Embrace New Beginnings with Art and Nature: The Symbolism of Almond Branches

Three years ago, I created the painting “What do you see?” depicting an almond branch swaying in the wind. This artwork was made for a friend in Sarajevo, Bosnia, who was experiencing some challenges at the time. The painting symbolized the arrival of a new season, with the blooming almond branch representing the transition from winter to spring. If you're anticipating a seasonal change in your life, today's blog post is meant for you.

"What do you see?" 2023. Acrylic on canvas, 40cmx40cm.

In 2023, I picked the theme of an almond branch for my friend’s painting, being inspired by Van Gogh’s “Almond Branch,” which coincided with my reading of the book of Jeremiah and God’s choice of an almond branch as a means of communication to the prophet, but also to readers of the book. 

In my research on the theme of an almond tree, I discovered that it is one of the first trees to "awaken" from its winter slumber, signaling the start of spring, yet it is one of the last to yield a harvest. This serves as a powerful symbol that some transformations reveal early indications of change, but the outcomes of these transformations can often take a long time to materialize. 

An almond tree is mentioned in the book of Jeremiah in the Bible. Notably, one translation of the name Jeremiah in Hebrew is “He'll Be Dumped By The Lord.” This interpretation aligns with the narrative of the book, where the protagonist is poorly treated by the people he is meant to address on behalf of God. This book offers an intriguing perspective for those who have gone through a season of various breakings. Although it is generally challenging to read, it contains remarkable and insightful guidance for discovering meaning, purpose, and hope during times of deep sorrow.

Returning to the theme of an almond, in Hebrew, the word for "almond" is shakeid, derived from a root meaning "to watch" or "wake." In the Scriptures, there's a wordplay involving "almond" and God's "watchfulness": "And the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 'Jeremiah, what do you see?' And I said, 'I see an almond branch.’ Then the LORD said to me, 'You have seen well, for I am watching over my word to perform it'" - Jeremiah 1:11-12

At the beginning of the book, an almond branch is used as a visual symbol to convey God's promise to faithfully fulfill His promises. Inspired by this message, I painted "What do you see?". I shared my journey of painting an almond branch with a friend to whom I gifted it couple of years ago, during a time when he felt “abandoned by the Lord.” He noted that he received the painting during a challenging phase in his life, and our relationship was somewhat strained then. Despite the various challenges we both encountered, these difficulties brought us closer to God, prompting us to pray for each other, regardless of past issues.

Speaking of embracing new beginnings with art and nature, three years after finding temporary solace in the symbol of an almond branch, my friend recently chose to leave a stable job as an adviser to a government minister for a position that is less secure and glamorous but much more fulfilling. From a period when he faced challenges in a temporary job, he moved into a phase where he had to choose between two outstanding opportunities. He is now in a committed relationship with a wonderful woman and enjoys life. One of his greatest wishes, for his mother to convert from atheism to Christianity, has been fulfilled; and our friendship has a new beginning. Speaking of changes, much has transformed over the past few years. He is now reaping the benefits of personal transformations he chose to embrace while passing through serious difficulties. 

Here's what he recently shared about the painting "What do you see?": 

Tea’s work represents far more than art alone. In her paintings, one can sense inspiration, a message, and a spiritual depth that flows from what she carries within herself. Particularly powerful is the symbolism of the almond branch from Jeremiah, which I myself received as a profound message — the almond as a sign of watchfulness, new life, and a reminder that God watches over His word to fulfill it.

Throughout the history of Christianity, art has been one of the ways through which God spoke to people and touched human hearts. This is witnessed by magnificent cathedrals, frescoes, icons, and countless works born out of faith and inspiration. At that point, art ceases to be merely aesthetic — it becomes service, message, and testimony. This is precisely what can be felt in Tea’s work: a gift that does not merely attract the eye, but reminds a person of something deeper, quieter, and eternal.

When you view your personal life as if it were a painting being observed by someone, what do you notice? Is there an almond branch present on your current spiritual journey with God? Perhaps even this blog post is a sign of the beginning of a new season in your life.

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11