Surah At-Tin (95:1) begins with a solemn oath: "By the fig and the olive!" (وَالتِّينِ وَالزَّيْتُونِ). The choice of these two fruits in the Quranic oath is remarkable, as modern science confirms their exceptional nutritional qualities.
"وَالتِّينِ وَالزَّيْتُونِ" — "By the fig and the olive!" (95:1)
The fig (Ficus carica) is one of the oldest fruits cultivated by humanity. Modern studies show that it is rich in fiber, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and antioxidants. Figs contain phenolic compounds that have demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The olive tree (Olea europaea) and its oil are at the heart of the Mediterranean diet, recognized by WHO and numerous studies as one of the most beneficial diets for cardiovascular health. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and polyphenols with antioxidant properties.
Scientific studies have shown that regular consumption of figs can contribute to blood pressure regulation, digestive health, and the prevention of certain chronic diseases. Olive oil, for its part, is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
The Mediterranean diet, of which the fig and olive are essential components, was validated by the PREDIMED study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2013, which demonstrated a significant reduction in cardiovascular events among participants following this diet.
The fact that the Quran highlighted these two fruits in an oath, more than 1,400 years ago, while their nutritional virtues were only scientifically confirmed in the 20th and 21st centuries, is a striking example of the relevance of the Quranic text.