Which symbol represents agriculture at its core in the FFA emblem?

The symbol that represents agriculture at its core in the FFA emblem is the plow. The plow signifies hard work and labor, which are foundational elements of agriculture. It represents the importance of tilling the soil and preparing it for cultivation, an essential step in the farming process. The plow embodies the idea of productivity and the relationship between the land and the agricultural industry. This symbolism aligns with the broader goals of the FFA, which emphasizes leadership, community involvement, and the advancement of agricultural practices.

While other symbols like the owl, corn, and eagle each hold their own significance within the FFA emblem—the owl representing knowledge, corn symbolizing unity and growth, and the eagle embodying freedom and the national scope of the organization—it is the plow that truly captures the essence of agriculture and its intrinsic values.