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September 19, 2014

The apple has long been regarded as a symbol of desire.  The Romans associated this fruit with Venus, the Goddess of Love.  At the heart of the cross-section of an apple are five seeds in the shape of a pentagram, which corresponds symbolically to the human being with its five fingers, five sense, and five extremities (arms, legs, and head).  

The Hebrew Bible spoke about the apple as the forbidden fruit in Eden, and in later years, the Jewish tradition regarded the apple in a positive manner.  It has a perfect shape, a sweet taste, and is fragrant. It is a symbol for beauty, sweetness and the hope for prosperity.  The hardiness of the fruit, its durability, represents strength and growth.   

The apple harvest is associated with the Fall, which is also the season when the New Year holiday, called Rosh Hashanah, is celebrated.

Apples dipped in honey have a strong symbolism for Rosh Hashanah, signifying the wish for a prosperous and sweet new year.  Honey applies to the words of G-d and the wisdom of the Torah, and is the symbol for rebirth and personal growth.  May this year be good and sweet. 

Paula Brooks is the owner of Alef Bet Jewelry.

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