In Scripture, apples are often used metaphorically to symbolize beauty, love, wisdom, or knowledge, and are mentioned in various contexts, sometimes representing the fruit of God’s blessing or the temptation of sin. While the apple is not always directly referenced as a specific fruit in biblical times, it holds significant symbolic meaning in both the Old and New Testaments. Below are 30 Bible verses that mention apples, each accompanied by a brief commentary on their significance.
Song of Solomon 2:3
“As an apple tree among the trees of the wood, so is my beloved among the sons. I sat down under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit was sweet to my taste.”
In this verse, the apple tree is used as a symbol of the beloved’s beauty and desirability. Just as an apple tree stands out among other trees, so does the lover in the eyes of the speaker. This imagery conveys feelings of affection and attraction, and the sweetness of the fruit symbolizes the pleasure and joy found in the relationship. It teaches the idea of love as something precious, delightful, and nourishing.
Song of Solomon 8:5
“Who is this coming up from the wilderness, leaning on her beloved? I raised you up under the apple tree; there your mother conceived you, there she who was in labor gave you birth.”
The apple tree is used again to symbolize a place of deep affection and union. The imagery evokes a tender, intimate relationship, referring to the speaker’s beloved. The apple tree represents a moment of origin, beauty, and love. It suggests that the relationship began in a sacred or special place, where deep bonds were formed. This verse teaches the significance of love that nurtures and sustains life, symbolizing both physical birth and spiritual renewal.
Proverbs 25:11
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”
This proverb uses apples as a metaphor for well-spoken words. Just as apples of gold in silver settings are precious and valuable, so are words spoken at the right time with wisdom and grace. It teaches the power of words to bring beauty and value to relationships and situations. The imagery encourages careful thought and thoughtful speech, showing that words can be as valuable and rare as gold and silver when used rightly.
Genesis 3:6
“When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.”
While this verse does not directly mention apples, it is often associated with the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden, which is commonly depicted as an apple. This moment marks the fall of humanity, where the desire for knowledge led to disobedience. The fruit represents temptation and the consequences of turning away from God’s command. The verse teaches the dangers of yielding to temptation, showing that even things that appear good can lead to dire consequences.
Deuteronomy 8:8
“A land with wheat and barley, vines and fig trees, pomegranates, olive oil and honey; a land where bread will not be scarce and you will lack nothing; a land where the rocks are iron and you can dig copper out of the hills.”
Although apples are not explicitly mentioned, this verse describes the abundance of the promised land, which included various fruits. Apples can be seen symbolically in the context of fruitfulness and abundance. This verse emphasizes God’s provision, showing that the land He promised to the Israelites would be rich and fertile, providing everything they needed. It teaches that God blesses His people with abundance, offering all they need for nourishment and spiritual sustenance.
Psalm 17:8
“Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.”
The phrase “apple of your eye” refers to something precious, valued, and cherished. This metaphor expresses the psalmist’s desire for God’s protection and favor. Just as the eye is a sensitive and protected part of the body, so the psalmist seeks to be under God’s careful watch and care. It teaches that we are to seek God’s protection, knowing that He values and cherishes us as His own, offering His care and guidance through all of life’s challenges.
Song of Solomon 2:5
“Strengthen me with raisins, refresh me with apples, for I am faint with love.”
In this verse, apples are used as a symbol of refreshment and vitality, especially in moments of emotional or spiritual longing. The speaker requests apples to revive and strengthen them, symbolizing how love can rejuvenate the heart. It teaches that love, both human and divine, has the power to revive the weary soul. The fruit metaphorically represents nourishment and the restoration of energy, highlighting the vitalizing nature of love and connection.
Hosea 14:7
“People will dwell again in his shade; they will flourish like the grain, they will blossom like the vine; Israel’s fame will be like the wine of Lebanon.”
This verse speaks to the restoration of Israel, using images of flourishing and abundance. While apples are not directly mentioned, the imagery of fruitful trees and vines can be associated with the blessings of the land, symbolizing God’s restoration and favor. It teaches that God’s provision allows His people to thrive, grow, and flourish. Just as fruit trees bear fruit when nurtured, God’s people, under His care, will bloom and prosper, reflecting His glory.
Proverbs 7:2
“Keep my commands and you will live; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye.”
Here, “the apple of your eye” is used again, but this time in reference to the importance of God’s commandments. The verse teaches that God’s instructions should be cherished and guarded as something precious, much like the apple of one’s eye. It underscores the value of God’s teachings in our lives, emphasizing that they should be central and protected. The metaphor of the apple of the eye teaches us to prioritize and hold dear the wisdom and guidance found in God’s word.
Exodus 33:23
“Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen.”
While not about apples, this verse reflects the direct presence of God. The apple metaphor in other verses, especially related to protection, highlights the ways God shields His people. Here, Moses asks to see God’s glory, but God’s response demonstrates His mercy in protecting Moses from being overwhelmed by His full glory. It teaches that God’s presence is often veiled for our protection, just as we are shielded under His wings, and His ultimate plans unfold with care.
Proverbs 25:11
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”
This verse compares well-chosen words to “apples of gold in settings of silver,” symbolizing their beauty, value, and effectiveness. Just as gold and silver are precious metals, so are words that are spoken with wisdom and care. The metaphor of apples here emphasizes that words, when properly spoken, bring healing and wisdom, much like the nourishment found in good fruit. It teaches us that our speech has the power to impact others positively, making it both a gift and a responsibility.
Deuteronomy 32:10
“In a desert land he found him, in a barren and howling waste. He shielded him and cared for him; he guarded him as the apple of his eye.”
This verse refers to God’s protection of Israel, particularly during times of hardship. The phrase “apple of His eye” symbolizes how deeply God cares for His people. Just as the eye is one of the most protected parts of the body, so is Israel under God’s tender care. This teaches that God’s love and protection are unwavering, and He cares for His people with great devotion, watching over them even in the most difficult and desolate circumstances.
Song of Solomon 8:5
“Who is this coming up from the wilderness, leaning on her beloved? I raised you up under the apple tree; there your mother conceived you, there she who was in labor gave you birth.”
In this passage, the apple tree is used as a symbol of origin, affection, and intimacy. The imagery of raising someone under the apple tree reflects the deep bond and nurturing relationship between the lover and the beloved. It speaks to the origins of love and the sacredness of birth and creation. The apple tree, in this context, represents both the beauty of life and the foundation of relationship and love, teaching that our roots, both physical and emotional, shape who we are.
Jeremiah 24:3
“What do you see, Jeremiah?” I asked. “Figs,” I answered. “The good ones are very good, but the bad ones are so bad that they cannot be eaten.”
While this verse refers to figs rather than apples, the imagery of fruitful versus bad fruit can be associated with the symbolism of apples in the Bible. Just as apples can represent good fruit, figs here symbolize the outcome of one’s actions, whether good or bad. The metaphor teaches that our lives produce fruit—whether good or bad—based on our choices, and we are accountable for the quality of the fruit we bear.
Matthew 7:17
“Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.”
Jesus teaches about the importance of bearing good fruit, just as an apple tree bears fruit according to its nature. This passage connects the symbolism of fruit to the character of the tree—good trees produce good fruit, just as righteous living produces good outcomes. It teaches that our actions and choices reflect our inner character, and we must be mindful of the fruit we bear, ensuring it is pleasing to God.
Zechariah 4:3
“And there are two olive trees by it, one on the right of the bowl and the other on its left.”
Though this verse mentions olive trees, it continues the biblical theme of trees and fruit, which can be symbolically related to apples. Olive trees, like apple trees, represent the blessings and provisions of God. They are often used in Scripture to symbolize prosperity, peace, and God’s provision. This verse emphasizes the importance of spiritual nourishment and divine provision, teaching that just as fruit trees provide sustenance, God provides what is needed for His people to thrive.
Song of Solomon 2:3
“As an apple tree among the trees of the wood, so is my beloved among the sons. I sat down under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit was sweet to my taste.”
In this verse, the apple tree represents the beloved, standing out among others in beauty and desirability. The speaker finds joy and satisfaction under the beloved’s “shadow,” indicating protection and comfort. The sweetness of the fruit symbolizes the richness of the relationship. This verse teaches that love, like the apple, is a gift from God that provides comfort, joy, and fulfillment, offering a deep, nourishing connection that sustains both body and soul.
Exodus 3:2
“There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up.”
While this verse does not directly mention apples, it symbolizes divine revelation and the awe-inspiring nature of God’s presence, which can also be linked to the idea of fruitfulness. The burning bush represents God’s power and presence, much like how the apple tree can represent both beauty and God’s divine purpose in life. It teaches us that God’s presence and guidance can transform and sustain us, like how the fruit of a tree nourishes the body and spirit.
Psalm 119:103
“How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!”
In this verse, the sweetness of God’s words is compared to honey, symbolizing the delight and nourishment we find in God’s teachings. While apples are not mentioned, the imagery of sweetness reflects the same principle. This teaches that God’s wisdom and instructions are life-giving, much like the sweetness of fruit. Just as an apple is pleasing to the senses, God’s Word brings joy, nourishment, and understanding to our hearts, feeding our spirits with truth and guidance.
Song of Solomon 8:5
“Who is this coming up from the wilderness, leaning on her beloved? I raised you up under the apple tree; there your mother conceived you, there she who was in labor gave you birth.”
This verse highlights the apple tree as a symbol of intimacy, birth, and nurturing. The speaker recalls the intimate moment under the apple tree, a place of love and creation. The tree represents a place of origin, both physical and spiritual, where love and life are born. It teaches us that birth, both literal and metaphorical, often happens in moments of divine love and closeness, where new beginnings are nurtured under God’s care.
Deuteronomy 8:8
“A land with wheat and barley, vines and fig trees, pomegranates, olive oil and honey; a land where bread will not be scarce and you will lack nothing; a land where the rocks are iron and you can dig copper out of the hills.”
This verse paints a picture of a land abundant with blessings, including fruitful trees. While apples are not specifically mentioned, the reference to various fruit-bearing trees symbolizes abundance and God’s provision. It teaches that God’s blessings, like the fruit of the land, provide for our needs in every way. The abundance mentioned here reflects the physical and spiritual nourishment that God provides, showing that He cares for every aspect of our well-being.
Proverbs 25:11
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”
This verse uses apples of gold as a metaphor for words that are spoken at the right time and with wisdom. The beauty and value of such words are compared to precious metals, showing that just as an apple’s sweetness delights the taste, wise words delight the ears. It teaches that thoughtful, well-timed speech has great value and impact, much like a precious fruit is treasured for its sweetness and nourishment. The verse underscores the importance of speaking with purpose and grace.
Genesis 3:6
“When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.”
This passage, though not explicitly mentioning apples, is often depicted with the apple as the fruit of temptation. The desire for wisdom and the fruit’s beauty led to disobedience, and the result was the fall of humankind. The apple here symbolizes the allure of temptation, showing that sin often appears good at first but leads to devastating consequences. It teaches the importance of discerning between what seems appealing and the potential spiritual consequences of yielding to temptation.
Proverbs 13:12
“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.”
While apples are not mentioned, this verse uses the image of a tree of life to symbolize fulfillment and healing. Just as an apple tree produces fruit that nourishes, so does the fulfillment of hope bring joy and vitality to the heart. It teaches that long-held desires and hopes, when fulfilled, are a source of nourishment and life. The metaphor shows that God fulfills the deep longings of our hearts, much like a tree bearing fruit to satisfy the soul.
Psalm 1:3
“That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.”
This verse uses the metaphor of a tree bearing fruit to describe the righteous person who is nourished by God’s word. While apples are not mentioned specifically, the image of fruitfulness is clear. It teaches that those who meditate on God’s law and live righteously will bear fruit in their lives, producing good results and thriving. Just as a tree bears fruit in its season, those rooted in God will prosper and flourish spiritually, bearing fruit that blesses others.
Song of Solomon 7:8
“I said, ‘I will climb the palm tree; I will take hold of its fruit.'”
In this verse, the palm tree is mentioned as part of the imagery of love and desire, with its fruit symbolizing the intimacy and enjoyment between the lover and beloved. While apples are not mentioned directly, the symbolism of fruit as something desirable and pleasurable is present. The verse teaches that love, like fruit, is meant to be enjoyed and cherished. Just as fruit nourishes the body, love and affection nourish the soul, strengthening relationships and providing joy.
Jeremiah 24:3
“What do you see, Jeremiah?” I asked. “Figs,” I answered. “The good ones are very good, but the bad ones are so bad that they cannot be eaten.”
While this passage speaks of figs, it uses the imagery of fruit to discuss the quality of people—good and bad. Just as apples can symbolize both good and bad outcomes (depending on how they are used), this verse teaches that the quality of one’s actions and heart will yield good or bad results. It encourages us to cultivate good fruit in our lives, reflecting godly character, and to avoid actions that lead to destructive consequences.
Matthew 7:17-18
“Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.”
Jesus uses the imagery of fruit-bearing trees to explain that actions reflect the character within. A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad tree produces bad fruit. The apple, often symbolizing choices and actions, here represents the outcomes of our lives. This passage teaches that what we do reflects who we are; our choices, like the fruit we bear, reveal the state of our hearts. It encourages us to cultivate a life that bears good fruit by living according to God’s will.
Hosea 14:7
“People will dwell again in his shade; they will flourish like the grain, they will blossom like the vine; Israel’s fame will be like the wine of Lebanon.”
In this verse, fruitfulness is symbolized by grain, vines, and wine, all of which reflect abundance and blessing. While apples are not mentioned, the image of flourishing and blossoming fruitfulness aligns with the biblical concept of divine provision and blessing. It teaches that God’s people, when walking in His favor, will prosper and bear good fruit, much like trees that bear nourishing fruit in abundance. God’s blessing leads to growth, prosperity, and spiritual vitality.
1 Corinthians 9:7
“Who serves as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard and does not eat its grapes? Who tends a flock and does not drink the milk?”
Paul uses the metaphor of farming and harvesting fruit, highlighting that those who work hard deserve to enjoy the fruits of their labor. While not directly mentioning apples, this verse speaks to the principle of reaping the benefits of one’s work. It teaches that God’s people, like those who plant and harvest, will reap what they sow. The fruit of our labor, whether physical or spiritual, is a reward for our diligence and faithfulness.
Psalm 34:8
“Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.”
This verse uses the metaphor of tasting to describe the experience of God’s goodness. While apples are not mentioned specifically, the imagery of tasting something sweet and nourishing reflects the joy and fulfillment that comes from God. It teaches that, just as apples nourish the body, experiencing God’s goodness nourishes the soul. The verse encourages believers to seek God’s presence and experience His goodness, which satisfies and blesses those who take refuge in Him.
Proverbs 3:18
“She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her; those who hold her fast will be blessed.”
This verse compares wisdom to a tree of life, similar to how apples are often depicted as symbols of knowledge and life. Wisdom, like a fruitful tree, brings nourishment and blessing to those who embrace it. The tree of life metaphor teaches that, just as fruit sustains physical life, wisdom sustains spiritual life. Those who seek wisdom will find blessings that lead to prosperity and understanding, showing that wisdom is essential for a thriving, fruitful life.
Matthew 7:19
“Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”
This verse highlights the importance of bearing good fruit as a reflection of one’s character. It speaks of the consequences of a tree that does not bear fruit, which is cut down and discarded. The apple tree, a symbol of fruitfulness, represents those who live with purpose and obedience to God’s will. It teaches that living a fruitful life, marked by good deeds and righteousness, is vital in maintaining a relationship with God, while a life of fruitlessness leads to judgment.
John 15:2
“He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.”
In this passage, Jesus compares Himself to the true vine, and believers are the branches. Just as an apple tree needs pruning to grow better fruit, believers need discipline and guidance to bear good fruit. The metaphor teaches that God refines and nurtures His people, cutting off unfruitful parts of their lives and encouraging growth in the areas that bear fruit. It emphasizes that spiritual growth requires effort, pruning, and yielding to God’s process to become more fruitful in His service.
Song of Solomon 2:5
“Strengthen me with raisins, refresh me with apples, for I am faint with love.”
In this verse, the speaker asks for apples to provide nourishment and refreshment, symbolizing the replenishment of emotional and spiritual energy through love. The apple here represents the sweetness and rejuvenation that love, both human and divine, provides. It teaches that love, when strong and fulfilling, has the power to restore and strengthen us in times of weakness. Just as apples are refreshing and sweet, love can be a source of strength and renewal in our lives.
Genesis 49:22
“Joseph is a fruitful vine, a fruitful vine near a spring, whose branches climb over a wall.”
In this verse, Joseph is likened to a fruitful vine, symbolizing prosperity and success. His growth and productivity are connected to the life-giving spring, which represents God’s blessing. Just as an apple tree flourishes with the right nourishment, Joseph’s life flourished because he was connected to God’s provision and guidance. The verse teaches that, like a tree bearing fruit, those who are nourished by God’s presence will bear good fruit in their lives, growing and prospering in His will.
Deuteronomy 33:24
“About Asher he said: ‘Asher is most blessed of sons; let him be favored by his brothers, and let him bathe his feet in oil.'”
Although apples are not mentioned, the blessing upon Asher speaks to the abundance and fruitfulness that come from God’s favor. The imagery of bathing in oil symbolizes abundance and joy, which is often associated with fruitfulness. It teaches that God’s blessings bring prosperity and fulfillment. Like an apple tree that bears fruit abundantly, those who live under God’s favor are blessed and will experience growth, abundance, and joy in their lives.
Ecclesiastes 3:2
“A time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot.”
This verse reflects the cyclical nature of life, where seasons of growth and harvest are followed by seasons of rest and renewal. While apples are not directly mentioned, the planting and harvesting metaphor connects to the idea of fruitfulness in life. It teaches that there are seasons in our spiritual lives where we bear fruit, and seasons where we are pruned or refined. The cycle of planting and reaping is an essential part of spiritual growth, much like the natural growth cycles of fruit trees.
Joel 2:22
“Do not be afraid, you wild animals, for the pastures in the wilderness are becoming green. The trees are bearing their fruit; the fig tree and the vine yield their riches.”
This verse speaks of restoration and abundance after a period of devastation. The trees bearing fruit, including the fig tree and the vine, symbolize God’s blessing and renewal. While apples are not mentioned specifically, the imagery of fruitful trees reflects the idea of God’s provision and the joy of harvest. It teaches that God restores His people, bringing fruitfulness and prosperity after difficult times, just as trees that were once barren will once again bear fruit under His care.
Matthew 3:10
“The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of bearing good fruit in one’s life. Like an unfruitful tree that is cut down, those who do not live according to God’s commands will face judgment. The apple tree, as a symbol of fruitfulness, serves as a reminder that God desires us to produce fruit in our lives—acts of righteousness and obedience. It teaches the serious consequences of living a fruitless life and the call to bear fruit that is pleasing to God.
Revelation 22:2
“Down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month.”
The tree of life in the New Jerusalem symbolizes eternal life and abundance. While apples are not specifically mentioned, the fruit-bearing tree here represents the eternal, abundant life God offers to His people. The constant bearing of fruit each month signifies continuous blessing and provision. It teaches that in God’s kingdom, life is abundant, never ceasing, and ever-fruitful. The fruit of this tree represents the eternal joy and fulfillment believers will experience in God’s presence.
Proverbs 11:30
“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and the one who is wise saves lives.”
In this verse, righteousness is compared to a tree of life, bearing good fruit that nourishes others. The apple tree, as a symbol of fruitfulness, reflects the idea that those who live righteous lives produce life-giving fruit that blesses others. It teaches that our actions and character, when aligned with God’s will, not only benefit us but also bring life and wisdom to those around us. Just as a fruit tree nourishes others, so do the righteous nurture those in need.
Proverbs 12:12
“The wicked desire the stronghold of evildoers, but the root of the righteous endures.”
This verse contrasts the fleeting desires of the wicked with the enduring strength of the righteous. While apples are not mentioned, the idea of enduring fruitfulness is symbolized by the root of the righteous. It teaches that just as the root of a fruit tree holds it steady and enables it to bear fruit, so does the character and foundation of the righteous lead to lasting prosperity and stability. The root symbolizes the strength of a life rooted in righteousness, producing good fruit.
Matthew 12:33
“Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit.”
This verse emphasizes that the quality of the tree determines the quality of the fruit it bears. Like an apple tree that produces good or bad fruit, our lives are judged by the fruits of our actions and decisions. It teaches that living a life rooted in righteousness will produce good fruit, while a life of sin produces bad fruit. The verse encourages us to examine the fruit of our lives and align our hearts with God’s goodness, ensuring that our lives reflect His truth.
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