GOD'S FRUIT: POMEGRANATE SYMBOLISM

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By einron

POMEGRANATE SYMBOLISM

"Pomegranate" is derived from Latin pomum ("apple") and granatus ("seeded"). This has influenced the common name for pomegranate in many languages (e.g., German Granatapfel , seeded apple).

God gave orders to Moses to put embroidered pomegranates of blue, purple and scarlet with golden bells between, at the bottom of the high priest's blue robe or ephod (Ex. 28:33, 34). Aaron was to wear the robe when he ministered to the Lord in the Holy of Holies so he would not die. Symbolism teaches us by associating or representing an idea, or enhancing the profile and motivating us to unify the meaning.

In almost every religion the pomegranate has been used as a symbol of humanity's most fundamental beliefs and desires, life and death, birth and eternal life, fertility and marriage, abundance and prosperity. Most aspect of the pomegranate come to symbolize something for its shape, color, seeds and juice. To the Jews, the pomegranate represents righteousness, to the Christians, it means life and hope of eternal life and to the Chinese, wealth and many sons.

Summary points

  • The pomegranate has been held sacred by many of the world's major religions
  • It has been revered through the ages for its medicinal properties
  • Preparations of different parts of the plant have been used to treat a variety of conditions
  • It features in the coat of arms of several medical associations


HIGH PRIEST GARMENT
HIGH PRIEST GARMENT

SYMBOLISM - JUDAISM

Wikipedia

 

Judaism

Exodus 28:33–34 directed that images of pomegranates be woven onto the hem of the me'il ("robe of the ephod"), a robe worn by the Hebrew High Priest. 1 Kings 7:13–22 describes pomegranates depicted on the capitals of the two pillars (Jachin and Boaz) which stood in front of the temple King Solomon built in Jerusalem. It is said that Solomon designed his coronet based on the pomegranate's "crown" (calyx).[41] Jewish tradition teaches that the pomegranate is a symbol for righteousness, because it is said to have 613 seeds which corresponds with the 613 mitzvot or commandments of the Torah. For this reason and others, many Jews eat pomegranates on Rosh Hashanah. However, the actual number of seeds varies with individual fruits.[42] It is also a symbol of fruitfulness.[43] The pomegranate is one of the few images which appear on ancient coins of Judea as a holy symbol, and today many Torah scrolls are stored while not in use with a pair of decorative hollow silver "pomegranates" (rimmonim ) placed over the two upper scroll handles. Some Jewish scholars believe that it was the pomegranate that was the forbidden fruit of the Garden of Eden.[43] Pomegranate is one of the Seven Species (Hebrew: שבעת המינים, Shiv'at Ha-Minim ), the types of fruits and grains enumerated in the Hebrew Bible (Deuteronomy 8:8) as being special products of the Land of Israel. The pomegranate is mentioned in the Bible many times, including this quote from the Songs of Solomon, "Thy lips are like a thread of scarlet, and thy speech is comely: thy temples are like a piece of a pomegranate within thy locks." - Song of Solomon 4:3.

Symbol for Righteousness
Symbol for Righteousness

BIBLE VERSES ON POMEGRANATE

Symbol for Righteous 613 mitzvot/commandments of the Torah. See Judaism

Symbol for Fruitfulness Exodus 28:33-34 -

Seven species - wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, dates

Special Products of Israel Deuteronomy 8:8; Numbers 13:23

Temple Ornament - Church 1 Kings 7:18,20; 2 Chronicles 3:16 - 100 pomegranates on the chain,

200 on the top of 2nd capital representing people.

1 Kings 7:42 - 400 pomegranates for the two networks

2 Chronicles 4:13 - 400 pomegranates Seeds of the pomegranates represent people

Love of Christ and Church - Song of Songs 4:3,13: 6:7; 7:12; 8:2

Joy dried up - Joel 1:12, Haggai 2:19

COLORS

 Colors are significant to the Israelites.  The pomegrantes embroidered on the hem of the priest's garments are in blue, purple and scarlet (Exodus 28:33).

   COLORS - WIKIPEDIA   Colors The Israelites used an indigo-colored dye called tekhelet; this dye was likely made from snail murex trunculus. This dye was very important in both Jewish and non-Jewish cultures of this time, and was used by royalty and the upper-class in dyeing their clothing, sheets, curtains, etc. This dye is known as Tyrian purple. In the Torah the Israelites are commanded to dye on of the threads of their tallit (prayer shawl) with tekhelet; when they look at this dye they will think of the blue sky, and of the God above them in Heaven. Tekhelet corresponds to the color of the divine revelation (Midrash Numbers Rabbah xv.) Blue in Judaism has thus had an important significance throughout the history of Jewish culture up to the present. "Argaman" was the symbol of power, and of glory (Isa. lx. 6; Judges viii. 26), so that Alexander Balas robed Jonathan in purple (I Macc. x. 20), which was especially used to designate royal dignity (I Macc. x. 20, xi. 58). "Tola'at" and "shani" ("scarlet," "crimson") symbolized blood, and thus frequently typified life, although this color often designated sin, as well as joy and happiness (Gen. xxxviii. 28; Josh. ii. 18, 21; Jer. iv. 30). Purification from sin was also symbolized by purple (Lev. xvi. 10). "Shesh" (white) was the symbol of physical and intellectual purity, being the true color of light, without any modification (Cant. v. 10; Dan. iv. 10, 14, 20; Zech. xiv. 5). White also symbolizes death. In some cases, it can also symbolize life

CHRISTIANITY

Wikipedia

The pomegranate is a symbol of the resurrection and the hope of eternal life. Because of its abundance of seeds, it can also symbolize royalty and the church, where the seeds represent the many believers who make up the one universal church.

The pomegranate symbol derives from the ancient myth of Properspina and her annual return to earth in the spring. Christianity adopted this theme, with the pomegranate associated with the Resurrection of Christ and of believers instead of the annual resurrection of crops. The seeds bursting forth from the pomegranate are also likened to Christ bursting forth from the tomb.

Pomegranate represents many sons, a common fertility symbol.
Pomegranate represents many sons, a common fertility symbol.

CHINESE SYMBOLISM

Pomegranates symbolize fertility for this fruit is full of seeds. A wedding gift may be a special picture with one of these fruits shown half-opened. The meaning is a hundred seeds, or in other words, a hundred sons. The word for seed is zi, and it is also the word for sons.

The pomegranate is not used for sacrifice. The reason, it is considered to be too seductive. If you see a pomegranate on an old sash or cap of office in an ancient painting, the meaning is saying or maybe praying to keep the title or rank from generation to generation in the same family. As in the two meanings for zi, the word shi which also means generation.

There are many, many Chinese symbols and they all concern the basic things: a long and healthy life, to attain high rank, achieve great wealth, and to have many sons. The Chinese symbols and meanings

  1. shapes (e.g. the yin yang symbol, gourd)
  2. colors (e.g. red, gold)
  3. people/deities (e.g. Buddha, Gods of Luck, Prosperity, and Longevity)
  4. animals (e.g. bats, tortoise, phoenix, dragon)
  5. plants (e.g. lotus, peony, plum blossom)
  6. fruits (e.g. mandarin orange, peach, pomegranate)
  7. motifs, calligraphy, and paintings

 

EMBLEMS

The pomegranate has been revered for its medicinal properties, prominently featuring on the heraldic crests of several medical institutions in the west: It appears on the coats of arms of the British Medical Association, the Royal College of Midwives, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Royal College of Physicians of London. The pomegranate was chosen as the logo for the Millennium Festival of Medicine.

It was an emblem in the coat of arms of Catherine of Aragon (1485 - 1536). She was the first wife of King Henry VIII. However, when Henry and Catherine could not produce a male heir, the King eventually divorced her and married Anne Boleyn. When Anne became queen, she had designated a new coat of arms, showing a white falcon pecking at a pomegranate.

Symbolism

GOD'S MANIFESTATION: HOLY SPIRIT (SYMBOLISM) (1) WATER http://hubpages.com/hub/holyspiritsymbolismwater

GOD'S MANIFESTATION: HOLY SPIRIT (SYMBOLISM) (2) FIRE http://hubpages.com/hub/godsmanifestationholyspiritsymbolismfire

 

Related Topics - Fruits

GOD'S FRUIT: BLUEBERRIES FIGHT CANCER http://hubpages.com/hub/godblueberriesfightcancer

GOD'S FOOD, GRAVIOLA CURES CANCER http://hubpages.com/hub/godfoodgraviolacurescancer

GOD Provides FRUIT For FOOD: MANGOSTEEN Antioxidant For Diseases http://hubpages.com/hub/godprovidesfruitmangosteenantioxidant

Comments

Unchained Grace profile image

Unchained Grace Level 2 Commenter 23 months ago

It certainly has a legacy all its own and a well deserved one. One other way I've heard it explained is in reference to the Parable of the Sower whereby the Pomegranate is rich in the seeds which shall heal. There are many, for sure, though where they fall has much to do with whether or not their benefit will be realized or not. See what I mean?

djbraman profile image

djbraman 23 months ago

The seven species are the life giving fruits of the land which God created in the garden of Eden, and I agree with unchained grace, that the healing properties of these bountiful foods God has given to us has not been realized. I love this hub, it's very well researched and a biblical mystery delightfully given to Christians. It is a majestic fruit as it appears to have a crown. Crown corresponds to hod, which means majesty and glory. Hod is also related to the Hebrew word toda which means thanks and recognition. According to Rabbi Rav Yitzchak, the healing property of the pomegrante corresponds to our immune system. So pomegrantes boost our immune systems. (Might want to try some in place of oranges.) The best part of their healing properties is that pomegrante seed oil causes cancer cells to self-destruct; the juice of the fruit is toxic to most breast cancer cells, yet has almost no effect on healthy cells. Pomegrante juice has also been proven to decrease heart disease by decreasing LDL (bad cholesterol) and increased HDL (good cholesterol). Interestingly the other 6 biblical species have just as much healing properties. Einron, I wish you would consider doing a continuation of the 7 species, because I don't believe I've seen anyone write on this subject as detailed as you. If more of us knew what healing we had by God at our fingertips, the Lord's people would'nt be dying of cancer, heart attacks and diabetes. Now theis hub will give you some discernment about how God wants health for us!

Smireles profile image

Smireles 23 months ago

Thank you so much for this rich detailing about the historical and religious symbolism of the pomegranate. I have never made such a study and your information has enriched my life. Blessings!

einron profile image

einron Hub Author 23 months ago

Unchained Grace

It is interesting when you talk about the Pomegranate seed

in the parable of the sower. I hope someone else would elaborate on this. Peace.

einron profile image

einron Hub Author 23 months ago

djbraman

The pomegranate has a crown, and I meant to write something about it. When I looked at the article on Judaism, it meantioned about Solomon basing his crown on the caleyx of the pomegranate, I decided not to mention it. This is already mentioned.

I hope to write another hub on the healing power of the pomegranate later on. I would like readers to consider this on symbolism first.

Thank you for giving me the idea of writing on the seven species of the food found in Israel. God must have put it in your head to mention it to me. Praise the Lord.

Eating the right food is very important in the life of a person. Obeying the commandments is keeping us spiritually healthy, and eating the right food helps the body to be physically fit.

einron profile image

einron Hub Author 23 months ago

Smireles

Writing about the symbolism of the pomegrante has also enriched my life, because I never thought much about the subject before. I prayed to God before I wrote the subject

and prayed that I would have His approval before I get it published. Blessings!

djbraman profile image

djbraman 23 months ago

When we incorporate the 7 species into our diet we become renewed with vitality and renewed strength, and I've just had it in my spirit that you are the one to write these articles, and I believe God's word concerning each of these foods and what happens when we put them into our diets will astound you and I just see God opening your spirit to a truth he's wanting you to see. Because obviously you are fascinated with the subject. I've read bits and pieces from writers on the subject but never as comprehensive as yours!

einron profile image

einron Hub Author 23 months ago

Thank you very much for saying what you did that God is opening my spirit to a truth he is wanting me to see. I do ask God for subjects to write and I do ask Him to approve before I send it for publication. It is very important to me that He approves of what I write.

Do you know that when I was writing about Valentine's Day, I hit my foot against a steel emergency door and it caused me so much pain from the foot to the shin, and up to the knee? I put Chinese plaster on my foot and shin for a couple of days. The pain did not subside and I put some cream on the blisters. I could not walk and my b-i-law bought me a walker so I could go to see my doctor.

My family doctor could not diagnose the blisters on my shin and sent me to the hospital right away. I had different cards for 3 hospitals, but only the Mount Sinai hospital card was with me. So I went to Mt. Sinai hospital. The emergency doctor could not diagnose what the blisters were and consulted another doctor. I was given xray and antibiotic pills. For 3 weeks, I had over 44 pain killers. I had to see a dermatologist, who is also a Jew. In all, I saw 4 doctors just for hitting my foot against a steel door?

That is the work of the devil for disrupting my writing about pagan rites. I pray that God gives me the strength to continue in my work. Pray for me to do His will.

I thank you for giving me the message. Now I have the message confirmed from a worker of God. I wholeheartedly believe in His power and love for the world.

Blessings!

A M Werner profile image

A M Werner Level 4 Commenter 23 months ago

einron, this is a very intense and very deep study on this particular fruit. I truly did not know there was so much to learn about it. Higher heights and deeper depths - no one should ever say they lack for new things to learn about the Bible. If they do say such things, they truly have stopped searching and wanting answers. Seek Him while He may be found for their is no knowledge in the grave. This truly is the day the Lord has made - Rejoice and be glad in it. Peace.

einron profile image

einron Hub Author 23 months ago

Thank you for your comments. No one can ever learn the whole truth from the Bible. Little by little it is revealed to those who seek the truth. All glory to the Lord God who searches our hearts. Peace!

DeBorrah K. Ogans profile image

DeBorrah K. Ogans Level 7 Commenter 23 months ago

Einron, Absolutely wonderful informative hub! You have presented a well researched article on the pomegranate! It is indeed a marvelous fruit with healing properties! No wonder it is topped with a crown!

"The pomegranate is a symbol of the resurrection and the hope of eternal life. Because of its abundance of seeds, it can also symbolize royalty and the church, where the seeds represent the many believers who make up the one universal church." This was a very thorough and concise article! Marvelous Work!

Thank you for sharing this excellent hub! In His love & Blessings!

einron profile image

einron Hub Author 23 months ago

Thanks.

Different groups have different interpretations. Judaism sees it differently from Christianity and the Chinese culture thinks only about wealth and sons.

To each his own. Peace!

ReuVera profile image

ReuVera Level 2 Commenter 22 months ago

einron, I found this hub! Thank you for mentioning it in my hub about seven species. You did a great researching job!

The pomegranate's sculpture is even featured in front of Supreme Court in Jerusalem.

I love pomegranate fruit and eat it as much as I can. It is seasonal, so in my town I can find it in stores only in Fall.

einron profile image

einron Hub Author 22 months ago

Thanks for the comments!

The pomegranate sculpture is featured in front of the Supreme Court in Jerusalem probably becsuse of the significance of its crown.

Sometimes, I drink pomegrante juice which is a bit tart.

kathy israel 21 months ago

excellent posts regarding pomegranates... the best i have seen so far keep up the good work

einron profile image

einron Hub Author 21 months ago

kathy israel

Thank you for your kind comments regarding the pomegranates.

God bless.

NikkiG 17 months ago

God gave me a pomegranate Oct 05 and of course I too did a study about it. God gave it to me in an ornament form (real fruit treated) by very special means. What I fail to understand is why? If you could share your thoughts with me, I would so appreciate.

einron profile image

einron Hub Author 17 months ago

NikkiG

Pray to God for understanding. The pomegranate means different things to different people. God revealing personaly means more than anyone else's interpretation.

john 17 months ago

Hello Einron, thanks for this very informative hub on pomegranates...Very well researched! My daughter absolutely loves this fruit

einron profile image

einron Hub Author 17 months ago

john

Thanks for visiting. Glad that your daughter loves pomegranate. God had already provided the fruit for the Israelits when they reached the Promised Land.

steven 14 months ago

just a random fact, when you open a pomegranet, you are spattered with its juices, which are scarlet. There is no way around this if you want to eat the seeds, your entire front part of your shirt will be covered in red dots. I believe God wants us to connect this to the sprinkling of blood that the high priest would do on the day of Atonement and would eventually be completed in the work of Christ who is the one who fufilled the law or, in the case of the pomegranet, surrounded all the 613 laws perfectly to make one entity. All the laws are bound up in Jesus!

einron profile image

einron Hub Author 14 months ago

steven

Interesting comment! Thank you.

fred 14 months ago

it is stated in Koran that pomegranate is the fruit of the heaven

einron profile image

einron Hub Author 14 months ago

fred

Thank you for your comment!

Angel709 profile image

Angel709 Level 2 Commenter 12 months ago

love the article, love the comment made by Steven. Great insight as I believe in symbolism and the healing properties of fruit and herbs. I found very interesting facts about pomegranates as well and wish they were in abundance year round. I will settle for the juice. I hope to post my findings soon.

einron profile image

einron Hub Author 12 months ago

Angel1709

Thanks for describing the great in symbolism and healing properties of fruit.

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