The tree of life in Revelation represents eternal life and complete restoration through Jesus Christ. It appears in Revelation 22:1–2, as part of John’s vision of the New Jerusalem:
“And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.”
(Revelation 22:1–2)
This tree connects back to Genesis 2:9, where the original tree of life stood in Eden. When sin entered the world, access to that tree was lost (Genesis 3:22–24). Its reappearance in Revelation signifies that through Christ’s redemptive work, what was lost in the Fall is now fully restored.
The tree of life represents our eternal fellowship with God. Its twelve kinds of fruit, bearing monthly, are an abundant provision for unending life. The healing leaves are for healing physically, spiritually, and relationally, for all who dwell in the New Jerusalem.
This imagery underscores that eternal life is not simply unending existence but perfect communion/”>communion with God, free from sin, curse, and death. Revelation 22:14 reinforces the blessing:
“Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city.”
The tree of life, therefore, represents both the reward of the redeemed and the fulfillment of God’s promise to restore paradise. It assures believers that redemption ends in full restoration and everlasting joy in God’s presence.
