Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near:

MARK 13:28KJV
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Mark 13:28 (KJV)

What does Mark 13:28 mean?

Mark 13:28 uses the example of a fig tree starting to grow tender branches and new leaves as a sign that summer is near, teaching that certain visible signs can show when something important is about to happen. Jesus is telling his listeners to pay attention to the signs around them, just as they would notice the fig tree’s changes to know the season is changing.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to his disciples during a private conversation on the Mount of Olives, explaining how they can recognize the approach of significant events he has been describing. The fig tree is a familiar image for his audience, and Jesus uses it to help them understand that just as natural signs point to coming changes in the seasons, there will be recognizable signs pointing to the fulfillment of his words.

The Greek behind Mark 13:28

  • παραβολή (parabolē): This word means "parable" or "illustration." Jesus is not speaking literally about agriculture, but using the fig tree as a teaching picture to make his point clearer.
  • τρυφερὸς (trupheros): Translated as "tender," this word describes the branch when it is soft and flexible, a sign of new growth. It highlights the early stage of change, not the full arrival of summer.
  • ἐκφύῃ (ekphuē): Meaning "puts forth" or "sprouts," this word emphasizes the visible, outward sign—the leaves appearing—that signals a change is coming.
  • ἐγγύς (engys): Translated as "near," this word stresses the closeness or imminence of what is being signaled, not something far off or vague.

Why Mark 13:28 matters

  • Mark 13:28 clarifies that Jesus expects his followers to observe and interpret signs, not to ignore them or guess blindly about the future.
  • The verse connects the natural, everyday experience of watching a tree grow with the spiritual alertness Jesus wants from his disciples, making his teaching practical and relatable.
  • By using a parable, Jesus signals that understanding his message requires attention and thought, not just surface-level hearing. This verse encourages careful observation and discernment.

Where else these words appear

“tender” Greek G527 · used in 2 verses

  • Matthew 24:32 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:

“forth” Greek G1631 · used in 2 verses

  • Matthew 24:32 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:

“summer” Greek G2330 · used in 3 verses

  • Matthew 24:32 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:
  • Luke 21:30 When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand.

“leaves” Greek G5444 · used in 5 verses

  • Matthew 21:19 And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig tree withered away.
  • Matthew 24:32 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:
  • Mark 11:13 And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet.