Parable of the Bramble Bush

One of the moving stories that occurred in this area was the story of Yotam, the son of Avimelech at Mt. Gerezim, while he confronted the inhabitants of Shechem with a parable.

The trees went once forth to anoint a king over them; and they said unto the olive-tree, Reign thou over us. (Judges 9:8 [Leeser])

The trees requested from the olive tree to be their king, but the Olive tree did not agree to their suggestion because it would interfere with its production of olive oil.

Afterwards the trees approached the fig tree, but the fig tree was preoccupied with producing its fruit.

The trees then turned to the grape vine, but the grape vine was preoccupied with producing its wine.

With no other option, they turned to a prickly bush with no apparent use, called an “atad” (usually translated “bramble”).

The bramble was surprised and amazed that even though he has no fruit, is low to the ground and cannot even give shade, they chose him as king.

And the bramble said unto the trees, If in truth ye anoint me as king over you, then come seek protection in my shadow; and if not, then let fire come out of the bramble, and devour the cedars of the Lebanon. (Judges 9:15 [Leeser])

What can be learned from this story, that is illustrated before us here?