The tree and its fruit are represented by the same word. It is derived from a root signifying “to hasten,” which is appropriate, seeing it is the first tree to break out into blossom, as a forerunner of spring. The meaning is confirmed by Jeremiah 1:11-12, where the prophet saw an almond tree, and Jehovah said, “Thou hast well seen: for I will hasten my word to perform it.” The bowls of the golden candlestick were to be made like almonds (Ex. 25:33-34; Ex. 37:19-20). Aaron’s rod budded, blossomed, and yielded almonds in one night (Num. 17:8): beautiful type of the coming of the Lord Jesus out of His grave perfect for His priestly functions.
In Ecclesiastes 12:5, when everything seems to be decaying, instead of “the almond tree shall flourish,” it may be translated “the almond tree shall be despised”; others say, “cause loathing”; others prefer to compare the almond tree to the white head of an old man hastening to the grave.