Mark 11:20

In the morning. That is, the morning of Tuesday, the day following the cleansing of the Temple. Since Monday morning the disciples had had further opportunity to witness the stubborn animosity of the Jewish rulers toward Jesus. They were to see much more before this day was over. For Jesus and the Twelve, the first incident of this fateful day was the sight of the withered fig tree.

From the roots. A detail noted only by Mark. This is Jesus’ only miracle that can be said to have brought injury. Critics have suggested that Jesus pronounced the curse on the fruitless fig tree in anger. However, in the entire life of Jesus there is nothing to suggest that He ever wantonly brought injury or suffering to men, animals, or other creatures of His hand, or that He acted from unworthy motives. The circumstances under which Jesus performed this miracle provide a fully satisfactory explanation of His purpose in performing this unique act. This very day the leaders of the nation were to confirm their decision to reject Jesus as the Messiah, and He was to announce their rejection by Heaven (see on Matt. 23:38). Of all of this the disciples had no true understanding, and it was undoubtedly for the purpose of preparing them for this tragic event that Jesus cursed the fig tree.