atad" threatens the survival of neighboring fruit trees.
Though it produces a small fruit, it is not among the valued produce of the land. For a farmer, the "atad" must be removed if fruit trees are to flourish.
The message is clear: in our desire for comfort or quick solutions, we often elevate leaders who drain life rather than cultivate it. The parable challenges us to discern wisely—because the wrong choice may cost us the fruitfulness we were meant to bear.
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