Leviticus 24 1-2:
The LORD said to Moses, “Command the Israelites to bring you clear oil of pressed olives for the light so that the lamps may be kept burning continually.”
This passage demonstrates the importance of olive oil to Jewish ritual, going back all the way to the time of Moses. Not only have olives long been an important part of Jewish agriculture and economy, but also of their faith.
Numbers 18: 11-12
“This also is yours: whatever is set aside from the gifts of all the wave offerings of the Israelites. I give this to you and your sons and daughters as your perpetual share. Everyone in your household who is ceremonially clean may eat it. I give you all the finest olive oil and al the finest new wine and grain they give the LORD as the first fruits of their harvest.”
In this passage we see the benevolence of God, giving back some of the gifts given to him by the Israelites. In this passage, the olive oil and wine are gifts from God Himself, a wonderful reminder to us in our mission to bring olives and grapes back to the Negev.
Amos 4:9
“I smote you with scorching wind and mildew; and the caterpillar was devouring your many gardens and vineyards, fig trees and olive trees; yet you have not returned to Me,” declares the Lord.
This passage shows the importance of olive trees and vineyards to the people of Israel. To punish people for falling away from God, he specifically destroyed these trees and plants. Therefore, to plant these new trees is a sign of returning to God.
Can you think of any other bible verses that reference olives or olive trees? What meaning do they hold to you?
If you have any questions about the My Olive Tree mission, we encourage you to get in touch with us today and we will be happy to provide you with further information.
Our Mission
Our mission is to create a partnership between the Evangelical community and the nation of Israel; this partnership will produce employment, income, and revenue for humanitarian aid projects in Israel. We envision the planting of one-million olive trees over the next seven years. This relationship was prophesied in the Bible centuries ago, that the foreigners and strangers (those not of Jewish descent) would help rebuild the walls of Israel and cause the desert to bloom (Isa 35:1). Among other things, this reforestation is an environmental blessing for the entire region. May all who participate in this project be blessed body, soul and spirit; it is time for you to take root in Israel!