The Palm Tree as a Symbol

Entering a new year, we all wonder what kind of a year it will be: What joys or challenges will it bring? Will we be strong and graceful? Will we gain a new experience of God’s abundant presence in our lives? Once, during my childhood, I heard a sermon on Psalm 92:12. Growing up in places deprived of palm trees, I was impressed with the list of characteristics they possess that resemble a godly life. Later, I forgot most of them, but the impression was so memorable I started to research the subject. I found out that palm trees are evergreen—a symbol of everlasting life, immortality, and eternity. Palm trees are visually distinctive.

They are easily identifiable in any landscape due to their unique shape and form. If a band is placed around a palm tree’s trunk, as the tree grows, it will break the band. The bands become deeply embedded in the trunks of other kinds of trees.

Palm trees are also strong and durable and do not easily break in a storm. Palm trees can flourish in a desert. Their strong roots grow down deep into the soil, where they find the water needed to survive. Palm trees are surprisingly fruitful, producing different fruits, nuts, and oils. They are valuable and the older the tree, the sweeter its fruit.

Palm trees’ leaves and bark can be used in multiple ways.

Palm trees provide shade and shelter for travelers, birds, and animals. They also protect other varieties of trees. Citrus trees often grow under palms, where they are protected from excessive heat and sunshine. The promise in Psalm 92:12 has become profoundly encouraging to me. As I consider the beauty of the palm tree, I am reminded that as disciples of Jesus, we should be unique and distinctive, strong and durable, rooted in God and well nourished by His Word. Christians should flourish and bear fruit even in a desert, serve people in multiple ways, and help them grow. As we grow older, we should become sweeter and more like Jesus—evergreen in faith, hope, and love.

Galina Stele