“Lesson 13: The Allegory of the Olive Trees,” Book of Mormon Class Member Study Guide (1999), 9
“Lesson 13,” Book of Mormon Class Member Study Guide, 9
Lesson 13
The Allegory of the Olive Trees
Jacob 5 contains an allegory from Zenos, a Hebrew prophet mentioned several times in the Book of Mormon. An allegory is a literary device in which one object or event is used to describe or represent another. The following chart may increase your understanding of the allegory:
|
Symbol |
Meaning |
|---|---|
|
Vineyard |
The world |
|
Master of the vineyard |
Jesus Christ |
|
Tame olive tree |
The house of Israel, the Lord’s covenant people |
|
Wild olive tree |
Gentiles (people not born into the house of Israel) |
|
Branches |
Groups of people |
|
Servants |
Prophets and others called to serve |
|
Fruit |
Lives or works of people |
Suggestion for Family Discussion
Explain that the servants mentioned in Jacob 5:61–72 are Latter-day Saints who share the gospel (D&C 133:8). Discuss ways family members can prepare to share the gospel, both as full-time missionaries and in everyday activities. Set a goal that will help family members become better prepared to do missionary work.