Matthew 21:18-22

The fruitless fig tree withers,
its barren branches bend
contorted in their thirst,
a dry and desperate end.

Besieging soldiers swords,
the temple stones are torn
one tumbled on another
a crumbled carcass scorned.

A cursing Christ decries
the poverty of their lives
the lack of love that’s seen
no faith, no fruit, just leaves.

Today’s Holy Tuesday of Easter week, the day Christians traditionally remember Jesus’ cursing of the fruitless fig tree and the fruitlessness of the Temple this symbolised.
(31.03.26)

© Ben Quant 2026
Photo by Wyxina Tresse on Unsplash