A Fruitful History
Pomegranates have been around since ancient times.
The fruit has many biblical links, from ornamenting the high priests’ robes to decorating Solomon’s temple. Some scholars say that the pomegranate, rather than the apple, was the fruit that Eve gave to Adam in the Garden of Eden, as apples aren’t indigenous to the area.
They can be synonymous with desire. “Let us go early to the vineyards,” says the Song of Songs, “and if the pomegranates are in bloom… there I will give you my love.”
Pomegranates are one of the so-called seven species associated with the Promised Land, which Deuteronomy describes as “a land of wheat and barley, of vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey.”
Other cultures too have shared a love of pomegranates. The ancient Egyptians put them in their tombs. In Greek myth, Persephone was unable to resist their allure. To the Chinese, pomegranates are associated with fertility and bounty.
The Spanish brought the pomegranate to America in the 18th century. The words grenade, garnet and Granada are derived from it.
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
