The Call of the Grapevine and Fig Tree - Miketz - Chanukah

Zecharia 2:14-4:7

In this week’s haftorah the Navi speaks of a time when the Jewish people will experience remarkable financial success. Zecharia describes a vision of a person under a grapevine and another under a fig tree, reflecting the bounty of the Jewish people. A closer look at the posuk however, reveals that it is not simply that each man has a tree to provide him with shade and sustenance, but on that day says Hashem, 

בַּיּ֣וֹם הַה֗וּא נְאֻם֙ ה צְבָקְוֹת תִּקְרְא֖וּ אִ֣ישׁ לְרֵעֵ֑הוּ אֶל־

תַּ֥חַת גֶּ֖פֶן , וְאֶל־תַּ֥חַת תְּאֵנָֽה.

“On that day—declares Hashem, Master of Legions—each man will invite his fellow beneath the vine and beneath the fig tree.” (Zechariah 3:10) 

What is the significance of each man calling to his friend under the grapevine and fig tree rather than the more familiar verse describing each man sitting under a tree? 

The ultimate expression of joy is found in the desire to share with others. Zechariah highlights not just material abundance but also a generosity of spirit. The prosperity of the Jewish people will not lead to isolation or self-centeredness but to a community in which individuals actively include one another in their blessings. The image of each person calling to a friend under the grapevine and fig tree paints a poignant picture of economic success intertwined with unity and shared joy.

And why, specifically, does Zechariah reference grapevines and fig trees as symbols of peace and prosperity? Figs are sweetest and most prized in their natural fresh state, while wine requires effort and time. The message of Zecharya now becomes clear.  Not only will the people be blessed with enjoyable fruit, but they will also share these blessings of the present peace and future tranquility. 

This message is especially meaningful during Chanukah, when we celebrate not only the miracle of the oil but also the spiritual strength that enabled the Jewish people to rededicate the Beit Hamikdash. Like the grapevine and fig tree, Chanukah reminds us of the dual blessings of the present and the future—the immediate joy of light and the endurance of our people. By sharing the light of the menorah with others, we have the opportunity and responsibility to illuminate our world.