Olives and olive oil are highly significant in the Bible, both practically and symbolically. They were central to daily life in Israel: used for food, fuel, medicine, anointing, and worship.
The olive tree was a symbol of peace, blessing, and prosperity. In Psalm 52:8, David declares:
“But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God; I trust in the mercy of God forever and ever.”
The olive tree’s durability and fruitfulness made it a fitting image for God’s faithful people. Romans 11 uses the olive tree to describe Israel and the inclusion of Gentile believers into God’s covenant promises.
Olive oil was used for anointing kings, priests, and prophets, signifying consecration and the presence of the Holy Spirit. In Exodus 30:25, God commanded:
“And you shall make from these a holy anointing oil, an ointment compounded according to the art of the perfumer.”
It was also used in the lamps of the tabernacle (Exodus 27:20), symbolizing God’s light and presence among His people. The oil provided light that was constant and pure, just as God’s presence was to be unceasing and holy.
In the Garden of Gethsemane, which means “oil press,” Jesus prayed before His arrest. The crushing of olives to produce oil is a powerful picture of Christ’s suffering and the pouring out of His life for the salvation of many.
Olives and olive oil in Scripture represent blessing, consecration, light, and sacrifice. They remind believers of the sustaining grace of God, the indwelling of His Spirit, and the call to walk in holiness and spiritual vitality.
