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Pomegranate
The fruit of the pomegranate, juicy and full of
seeds,
is a common symbol of human, animal, and vegetable fertility. The
pomegranate symbolizes fertility and happiness, the wisdom of the
people of Israel and the charm of its land The Pomegranate is one of
the Seven kinds of Israel The land of Israel was blessed with "
Seven kinds "from the garden and the vineyard as told in Deuteronomy
( 8.8 ) "A Land of wheat and barley and vines and fig trees and
pomegranates ,A land of Oil Olives and Honey. There's often a
pomegranate on Rosh Hashana table because of a tradition that
pomegranates have 613 seeds, one for each of the commandments that a
Jew is obliged to keep. Pomegranates – The Blessed Fruit
Pomegranates are said to be an historical symbol of fertility with origins in various places around the world. Used for folk medicine and known for its health benefits, they are packed with antioxidants and provide a substantial amount of potassium, Vitamin C, Niacin, and are high in fiber.
Its religious significance is noteworthy as there are many references to the pomegranate in the Bible as found in Exodus, 1 Kings, Deuteronomy, Jeremiah, Song of Solomon and others. Some religious scholars assert it may be the true fruit of the Tree of Life.
Judaic tradition asserts that every pomegranate holds 613 seeds, representative of the 613 commandments of the Torah and is one of the Seven Species mentioned in Deuteronomy 8:8. During the Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year) celebration, pomegranates are eaten as a symbol of abundant goodness. And, as a prominent symbol used in Jewish art, the designs of many Judaica pieces and Jewish jewelry celebrate the significance of the pomegranate by reflecting its shape, color and importance within Judaism. |
