The Mulberry Tree

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D. C. · Feb 2, 1905

The Mulberry Tree

ALL fruit is best when just picked from the tree, the mulberry especially, when fully ripe, as it is more juicy than any other fruit, and makes a delicious, refreshing drink. In France and other places the mulberry tree is extensively grown for its leaves, for the feeding of silkworms. And already in Victoria many are planting mulberry trees for the same purpose, in expectation that the silk from the silkworms will yield a good profit, while developing a new branch of industry.

Perhaps few realize the work of the silkworm, beyond the fact that it is a silk-spinner. There are some who, for religious motives, will not wear any article made of silk, because spun by the worm.

Again: most lovers of dress and fashion are never so happy as when clothed in the silk of the worm. Herein is a lesson for all to think about. The clothing we so admire and covet is given to us by the worms we so despise. Worms, vegetables, and beasts clothe our naked bodies; understanding this, where is room for pride of dress? . . .

The mulberry tree will always remind Bible readers of the Lord's answer to David when he inquired if he should go out to the Philistines. The Lord said, “Go not up after them; turn away from them, and come upon them over against the mulberry trees. And it shall be, when thou shalt hear a sound of going in the tops of the mulberry trees, that then thou shalt go out to battle: for God is gone forth before thee to smite the host of the Philistines. David therefore did as God commanded him: and they smote the host of the Philistines.” 1 Chron. 14: 13-17.— Selected.