Jesus Christ the Apple Tree

“Jesus Christ the Apple Tree” is a striking devotional hymn whose text is attributed to Richard Hutchins, an 18th-century English poet and clergyman. The hymn first appeared in 1784 in a New England publication entitled Divine Hymns or Spiritual Songs, and while the authorship is not beyond debate, Hutchins is often credited with its creation. Its imagery draws heavily from the Song of Solomon 2:3, where the beloved is described as “an apple tree among the trees of the wood,” as well as from Jesus’ teaching in John 15:5, “I am the vine, ye are the branches.” Through this blending of poetic and biblical language, the hymn portrays Christ as the true source of life, refreshment, and spiritual nourishment.

The text presents Christ as the tree of sustenance and delight. The singer confesses weariness from worldly pursuits and contrasts them with the sweetness and rest found only in Jesus. The apple tree image captures the beauty and satisfaction of Christ’s presence, symbolizing not only eternal life but also daily spiritual refreshment. It moves gradually from the personal experience of faith to the eternal hope of dwelling under Christ’s shade in Heaven, where the fruit of His love will never cease.

Over time, the hymn has been set to various melodies, the most well-known arrangement being by Elizabeth Poston (1905–1987) in the mid-20th century. Poston’s haunting, gentle choral setting, often sung a cappella, has become a Christmas favorite, although the hymn itself is not specifically seasonal. Its enduring appeal lies in its rich biblical imagery, heartfelt devotion, and the simple but profound longing for Christ’s sustaining presence. Today it is cherished both in traditional hymnals and in modern choral repertoires as a testimony to the soul’s satisfaction in Jesus Christ, the true apple tree.