The pomegranates have long been a part of Israel’s religious culture. They are widely used in many areas, everything from being sewn into the priestly robes to being considered a priestly blessing. Exodus chapter 28:33-34 directed images of pomegranates to be woven onto the borders of Hebrew priestly robes. In a later tradition the pomegranate’s 613 seeds corresponded with the 613 mitzvot (laws) of the Torah. Some Jews traditionally ate pomegranates on Rosh Hashanah and Sukkot.

If closely examined, the pomegranate has a calyx (the bottom of the fruit) shaped like a crown. In Jewish tradition it has been seen as the original “design” for the proper crown for the priest. The fruit gives off a red liquid (like blood) that is used for natural dyeing of non-synthetic fabrics. So for the Jew, the pomegranates have long held a place in their religious traditions and service to the Lord. This is why Fort Victory Church and The Circle of Grace have chosen to plant these beautiful trees on the site of the new facility. All are invited to be a part of sowing these seeds.