Apollo is the Greek god associated with many things, including music, poetry, healing, and prophecy. One of Apollo’s strong associations is with the laurel tree. Laurel leaves were used to crown victorious generals and poets in ancient Greece. The laurel tree became a symbol of Apollo. But what exactly is meant by “Apollo’s fruit”?
What Tree is the Laurel?
The laurel referred to in Greek mythology is the bay laurel tree, also known as sweet bay or simply laurel (Laurus nobilis). This evergreen tree is native to the Mediterranean region. The laurel has long, aromatic leaves that can be used as a herb or spice. The small, avocado-shaped fruit of the laurel is not especially fleshy or soft.
So while Apollo is connected to the laurel tree, the laurel’s rather inconspicuous fruit is not particularly associated with him. Laurel leaves, on the other hand, are used to represent Apollo and decorate his worshippers.
Fig Trees in Greek Mythology
If Apollo has a fruit, the strongest candidate is not the inedible laurel fruit, but figs. Fig trees are linked to several Greek gods and appear in a few myths about Apollo.
The Greek word for fig is sykon. In some myths, the first fig tree was created by the goddess Demeter as a reward for one of her followers. Demeter was associated with agriculture and fertility.
Figs also feature in the stories of Zeus and Dionysus. But Apollo, too, was sometimes associated with fig trees in Greek mythology.
Apollo and the Fig Tree in Phrygia
According to an origin myth from the ancient region of Phrygia, Apollo was born under a fig tree in the Phrygian city of Pessinus. When Apollo was born, he killed the she-dragon Delphyne, hung her skin in the tree, and named the area Delphi after her.
So in this myth, Apollo’s birth is connected to the fig tree, along with the origins of Delphi as his most famous shrine and oracle site. As a result, some ancient Phrygian coins featured Apollo sitting on a fig tree.
Apollo and Trophonius at Lebadea
At the site of Lebadea in ancient Boeotia, there was a sacred grove said to be the place where Trophonius – a seer or prophet associated with Apollo – would descend into the earth and provide oracles.
Within this grove at Lebadea stood a fig tree that was believed to have been planted by Trophonius himself. Those who wished to consult Trophonius’s oracle would eat the fruit of this sacred fig tree before descending into his cave. So again, Apollo’s prophetic powers are linked to the fig tree.
Figs as Symbols of Life and Fertility
Beyond specific myths, figs had general symbolic importance in ancient Greek culture. Figs were seen as a life-affirming fruit because of their associations with fertility and vitality.
Sexuality and Rebirth
Figs were considered sexually stimulating foods in the ancient world. In some Greek myths, the first fig was seen as a gift meant to awaken desire. Due to this aphrodisiac reputation, Plato reportedly banned figs from his ideal city.
Figs were also thought to be restorative, able to replenish sexual vigor and stamina. Eating figs was considered a fertility charm of sorts.
The appearance of some sliced figs may have contributed to their sexual symbolism, resembling female genitalia. Their sweet taste and fleshy interior gave them sensual associations. Beyond sex, figs represented new life and rebirth.
Nourishment and Sweetness
In addition to fertility, figs symbolized general sustenance and nourishment. Fig trees provided a vital source of food in the Mediterranean.
Figs were a traditional part of the Greek diet, consumed both fresh and dried. Their high sugar content made them seem like a treat compared to other fruits. The fig’s sweetness made it a popular fruit, and it appeared in myths as a reward or special gift from the gods.
Apollo and Fig Tree Myths in Context
Looking at the role of fig trees in Greek mythology provides insight into Apollo’s associations. As an agricultural product, the fig represented fertility, life, sustenance, and pleasure.
Apollo’s Powers over Vitality
As a god connected to vital forces like healing, prophecy, poetry, and music, it makes sense for Apollo to be linked to the vibrant fig tree. Apollo governed the forces that animated sacred sites like Delphi. Fig trees symbolized the replenishing blessings of Apollo.
Lebadea as Underworld Oracle Site
The oracle of Trophonius at Lebadea had underworld connections, with the prophet said to descend into the earth. Eating the fruit of the sacred fig tree may have ritually sanctified visitors before entering this space between life and death.
Multiplicity in Greek Myths
Greek mythology can be fluid. While Apollo has strong laurel associations, it is not surprising for him to be occasionally linked to other trees. Fig mythology demonstrates the proliferation of symbolic meanings in Greek myths.
Conclusion
The laurel tree and its leaves, not fruit, are the primary symbols of Apollo in Greek myth and culture. But Apollo does have connections to fig trees in some origin stories and oracle sites. As a nourisher associated with vital powers like prophecy and healing, tying Apollo to the fig tree’s symbolic fertility and sustenance resonates with the god’s attributes.