In the Old Testament it mentions pomegranate – as a symbol of ornament on the robes of the high priests, as a representation of love. It is said that Pomegranate came from Persia and was cultivated throughout the Mediterranean region. Eventually it made its way to Africa, India, the Near East, southern Europe and America – brought by the Spanish in the 18th century. It is grown throughout the world and thrives in a climate of mild temperature and low humidity.
The Story of Persephone-and-the-pomegranate
Demeter and Zeus had a beautiful daughter named Persephone. Demeter loved Persephone very much and wanted to keep her near always. So one day, while Persephone was out alone picking flowers, Hades came up from the dark Underworld on his great black chariot and stole her away.
Demeter was so upset. She searched everywhere but she couldn't find Persephone. She was so sad that she forbade the trees and plants to grow while her daughter was missing.
But Persephone did not love Hades and to punish him, she decided she would not eat or drink. Hades, who was God of the Underworld, fell in love with Persephone and wanted to marry her, but Demeter refused to allow it. Zeus saw how unhappy this made Demeter and Persephone, so he ruled that Persephone should live with Hades in the dark Underworld for three months of the year and nine months above in the sunlight. Demeter was overjoyed to have Persephone back, but her happiness did not last. Zeus found out that Persephone has sucked on some pomegranate seeds while down in the Underworld.
This meant that Persephone had to go back. Because the plants had all died, people did not have enough food. Therefore Zeus decided that Persephone should come home. There was one condition- she could not have had anything to eat or drink while she was in the Underworld.
Ever after, there was a winter for three months each year.