Apple of Enlightenment

The Apple of Enlightenment (Japanese: ちえのリンゴ Apple of Wisdom) is a machine^[1] mentioned in EarthBound, used by Giygas to predict the future.

It tells of a prophecy that a boy, Ness, will prevent Giygas's plans from taking place. The prophecy is first introduced by Buzz Buzz, who explains it to Ness and mentions that the it had been handed down by the Apple as a legend since ancient times.

Starman Deluxe indicates Giygas did not believe in the prophecy. This explains why Giygas did not immediately target Ness, Jeff or Poo. Paula was likely targeted due to her public use of PSI, not necessarily because of the prophecy.

Prophecy

"The point" refers to the 8 Sanctuary Locations and "the light" likely refers to the 8 Melodies.

The nightmare rock may refer to Ness's Nightmare or the Mani-Mani Statue. Most likely it refers to the former, as once Ness's Nightmare is defeated in battle, Ness is told to go to Saturn Valley where he travels back in time to defeat Giygas.

Due to Buzz Buzz's untimely death, the full, specific contents of the prophecy are never revealed. The prophecy also mentions Paula, Jeff, and Poo, but only in ambiguous terms. Pokey mentions that the Apple's prophecy didn't predict his involvement.

References