The Significance of the Olive Tree

The secret of the olive tree lies in two things: its fruit and its roots. The fruit has many applications and benefits for humankind. The olive is a unique fruit in that it needs to be cured over time until it loses its extreme bitterness. This process is not unlike the process of purifying one’s heart. Throughout history, the use of olive oil to nourish bodies and light cities has been well documented. The deep roots of the olive tree are so extensive that they can withstand drought and produce fruit for hundreds of years.

The olive tree has always been considered blessed by the three monotheistic faiths of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam and there are numerous references to the olive tree in their sacred texts.

The Prophet Noah, peace be upon him, is said to have been given the branch of an olive tree from a dove as a sign of hope that land was near after the flood. In the Qur’an, Allah (God) says:

… the likeness of His light is as a niche wherein is a lamp; the lamp is encased in a glass. The glass is like a brilliant star. It is lit from a blessed tree, an olive tree that is neither of the East nor the West. It is as if its oil would give light even if fire had not touched it. Light upon light. And Allah guides to His light whom He pleases.

(Q 24, v 35-36).