Book of Joel - Chapter 1 - Verse 12

The meaning of the verse "The vine is dried up, and the fig tree languisheth; the pomegranate tree, the palm tree also, and the apple tree, even all the trees of the field, are withered: because joy is withered away from the sons of men" can be interpreted as a metaphor for the spiritual and moral decay of a community. In this verse, the drying up and withering of the trees symbolize the loss of vitality, fertility, and abundance that once characterized the land. The mention of various types of trees further emphasizes the widespread devastation and decay that has befallen the people. The ultimate cause of this deterioration is identified as the absence of joy among the sons of men. This lack of joy is indicative of a deeper spiritual malaise and disconnect from the source of true happiness and fulfillment. Overall, this verse serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from joy and the resulting impact on the well-being of individuals and society as a whole.

In this verse, the prophet Joel is using the metaphor of trees to represent the spiritual and emotional state of the people. The drying up and withering of the vine, fig tree, pomegranate tree, palm tree, and apple tree signify a lack of vitality and abundance in the land. These trees were symbols of prosperity and blessing in ancient Israel, so their withering indicates a spiritual drought and a lack of God's favor. The mention of all the trees of the field being withered emphasizes the widespread nature of this spiritual decay. The reason for this devastation is given: "joy is withered away from the sons of men." This suggests that the people's disobedience and turning away from God has led to spiritual desolation and a loss of the joy that comes from a relationship with God. Through this vivid imagery, Joel is calling the people to repentance and a return to God in order to experience restoration and the renewal of joy in their lives.