A single Yubari melon usually sells for somewhere between $50 and $100 — already a high price for fruit. But in 2019, a matched pair of top-grade melons sold at auction for nearly $45,000. What kind of melon could possibly be worth that much?

Well, it turns out this isn’t your average fruit stand find. These melons are grown in Yubari, a small town on Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido. The region’s volcanic soil, carefully controlled greenhouses, and cool climate are ideal for cultivating this rare cantaloupe variety. But it’s not just the soil that sets them apart — it’s the treatment. Farmers hand-pollinate the flowers, prune each vine to focus on just one fruit, and gently massage the growing melons to ensure flawless shape. Each is cushioned, cleaned, and often topped with a small hat to prevent blemishes from the sun.

The result? A sweet, juicy, perfectly round melon with a fragrance so rich it’s been compared to fine perfume. But the price isn’t just about flavor — it’s a symbol. In Japanese culture, gifting a premium melon is a way to express respect, gratitude, or status. That $45,000 pair of melons? They were likely purchased more for publicity and prestige than dessert.

Even so, $45,000 is a staggering amount for something that — no matter how perfect — will spoil in a matter of days.

It brings to mind a contrast from Isaiah 40:6–8 (NWT):

“All flesh is green grass, and all their loyal love is like the blossom of the field… The green grass dries up, the blossom withers, but the word of our God endures forever.”

If the most perfect fruit money can buy is still fading, what does that say about the enduring value of what Jehovah gives freely? The knowledge of God refreshes the spirit, teaches the humble, and leads to peace. It’s not grown under glass or sold at auction — it’s offered by invitation.

“Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.” (Isaiah 55:1, NWT)

The most expensive fruit in the world may last a week.

Jehovah’s truth lasts forever.

And it tastes better, too.