Symbolism: As already noted (see commentary accompanying 1 Nephi 8:2–3), two elements were associated with the tree. To receive the benefit of the tree, one must eat, drink, or both. Over time, different botanical species were associated with the tree of life. According to Geo Widengren:
Tradition differs as to the botanical species of the Tree of Life in the Israelitic Paradise. Some of the rabbis held it to be a date palm, others the olive, and even the fig tree had its advocates. Presumably the vine too must have been held to be this tree, for only then do we understand that the sceptre from the Tree of Paradise may be either a twig from the olive or the vine. That the vine generally holds the place as the Tree of Life would seem to be natural, if we judge from the association between the vine and the King of Israel.
In partaking of the fruit, Lehi follows the tradition associated with the tree of life. While most tree of life myths report that the fruit/liquid bestow renewed life, Lehi’s fruit refreshes his soul. In this way, the symbolism expands beyond physical life to spiritual life, which fills him with “exceedingly great joy.”
Narrative: This part of Lehi’s vision parallels that of Joseph Smith Sr.:
Its beautiful branches spread themselves somewhat like an umbrella, and it bore a kind of fruit, in shape much like a chestnut bur, and as white as snow, or, if possible, whiter. I gazed upon the same with considerable interest, and as I was doing so, the burs or shells commenced opening and shedding their particles, or the fruit which they contained, which was of dazzling whiteness. I drew near, and began to eat of it, and I found it delicious beyond description. As I was eating, I said in my heart, “I cannot eat this alone, I must bring my wife and children, that they may partake with me.”
Both Father Lehi and Father Smith were filled with a desire to share this joy-producing fruit with their families. However, Father Smith saw unborn members of his family while Lehi saw that the two sons about whom he was most concerned would refuse the fruit.
The scriptures include many symbols that recur frequently, often with slightly different meanings. This is the very definition of the symbol’s multi-vocality. For example, James E. Talmage gives interpretations of Christ’s parables that vary significantly from those given by Joseph Smith.