Many local Palestinian people have shared with me the important symbolism of the Olive Tree in the Holy Land. Its fruit provides food, oil for cooking, for making soap, and much more. It is a staple as well as a way of life.
Yet it also has a spiritual dimension since it is used for sacramental purposes–“Holy Oils”–used for anointing in our sacraments. Significantly, the Olive Tree represents the people. It endures hardships, and droughts; its roots run deep and strong. If the top of the tree is damaged or cut down, the roots continue to send up shoots that become new trees.
The roots are long-lasting–they have survived hundreds upon hundreds of years under harsh conditions and yet they survive–and continue to produce fruit. The trees are part of the land as are the people–they survive and flourish together, despite hardships.
