The Almond Tree

The Lord told Moses, “Buds will sprout on the staff belonging to the man I choose.” [NUMBERS 17:5]

Aaron’s (almond) rod, or staff, played an important part in God’s plan to lead the Israelites out of Egypt and into the Promised Land.

In ancient Israelite culture, a rod was a symbol of authority. Shepherds used rods to guide and correct their flocks (Psalm 23:4).

When God called the shepherd Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, He demonstrated His power by performing miracles using Moses’ rod (Exodus 4:1–5; Numbers 20:11). God also chose Moses’ brother, Aaron, to perform miracles with his own rod (Exodus 7:19; 8:5, 16).

Aaron’s rod was the one that turned into a snake in Pharaoh’s court; when the Egyptian magi also turned their staffs into snakes, the snake that had been Aaron’s rod swallowed theirs up (Exodus 7:8–10). It was Aaron’s rod that God used to turn the water of Egypt into blood (Exodus 7:19–21). And it was Aaron’s rod that summoned the plagues of the frogs (Exodus 8:5–6) and gnats (verses 16–17).

Later in the desert wilderness we learn of a rebellion by the Israelites against Moses and Aaron. Following the rebellion God commanded that the leader of each tribe bring his rod (staff) to the tent of meeting, with Aaron’s rod representing the tribe of Levi.

The Lord told Moses, “Buds will sprout on the staff belonging to the man I choose.”

In the morning Aaron’s staff, representing the tribe of Levi, had sprouted, budded, blossomed, and produced ripe almonds! This was a clear demonstration of the power of the One who gives life.

And the Lord said to Moses: ‘Place Aaron’s staff permanently before the Ark of the Covenant to serve as a warning to rebels.”

Symbolism: The almond tree’s early blooming is often seen as a symbol of new beginnings and God’s faithfulness. Its ability to blossom in the midst of winter serves as a reminder of hope and renewal. The almond’s association with Aaron’s rod further emphasizes themes of divine selection and authority.

On a lighter note, we all have favourite recipes. I love to make a mandarin and almond salad where the almonds are crystallized. Yumm! Let me know how it goes.

I have also included several photos taken of the little almond tree I recently planted in our back garden. I was amazed to discover the tree bearing fruit in the first year of planting!