When I spiritually connected with a distant ancestor a couple of weeks ago, he offered me a jackfruit. I did not understand this at all at first, but after this meeting I’ve been going through a deep reflection with the symbolism of this fruit, specifically my relationship with the idea of “community”
Jackfruit Symbolism
There are many different messages the jackfruit offers. Because of its big size, the jackfruit often symbolizes abundance and prosperity. It also could represent the idea of "community" because its large size makes it a representation of shared wealth and generosity.
Its thorny exterior with a sweet fruit in the interior is also a metaphor for spiritual transformation and enlightenment because of the challenges and obstacles (thorny exterior) that need to be overcome to reach our goals, joy, etc. (sweet fruit interior)
Filipino Folk Beliefs
Before we get into my personal experience with my connection to the Jackfruit, here are some fun Filipino folktales/superstitions surrounding the fruit:
- Finding twin seeds in a jackfruit is a good business charm
- Finding a stone in the fruit is also considered a good luck charm, and anyone who owns it will be successful in business
- To prevent disease from attacking the jackfruit tree, one should bury a dead animal near the tree trunk on Good Friday
Betrayals Leading to Connection
I feel like I’ve gone through many different lifetimes of betrayal, and in this lifetime was no different. I already experienced deep betrayal within my own family, which lead to many betrayals in friendships and communities as well. Before my meeting with this ancestor, I believed I was meant to lead my path alone, and that I was not meant to be a part of any community. I was too afraid to deepen any future connections because of all the pain I’ve been through since I was young.
However, after accepting the jackfruit from my ancestor, I realized I needed to stop trying so hard to be part of communities who simply do not give a fuck about me. Duh, right? But just because it’s simple doesn’t mean it was easy.
So when I finally let go of the need to belong and healed the parts of me that felt empty, I tore down my walls and surrendered. Instead of doing the act of seeking, I stayed still in my own energy and my own world, and just allowed the Universe to do its work to align me to the right people. And wow I did not expect that shit to work LOL.
I had to be comfortable with being seen, (which is still a WIP) and just letting my light shine. I realized I dimming my light wayyyy too much to make others feel better about themselves. (I cringe just typing this) It’s no longer my problem if they feel scared or small or insecure around me; I just can’t hide anymore. My ancestors have hid their whole lives to survive, and I want to break that cycle and live to thrive. I never understood why people thought that shining my light meant that I was taking away theirs. Using the symbol of the jackfruit, (which is a HUGE fruit btw) I recognize that there is abundance for everyone.
Being in this newfound mindset, I am so happy to finally be able to connect with others who understand the joy and pain that this path leads us. It warms my heart to be able to share my gifts and my magic with you all without fear. To talk about folklore, mythology, the spirits, the goddesses and gods feels like a dream come true; just like my ancestors who were the healers and storytellers of their communities.
I am proud to continue this path as an Artist, especially if my art is the bridge that will lead me to help others in seeking healing or comfort or joy and everything in between within their own paths.
Conclusion
Jackfruit, to me, is a symbol of community but most of all connection. Just as my ancestor offered me the gift of the jackfruit to connect to him, I only offer a piece to anyone who feels aligned and connected to me and my art/messages. I no longer accept trying to fit in with everyone, and I take no offense to anyone who just doesn’t align with me.
I am not one to judge or tell you how to walk your path, but I can only hope to inspire you to find a belonging with others but most of all within yourself. If you struggle with being accepted, struggle with finding out who you are, or where your place is in the world, know that you aren’t alone.
May the spirit of the jackfruit enlighten you and assist you in your journey of spiritual transformation, and in helping you find a community that supports and aligns with you.