A small, shrublike tree and its fruit, Punica granatum L. The prominence of the pomegranate fruit in early Bible times is indicated by its use in the decorations on the “robe of the EPHOD,” on which it is alternated with golden bells (Exod. 28:33-34; 39:24-26; cf. Ecclus. 45:9), and on the capitals of the temple pillars of JACHIN AND BOAZ (I Kings 7:18, 20, 42=II Chr. 3:16; 4:13; cf. II Kings 25:17; Jer. 52:22-23).

As a token of the fruitfulness of S Palestine, the spies took pomegranates, figs, and grapes back to Joshua (Num. 13:23), and Moses mentioned them in describing the Promised Land (Deut. 8:8; cf. Num. 20:5).

Saul encamped at Gibeah (probably Geba) near a place identified by its pomegranate tree (I Sam. 14:2).

Pomegranates are mentioned in describing and praising the bride in Song of S. 4:3, 13; 6:7; and the flower, as a symbol of spring (6:11; 7:12–H 7:13). Wine was made from the juice of the fruit (8:2). Joel (1:12) includes this tree in his picture of devastation from locusts; and Haggai (2:19) includes it with grapes, figs, and olives as an indication of restoration to God’s favor.

In city names it appears in Num. 33:19-20 (RIMMON-PEREZ); Josh. 15:32 (RIMMON 1; cf. Isa. 10:27); 21:25 (GATH-RIMMON); Neh. 11:29 (ENRIMMON). The fruit played a prominent part in ancient art and mythology as a symbol of fertility; the tree was even depicted as the TREE OF LIFE.

Pomegranate