Garlic - A Natural Antibiotic, Stamina Strengthener, Indigestion Causing Plant

Herbal Remedies from the Judean Hills
שּׁוּם – Garlic – Allium Sativum

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A Natural Antibiotic, Stamina Strengthener, Indigestion Causing Plant

Garlic doesn’t grow in my garden, but it does decorate my kitchen and is easily available in the local grocery stores. Every Thursday afternoon when I cook up a storm, I open about 15 cloves of garlic, which I use generously in salads, dips, soups and casseroles. If any dish seems a bit bland, adding some garlic will usually take care of it. However, when my mother is visiting, I have to go gently with the garlic, as she doesn’t digest it well. She is not the only person I know with allium intolerance. On the other hand, garlic has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Everyone knows that garlic is the best natural antibiotic to prevent or curtail the flu and common cold. Allicin-containing garlic supplement can prevent attack by the common cold virus. This is substantiated by numerous scientific studies, i.e. P. Josling, Preventing the common cold with a garlic supplement: a double-blind, placebo-controlled survey. Supplementation with aged garlic extract reduces the severity of cold and flu symptoms: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled nutrition intervention. The Jewish penchant for garlic stems all the way back to the time of our bondage in ancient Egypt, as we learn in this week’s Torah portion:

ספר במדבר פרק יא פסוק ה זָכַרְנוּ אֶת הַדָּגָה אֲשֶׁר נֹאכַל בְּמִצְרַיִם חִנָּם אֵת הַקִּשֻּׁאִים וְאֵת הָאֲבַטִּחִים וְאֶת הֶחָצִיר וְאֶת הַבְּצָלִים וְאֶת הַשּׁוּמִים:

“We remember the fish that we ate in Egypt free of charge, the cucumbers, the watermelons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic” (Bamidbar 11:5).

Garlic was part of the daily diet of many Egyptians. Particularly the Egyptian working class and the Jewish slaves in Egypt were fed garlic and other allium vegetables, to maintain and increase their strength, in order to enable them to work harder and increase their productivity.

Why Should You Serve your Husband Garlic Friday Night?

There are additional, juicier explanations for why garlic is so central in the Jewish cuisine. I recall how the Yeshiva’s wise women initiated me into the secret of garlic, when I first became religious in 1980 and soon after married. “You must serve stir-fried garlic for Friday night dinner,” they insisted, “in order to ensure marital bliss.” This is because Friday night is traditionally the special designated time for marital intimacy, and according to the Talmud, garlic increases male sexual performance and fertility. In fact, eating garlic Friday night is one of the five regulations enacted by Ezra when he led the return of the Jewish people from Babylonia to Israel:

Garlic hanging on Rebbetzin’s kitchen wall

תלמוד בבלי בבא קמא דף פב/א עשרה תקנות תיקן עזרא...אוכלין שום בערב שבת משום עונה דכתיב אשר פריו יתן בעתו וא"ר יהודה זה המשמש מטתו מערב שבת לערב שבת. ת"ר חמשה דברים נאמרו בשום משביע ומשחין ומצהיל פנים ומרבה הזרע והורג כנים שבבני מעיים וי"א מכניס אהבה ומוציא את הקנאה:

Ezra made ten regulations...That they eat garlic on the eve of Shabbat, on account of the mitzvah to have sexual relations. As it is written, “He shall be like a tree that yields its fruit in its proper time” (Tehillim 1:3). Rav Yehuda taught, this verse refers to a person who has sexual intercourse from Friday night to Friday night. The rabbis taught that garlic has five qualities: It satiates and warms the body and brightens the face, it increases semen, and it kills parasites in the intestines. Others add that it instills love and so eliminates jealousy (Babylonian Talmud, Bava Kamma 82a).

In traditional oriental medicine, garlic has been used to improve male sexual dysfunction and to recover testicular function. There are studies that supports garlic’s ability to enhance spermatogenesis and improve impotence. Yet, the studies about garlic’s effects on sperm-production are few, and their results are contradictory. These inconsistencies could be contingent on three main factors 1. The type of preparations, 2. The way of administration and 3. The dose.

Garlic – Good or Bad for Your Health?

Garlic has traditionally been used to kill parasites and controlsecondary fungal infections. Current scientific studies verify the Talmudic dictum that garlic kills parasites in the intestines. Garlic detoxifies while gently stimulating elimination. It has antioxidant properties that protect against oxidation caused by parasite toxins. In spite of the many additional proven health benefits of garlic that we list below, Rambam classifies garlic as one of the damaging foods that should be eaten cautiously. “There are other kinds of food that are injurious... A little of them at a time may therefore be taken, but only at intervals of several days. One should not accustom oneself to make a meal of them or to eat them regularly with the meal. Examples of this category are… leeks, onions, garlic; mustard and radish. All these are bad foods. They should be eaten very sparingly and only during winter. In the summer, they should not be eaten at all. Neither in summer nor in winter should beans or lentils be eaten as a separate dish. Gourds may be eaten in summer (Rambam, Hilchot Deot 4:9). When I teach Rambam on Nutrition & Health, I emphasize that Although Rambam lived almost a millennium ago, his general principles are still 100% relevant for today. Yet, when it comes to particular foods, it is questionable whether Rambam’s guidelines apply today. The reason for this could be that the nature of vegetables has changed substantially in the last 1000 years, due to changes in climate, soil condition, water quality and more. I imagine that in Rambam’s time, garlic was much stronger than it is today and was therefore suitable only as a medicine rather than a food. It is also possible that our constitutions have changed since Rambam’s time and that we have become more tolerant to some of the foods which he classifies as being damaging. Since medieval times, garlic has been known as a food that a breastfeeding mother must limit in her diet, to avoid aggravating her colicky baby. Although, recent studies indicate that garlic may actually increase mother’s milk, it is listed among the ‘gassy veggies’ together with onion, and cucumbers. This correlates with the vegetables mentioned in the Torah verse quoted above. Rashi explains why the Children of Israel complained about missing these vegetables. In their daily manna diet, the manna could, have the taste of any food they imagined except for these particular vegetables. “Why did the manna change into everything except these? Because they are harmful for nursing mothers. We tell a [nursing] woman, ‘Do not eat any garlic or onion, for the baby’s sake…’” (Rashi, Bamidbar 11:5).

Health Benefits and Concerns of Garlic

There is conflicting modern research regarding the health concerns and benefits of garlic. One website enumerates 11 health-benefits of garlic  while another lists

17 surprising side effects of garlic you must be aware of. Among these effects, the following three caught my attention:

Garlic can cause liver toxicity if consumed in excess.

Garlic can cause nausea, vomiting, and heartburn.

Garlic may cause gastrointestinal problems.

On the other hand, garlic contains allicin, which has potent medicinal properties. It is also very rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin B6 and Manganese. Moreover, garlic contains trace amounts of various other nutrients. In addition to the health benefits already mentioned, I noted the following health benefits of garlic:

Garlic has cardioprotective properties.

Aged garlic extract lowers blood pressure similar to current first line medications.  Garlic supplements reduce total and LDL cholesterol, particularly in those who have high cholesterol.

Garlic contains antioxidants that protect against cell damage and ageing, thus reducing dementia and heart-disease risk.

Garlic helps detoxify the body from heavy metals

In conclusion, it seems that most people can benefit greatly from garlic consumption within bounds, making sure to avoid going overboard.

Leaving Pealed Eggs, Onions or Garlic Overnight

Our Sages warn us to avoid eating peeled eggs, onions, or garlic that have been left overnight as this could cause danger, forgetfulness, and poverty. A negative energy called ruach ra may dwell on the peeled eggs, onions, and garlic, even if they are covered by a cloth or placed in a bag.  However, if we leave a little of the peel then we’re on the safe side. (Likutei Halachot of Chafetz Chaim Niddah 17a; Ein Mishpat ot 7; Shulchan Aruch Harav, Hilchot Shmirat Haguf v’Hanefesh Seif 7 and many other halachic sources).  Most people are not concerned when these foods are mixed with other food, like in a salad (Samak, Ben Ish Chai; Kaf Hachaim). Some Rabbis say that pickling these foods in vinegar or saltwater or cooking them makes them no longer harmful when left overnight. (Kaf HaChaim Yoreh Deah Siman 115 Ot 93, Tosfot Chayim). According to this view you may buy minced garlic in a jar, since the garlic is mixed with vinegar. Likewise, if you want to save time and peel garlic in advance, make sure to mix the garlic with salt or vinegar before freezing or refrigerating.

Ancient Garlic Power

Allium Sativum, commonly known as garlic, has been considered a sacred and powerful herb since ancient times, both for its spiritual and its healing properties. Garlic has been used by every civilization throughout history, from biblical times until today, including the ancient Greeks and Romans, as well as Asian and European cultures. It was fed to the pyramid builders in ancient Egypt to increase their strength and stamina, while soldiers consumed it to help boost their courage in battle. Ancient Greece administered garlic to athletes before they competed in the first Olympic games, and the Romanians used garlic to repel vampires. They also placed garlic around the house and rubbed it on their doors, windows and gates for spiritual protection. Even today, garlic can help dispel negativity, and prevent envy and jealousy, as mentioned in the Talmud.

Hands On

Garlic enhances the flavor of so many dishes while boosting their health benefits. In Mediterranean cooking, garlic is used in almost every recipe except for desserts. The more you damage garlic’s cell walls, the more its active ingredient, Allicin, is released, giving a more pungent garlic flavor. Since crushing breaks the most cells, crushed garlic cloves taste harsher than sliced or coarsely chopped garlic cloves. Intact garlic cloves are mildest of all. Mashing minced garlic with a pinch of coarse salt helps tame the harsh flavor. Nibble parsley to get rid of garlic breath. To remove garlic smell from your hands, rub them with a lemon wedge, salt or baking soda. Rinse hands well with water.

Roasted Garlic and Butternut Squash Chumus with Goat’s Cheese

The base of this chumus is made of butternut squash, which creates a sweet, light dip that is complemented by aromatic roasted garlic bulbs.

A small/medium butternut squash (700-900g)
4 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra to rub on the squash and garlic and to serve
2 garlic bulbs – about 25-30 cloves
Lemon zest from ½ lemon and a generous squeeze of juice
2 tablespoons techina
10 sprigs of fresh thyme, leaves torn from stems
A handful of flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
50g creamy goat’s cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste

1. Preheat oven to 200C (400F). Cut the butternut squash in half and remove the seeds. Rub it with olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bake in the oven for 45-60 minutes, depending on size.

2. Split the garlic into individual cloves but keep the peel on. Rub them with a little olive oil and bake for around 20-25 minutes beside the squash. Keep an eye on the garlic cloves – they should be tender and golden, not hard and burnt.

3. When everything is done, scoop out the flesh of the butternut squash and peel the garlic cloves. Place both in a blender and add the lemon zest, juice and tahini. Pulse until the garlic and squash are well combined. Transfer to a bowl.

4. Add half the chopped parsley and season to taste with salt and pepper.

5. Serve with crumbled goat’s cheese, a splash of olive oil and the rest of the fresh herbs scattered on top.

Recipe by Josephine Malene Kofod, atastylovestory.com

English Walnut: The Majestic Loner Tree

Herbal Remedies from the Judean Hills 
אגוז המלך – English Walnut – Juglins Regia
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The Majestic Loner Tree

As reflected in its Hebrew name אגוז המלך – ‘nut of the king,’ the walnut tree is a king with its majestic trunk and firm towering branches, replete with perfectly round nuggets of  treasured nutmeat. The Romans valued the tree immensely for its fruit as well as for providing furniture wood. The royal walnut tree is very much an ‘individualist’ that prefers to grow in isolation. It does not like to grow in clusters or near other fruit trees. The walnut tree produces a certain chemical that oozes out from its leaves and dissolves in rainwater. When the dissolved chemicals come in contact with the ground, they stop all types of undergrowth near the walnut tree, especially potatoes and tomatoes. Even the roots of the walnut tree produce chemicals that are toxic for certain plants, particularly for the apple tree. Perhaps this reflects the walnut’s spiritual toxin as its states, “Negative spirits (מזיקין/mezikin) dwell on the branches of the walnut tree” (Sefer Chassidim 753). Perhaps, this is due to its separatist spirit, that doesn’t allow other plants in its vicinity. According, to the Torah, impurity cleaves to desolate places, while the more people are gathered, the more holiness. Perhaps there is a correlation between walnut’s spiritual toxin and the following halachic advice: “A person should not get used to eating walnuts as they lead to forgetfulness” (Kaf Hachaim פלא'י א). I was a bit disconcerted when I read this, as I enjoy nuts of all kinds with dates and 100% raw chocolate as a filling dessert that gives me energy to write for hours. It is also surprising to read that walnuts affect the memory negatively, since research shows that walnuts help develop over three dozen neurotransmitters in the brain. This correlates with the shape of the walnut, which looks exactly like the brain. Perhaps, walnuts could be both good for the brain and simultaneously bad for the memory depending on how and how much we consume them. We often see that the same Hebrew word can have opposite meanings, since from a circular perspective two extremes of the spectrum are adjacent. According to Arabic tradition, walnuts together with dates are good for physical strength and the prevention of heart disease. Still, in order to be on the safe side, now, when dementia is so common, I will try to curb my walnut consumption and eat more almonds, which Rambam enumerates as one of the three healthiest fruits (Hilchot Deot 4:11). I will not eliminate walnuts from my diet as the numerical value of the walnut אגוז/egoz –17 equals that of the Hebrew word טוב/tov – ‘good.’ Thus, there must be much goodness to be gleaned from the walnut.

Walnuts for the Head

The walnut exactly resembles the head. The outer green covering, represents the Pericranium, or outer skin of the skull. Therefore, those husks are exceeding good for wounds in the scalp. Tea from the green outer walnut husk is also useful for treating hair loss and baldness. The inner woody shell has the signature of the skull, and the little yellow skin or peel that covers the fruit, reflects the meninges and pia-mater, which are the thin membranes that envelope the brain. The fruit is a perfect image of the brain, and therefore it is very beneficial for the brain. If you crush the walnut fruits, mix them with wine, and place the paste upon the crown of the head, it comforts the brain and head greatly (William Cole, an exponent of the doctrine of signatures, year 1657, Adam in Eden). Indeed, the walnut resembles the brain with the left and right hemispheres of the cerebrum and the lower cerebellum. Even the wrinkles or folds on the nut are similar to those of the neo-cortex. 

Israel is Compared to the Walnut

ספר שיר השירים פרק ו פסוק יא אֶל גִּנַּת אֱגוֹז יָרַדְתִּי לִרְאוֹת בְּאִבֵּי הַנָּחַל לִרְאוֹת הֲפָרְחָה הַגֶּפֶן הֵנֵצוּ הָרִמֹּנִים:

“I went down into the garden of nuts to see the fruits of the valley, and to see whether the vine flourished and the pomegranates had flowered” (Song of Songs 6:11).

The walnut has many redeeming qualities: its protein-filled fruit, valuable wood and protective shell. No wonder the Jewish people are compared to a walnut.

“Why are the Children of Israel compared to a walnut? The walnut looks like a woody shell, with its inside hidden, but when you crack it open, you find it filled with compartments of food. Likewise, the Children of Israel are modest and humble in their deeds and their learning is not recognized. They do not glorify themselves to declare their own praise. Nevertheless, when you investigate, you will find them filled with wisdom” (Rashi, Song of Songs 6:11).

The fruit-picking season can be exhausting for me, as a single picker of 30 fruit trees; for it is necessary to pick the fruits before they fall to the ground and become filled with ants. At the end of the summer, I can finally breathe in relief for having rescued most of the fruits, shared, consumed and conserved them in the freezer, fridge and pantry, whole or puréed, pickled, or dried; in fruit leather, jams and ice cream. When the walnuts ripen in the late fall, I can relax, because falling to the ground does not cause them damage.

“Just as a nut, although it falls in the mud, the inside will not become gross; likewise, although the Jewish people were exiled among the nations and beaten up incessantly, their deeds did not become gross” (ibid.).

The walnut is also a metaphor for the interconnectedness of the Jewish people:

“Why is Israel compared to a nut? Just as with walnuts, if you remove one from the pile, all of them roll down one after the other, likewise Israel, if one becomes defective, everyone is affected, as it states, “Shall one person sin and you will be angry at the entire congregation?” (Bamidbar 16:22); (Rabbeinu Bachaya, Vayikra 26:37).

Entering the Secret Walnut Garden

תלמוד בבלי מסכת חגיגה דף יד/ב תנו רבנן ארבעה נכנסו בפרדס ואלו הן בן עזאי ובן זומא אחר ורבי עקיבא אמר להם רבי עקיבא כשאתם מגיעין אצל אבני שיש טהור אל תאמרו מים מים משום שנאמר דובר שקרים לא יכון לנגד עיני בן עזאי הציץ ומת עליו הכתוב אומר יקר בעיני ה' המותה לחסידיו בן זומא הציץ ונפגע ועליו הכתוב אומר דבש מצאת אכול דייך פן תשבענו והקאתו אחר קיצץ בנטיעות רבי עקיבא יצא בשלום:

Four entered the Orchard (Pardes). They were Ben Azai, Ben Zoma, Acher [literally, ‘the other,’ referring to Elisha ben Abuya], and Rabbi Akiva. Rabbi Akiva warned them, “When you enter near the stone of pure marble, do not say ‘water, water,’ since [there is actually no water there at all, and] it is written, ‘He who speaks falsehood will not be established before My eyes’” (Tehillim 101:7).  Ben Azzai gazed and died. Regarding him it is written, “Precious in G-d’s eyes is the death of His pious ones” (Tehillim 116:15). Ben Zoma gazed and was stricken [with insanity; he went out of his mind]. Regarding him it is written, “You have found honey, eat moderately lest you bloat yourself and vomit it” (Mishlei 25:16). Acher gazed and cut the plantings [i.e. he became a heretic]. Rabbi Akiva went out in peace (Babylonian Talmud, Gittin 14b).

Not only is the walnut a metaphor for the Jewish people, it moreover represents delving into the mystical depths of the Torah. Why is the Torah Scholar compared to a walnut? Like the four that went into the orchard, three went into the shell and only the fourth went into holiness (Rav Yitzchak Isaac Chaver, Beurei Agadot, Afikei Yam, on Babylonian Talmud, Moed 15b). One of my students, Amber, matched each of the three who went into the shells of the walnut based on their closeness to the truth of the inner fruit. Acher, who became a heretic, was furthest away from the truth as the meaning of his name, Acher – ‘the other’ similar to סִטְרָא אָחֳרָא/sitra achra – the other [impure] side. Therefore, he is considered as going into the outermost husk, which is furthest away from the fruit. Ben Zoma, who was blinded by the light of the truth and went crazy, is next furthest from the truth. Therefore, he is considered as going into the second outermost husk, as a person out of his mind is furthest away from the truth after the heretic, who is directly opposed to the truth. Ben Azzai saw the light and was so awestruck by it that his soul became absorbed within it. His body was not a vessel perfected enough to hold this immense light so he expired. Because his soul did perceive the truth, he is considered as going into the innermost thin husk that adheres to the nut itself. However, since he could not remain in this world he was not on the level of Rabbi Akiva who is compared to the actual fruit. To summarize, the four that went into the orchard correspond to the four parts of the nut as follows:

Acher gazed [at the outer soft husk of the walnut] and became a heretic.

Ben Zoma gazed [at the hard peel of the walnut] and went out of his mind.

Ben Azzai gazed [at the inner thin peel adhering to the nut] and died.

Only Rabbi Akiva went into the holiness of the nut and returned in peace.

Medicinal Properties of Walnut Leaves

Every part of the walnut tree has medicinal properties, including the outer husk and inner bark. The bark and leaves have alterative, laxative, astringent, anti-inflammatory and detergent properties. The leaves have a very strong, aromatic characteristic smell. For internal use, herbal products made from walnut leaves are always best, as they are not only more effective, but also do not have any side effects. You can make compresses and tea for internal use with walnut leaves.

Treat skin ailments: The leaves of the walnut tree have been used medicinally for thousands of years particularly for treating skin disorders. Infusions prepared from the walnut leaves can be applied externally for skin diseases like eczema, acne, herpes, scrofulous diseases or to heal wounds and scratches.

Expel toxins & parasitic worms:  The leaves and the outer skin or ‘pericap’ of the fruit and the brown cover or ‘testa’ of the seed contains so much bitterness that no insects will touch walnut leaves. Thus, walnut leaves became unanimously known as a vermifuge. The husks and leaves, macerated in warm water impart an intense bitterness, which will destroy all worms. You can pour the liquid on lawns and grass walks without injuring the grass itself.  During the 17th century, Nicholas Culpepper made a special paste combining walnut leaf extract, honey, onion and salt to draw out poison from deadly snake and spider bites.

Expel ringworm, microorganisms & bacteria: Walnut leaf has bactericidal action as well as insect repellent properties (Meyer-Buchtela, 1999; Roth, 1993). It possesses two anti-bacterial substances – walnut essential oil and juglone – that expel contagious micro-organisms and calm intestinal infections. In addition, the large concentration of vitamin C found in walnut leaves also enables them to tackle infectious diseases. The astringent tannins in walnut leaves cross-link with skin cells, enabling them to be resistant to allergies and diseases caused by micro-organisms.

Heal the Eyes: Walnut leaf tea is beneficial for eye irritations and conjunctivitis. It is also used in homeopathy to cure liver ailments and intestinal problems.

Laxative: During the 20th century, herbalists described the walnut leaf as one of the mildest and most effective laxatives available anywhere.

Stout, Massive Walnut Tree

Walnut trees can grow to become 60 feet tall – more than 20 meters! In some parts of France, walnut trees became 300 years old! In the southern parts of England, the trees grow vigorously and bear abundantly, when not injured by late frosts in the spring. Both male and female flowers appear on the tree in early spring before the leaves. A completely matured walnut tree can yield approximately 185 kg of nuts, but the average yield per tree is reported to be around 37 kg. My walnut tree hasn’t yielded close to this amount yet, but 5-10 kg of worm-free walnuts is not nothing!

Hands On

The best time to pick walnut leaves is in the early summer, in the month of Sivan (June) when they provide the best effect. Walnut tea may be prepared by boiling walnut leaves in water. This tea is used in baths, bandages as well as skin washes and compresses to cleanse the skin and get rid of infections.

Drying Walnut Leaves

Dry the leaves outdoors during warm, sunny weather, in half-shade, as leaves dried in the shade retain their color better than those dried in the sun and do not become as brittle. Spread the leaves in a single layer, preferably not touching. Turn the leaves occasionally during the drying process. All dried leaves should be packed away at once, in airtight, wooden or tin boxes in a dry place, otherwise they re-absorb moisture from the air. (I dry all plants simply by hanging them upside down on my porch).

Walnut Leave Tea
4 tsp dried leaves
1 cup water

1. Chop the walnut leaves.

2. Place them in a small pot and cover them with the water.

3. Simmer from 5-15 minutes depending on how strong you want the tea.

4. Drink 1 cup walnut tea a day in mouthful doses spread out throughout the day.

Bath Additive
Tannins found in walnut leaves cross-link with the proteins found in the cells coating the sweat glands. They prevent excessive sweat secretion, by cleansing the sweat pores and shrinking the sweat glands. Therefore, a footbath with walnut leaf tea is great for reducing perspiration. It also prevents and treats athlete’s foot as the steam distilled volatile oil fraction has demonstrated antifungal action (Nahrstedt et al., 1981). Walnut leaf footbath may treat even serious fungal infections.

1. Boil 4 cups dried leaves in 6 cups water for 45 minutes.

2. Add liquid to bath water.

3. For a footbath, reduce the amounts proportionately.

4. Soak body or feet.

The Rose – A Symbol of Love

Herbal Remedies from the Judean Hills
שׁוֹשַׁנָּה – Rose Petals – Rosaceae
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The Rose – A Symbol of Love

The rose is the undisputed Queen of Flowers. She wears her glorious crown with grace. The numerical value of שׁוֹשַׁנָּה/shoshanna – ‘rose’ is 661, the same numerical value as the name of Queen Esther. Rose was crowned the national flower of the United States in 1986. It is universally known as the flower of love. Its flowering softness is a sign of our loving relationships. Once, when I was away on our anniversary during my annual tour, a beautiful bouquet of red roses greeted me in Toronto with a loving note from my husband. I was moved to tears as I experienced how red roses are symbols of love felt at the deepest levels. Their color corresponds to desire and life force. Receiving red roses let me know that my husband is truly passionate about me, on all levels. His love promises to endure the test of time.

Roses Represents the Relationship of Love between G-d and Us

We are all familiar with the first part of the Torah verse that is an acronym for the month of Elul. Yet, the ending “who shepherds among the roses” is less well known:

ספר שיר השירים פרק ו פסוק ג אֲנִי לְדוֹדִי וְדוֹדִי לִי הָרֹעֶה בַּשּׁוֹשַׁנִּים:

“I am for my beloved and my Beloved is for me, Who shepherds among the roses”

(Song of Songs 6:3).

This ending is repeating a prior verse from Song of Songs, which also describes the relationship of love: 

ספר שיר השירים פרק ב פסוק טז דּוֹדִי לִי וַאֲנִי לוֹ הָרֹעֶה בַּשּׁוֹשַׁנִּים:

“My beloved is mine, and I am his, Who shepherds among the roses” (Song of Songs 2:16).

Just as roses represent love between people, it also denotes the deepest love between the Compassionate G-d and His people. Hashem wants a crown of roses from us. He wants a heart of softness. Therefore, a rose is also a symbol of teshuvah (return/repentance), when we return completely to His loving embrace. As long as we have the loving quality of roses, G-d leads us to the beautiful pastures of teshuvah. A diamond ring is worth much more, but gold, silver and diamonds are hard and rough, whereas roses are alive and vibrant. King David further connects roses with love:

ספר תהילים פרק מה פסוק א לַמְנַצֵּחַ עַל שֹׁשַׁנִּים לִבְנֵי קֹרַח מַשְׂכִּיל שִׁיר יְדִידֹת:

“For the conductor on shoshanim, of the sons of Korah, a maskil a song of loves” (Tehillim 45:1).

The Renewal and Mercy of the Rose

The Shoshanna teaches us to open our heart and learn soul lessons for our lives. “Hashem wants our heart” – that is roses. A fresh rose just about to bud is a powerful imagery. The new petals of the rose unfolding, signifies preserving the newness in our mitzvah observance. The challenge of being a rose is to be a source of renewal in our small world. We need to be fresh, vibrant and regard today as a brand new day, engaging in the mitzvot as if for the very first time and approaching our prayer book as though the first time we ever prayed. The Zohar opens with comparing the Jewish people to the rose:

“As a rose among the thorns, so is my beloved among the daughters” (Song of Songs 2:2). Who is the rose? This refers to Knesset Yisrael – the Collective soul roots of Israel – malchut (royalty). Just as a rose, which is found amidst the thorns, has within it the colors red and white, also Knesset Yisrael has within her both judgment and loving kindness. Just as a rose has thirteen petals, also Knesset Yisrael has within her thirteen paths of mercy that surround her from all sides (Zohar I, Intro. p. 1).

The thirteen petals of the rose correspond to the 13 midot of rachamim (mercy). We can emulate G-d in these paths, making ourselves conduits of mercy by being gracious and slow to anger. This way we can be “to my beloved,” and then “My Beloved is to me, leading us among the roses.” This is when we walk in Hashem’s path through the attributes of the 13 portals of treating others with compassion (Adapted from Shira Smiles).

שׁוֹשַׁנָּה/Shoshanna – Lily or Rose?

The word שׁוֹשַׁנָּה/Shoshanna comes from the word שֵׁש/shesh – ‘six,’ because it refers to a flower with six petals. It is called Shoshanna because it refers to the six directions in which the Shechina dwells (Sha’ar Ma’amarei Rashbi). Both the lily and the original uncultivated rose has six petals. King Solomon depicts the beautiful rose as standing in distinguishable contrast to its surrounding thorns:

ספר שיר השירים פרק ב פסוק ב כְּשׁוֹשַׁנָּה בֵּין הַחוֹחִים כֵּן רַעְיָתִי בֵּין הַבָּנוֹת:

“Like the שׁוֹשַׁנָּה/shoshanna among thorns, so is my beloved among the daughters”

(Song of Songs 2:2).

AS A SHOSHANNA BETWEEN THE THORNS - pricking her, nevertheless she her beauty and redness endures. Likewise is my beloved between the daughters. They tempt her to follow them in sin with other gods.  However, she stands steadfast in her faith (Rashi, Song of Songs 2:2).

This verse refers to our Matriarch, Rivkah, who grew up among the wicked (Midrash Bereishit Rabah 23:1); (Midrash Shir HaShirim Rabah 2:4).

The Jerusalem Bible translates שׁוֹשַׁנָּה/shoshanna as ‘lily,’ which possibly refers to השושן הצחור/Hashoshan Hatzachor – Lilium Cardidum. It grows in the forests of Carmel and Galilee. Its flowering starts at the beginning of the summer with several thorns. Thus, “The lily among thorns” is the big beautiful lily flower growing on a tall stalk that stands out from among the thorns of the land (Da’at Mikra). The following verse from the prophets supports that shoshanna refers to the lily: “I will be as the dew to Israel: he shall flower like the lily, and cast forth his roots like the Levanon” (Hoshea 14:6). Ibn Ezra explains that since the lily has thin roots attached to its bulb, the prophet needed to use the trees of Levanon as a metaphor for strong roots. This wouldn’t be necessary if the verse referred to the rose, since the rose is a tree with deep, strong roots.

In the Talmud and Midrash, the shoshanna (rose) is used as a symbol for the blood of a woman’s period. This seems to indicate that the shoshanna is blood red, a support that the shoshanna refers to the rose, rather than the lily, which is not known for being red. Likewise, Rambam holds that the shoshanim are red roses that emit a good fragrance (Rambam, Commentary on the Mishna, Shevi’it 7:6).  Malbim explains, “A rose among thorns” to refer to the rose that grows on a stalk full of thorns. Therefore, it is necessary that she lift her head above them, so that the thorns won’t prick her.

The Congregation of Israel is a Rose

The most delicate of flowers is not without thorny spiritual protection. The more you try to cut back a rosebush, the greater it blossoms. “For the conductor, upon shoshanim, of David” (Tehillim 69:1). “Upon Israel, who is compared to a shoshanna among the thorns- while the thorns pierce them, King David prays for them” (Rashi, Tehillim 69:1). Throughout history, the Jewish people have had to overcome many thorns, both from within and without. Our many enemies are repeatedly called, “thorns in your sides” (Bamidbar 33:55); (Yesha’yahu 11:14). Yet, in the end of days things will change, “No longer will the people of Israel have malicious neighbors who are painful briars and sharp thorns...” (Yechezkiel 28:24). The word שׁוֹשַׁנָּה/shoshanna is related to the word שנה שׁוֹנֶה/shoneh – ‘to change.’ The rose is called shoshanna because it has the ability to change from judgement to mercy symbolized by its harsh thorns on the one hand and its beautiful fragrant flower on the other. For this reason, the congregation of Israel is called a shoshanna, as we too vacillate between our holiness and impure shells. This is why the Zohar states that there are different kinds of shoshanim - just as a shoshanna among the thorns comes in both the red color of judgment and the white color of purity (Based on Sha’ar Ma’ameri Rashbi, Bereishit). A king had a cultivated orchard filled with figs, grapes, pomegranates and apples. He handed it over to a land tenant while he was away. When the king returned and checked what was done with the orchard, he found it full of thorns and thistles. When he was about to chop down the orchard, he noticed one beautiful rose among the thorns. He breathed in its fragrance and his soul was revived. The king then decided to save the entire orchard for the sake of this rose. Similarly, the entire world was only created for the sake of Torah. After 26 generations, G-d checked into His world, to see what was done in it, but He found it full of perversion from The Generation of Enosh, The Flood and The Tower of Babylon. He then brought a weed-whacker to cut it down, but stopped when He saw one ‘rose’ – referring to the Children of Israel. He breathed in its fragrance when He gave them the Ten Commandments. His soul was revived when they said, “We will do and we will listen.” Then the Almighty decided, for the sake of this rose, that the orchard will be saved – in the merit of Israel accepting the Torah. (Midrash Vayikra Rabbah 23:3).

The Rose is Associated with Redemption

Just as the rose exists for the sake of its fragrance, likewise the righteous are created only in order to redeem Israel… (Midrash Vayikra Rabbah 23:6). The redemption of Israel from Egypt was like picking a rose from between the thorns, as it states, “G-d ventured to go and take for himself a nation from the midst of another nation…” (Devarim 4:34). Since Israel was so assimilated, they would never have been redeemed from Egypt according to strict judgment… (Midrash Vayikra Rabbah 23:2). …Just like the rose, when it is placed between the thorns, the northern wind pushes it towards the south and the thorn stings it; the southern wind pushes it towards the north and the thorn stings it; nevertheless, its heart is directed straight Above. Similarly, Israel - although they are dried up, suffering and under forced labor; their heart is directed towards their Father in heaven… (Midrash Vayikra Rabbah 23:5). G-d said to them, “It all depends on you. Just as this rose blooms and its heart is towards the above, likewise, you must do teshuvah before me, and direct your hearts towards Me, Above. Then I will bring the redeemer…" (Midrash Tehillim, Mizmor 45). On our way to redemption, we must learn from the rose, that doesn’t succumb to the thorns, to be steadfast in overcoming obstacles. We also need to be strong against the pressure of other nations and their cultures, like the rose that is not pushed by the wind but remains straight. We, too, must turn to Above without being influenced by the winds of pressure, including the various pressures of the times.

Medicinal Properties of Rose Petals

Rose petals are sweet, slightly bitter and warming. They can be used as a carminative, stimulant, and emmenagogue. They affect the liver and spleen. The most fragrant roses are used in medicine. Those with a deep red color are more medicinal and astringent than other roses. Roses are used in face toners, perfumes and are one of the most effective anti-ageing ingredients. Ayurvedic physicians use the petals in poultices to treat skin wounds and inflammations. European herbalists recommend dried rose petal tea for headache, dizziness, mouth sores, and menstrual cramps. Rose petals dry up, mucous discharges, relieve constrictive feelings of the chest and abdomen (stuck liver chi), harmonize the blood and irregular menstruation and relieve pain caused by blood stagnation. Hippocrates recommended rose flowers mixed with oil for diseases of the uterus. Rose oil can also reduce high cholesterol levels. The leaves are a mild, laxative. Rose hips are a significant source of vitamin C.

Rose in Aromatherapy

In aromatherapy, essential rose oil is very precious. It is a favorite tool for aroma therapists because of its versatility. Oil or Otto of Rose was discovered between 1582-1612 at the wedding feast of the princess Nour Djihan with the Prince of Akbar. A canal circling the entire gardens was dug and filled with rose water. The heat of the sun separated the water from the essential rose oil. It was skimmed off and found to be exquisite perfume. It is necessary to distil about 10,000 lbs. of roses to obtain 1 lb. of oil; 30 roses to make one drop of otto, and 60,000 roses to make one oz. of otto. No wonder pure essential rose oil is the most expensive of all essential oils.

The inherent Connection between the Torah and Medicinal Properties of the Rose Roses strengthen the blood, the source of vitality that keeps us strong to overcome obstacles in life. Both the People of Israel and the Torah are compared to the rose, because they are the blood and vitality of the world, keeping our planet going while saving it from destruction. The three properties of rose: carminative, stimulant and emmenagogue (mover of blood) are all connected with keeping things moving to overcome stagnation. Carminative – the power to digest – moves food along its journey through the body. Stimulant perks us up and imbues us with strength to keep moving. Emmenagogue keeps the blood moving and revitalizes us to bring constant renewal. This dynamic quality of the rose fits in with the meaning of שׁוֹשַׁנָּה/shoshanna from the word שׁוֹנֶה/shoneh – ‘to change,’ and the power of teshuvah, which we learn from the rose.  

Healing Properties of Rose Water

Rose water has natural antiseptic, astringent, anti-bacterial and antiviral qualities. Its scent also alleviates depression and tension. The earliest English herbalists recommended rose water for the complexion and heart. Rose water was successfully used to cure all kinds of ailments, such as trembling, constipation, drunkenness, skin and throat infections and insomnia.

Mood-lifter: Rose Water is soothing for the nerves. It treats conditions of stress: nervous tension, peptic ulcers and heart disease. It is also a mild sedative and anti-depressant. Use rose water as an air freshener to balance the spirit. Spray some rose water on your face at the end of a tiring day and feel all the tensions and troubles melt away! With its pleasant aroma, rose water spray enhances mood and is cooling and toning.

Skin-Healer: Rosewater is renowned as a gentle skin softener that enhances the glow and appearance of the skin. Its nourishing, tonic, soothing and hydrating qualities are useful for all skin types, especially mature, dry and sensitive skin. It helps moisturize the skin at bedtime, or before and after exposure to the sun. Rosewater stimulates regeneration and has a calming effect in acne and sunburns. It is also helpful for inflammation and reducing the visibility of broken capillaries.

Hands On

Rose water is gently cleansing and maintains the pH balance. You can spritz your face with pure rose water for facial toning, especially in summer.

Rose Water

1. Pick rose petals and place them in a glass bowl rather than a plastic bag.

2. Fill a pot with the rose petals to the brim.

3. Add as much water in the pot as can fit, leaving only enough space so it won’t boil over.

4. Simmer while covered on the lowest heat for about 40 minutes.

5. Store in the refrigerator for up until 1 month.

Rosewater Lemonade

1. Make a pitcher of lemonade with fresh lemons and honey.

2. Add ¼ cup rose water!

3. Enjoy on a hot summer day!

Rosewater Cold Cream

9 teaspoons of rosewater

9 teaspoons of almond oil

2 teaspoons of beeswax

20 drops rose otto essential oils

1. Combine the oil and beeswax in your double boiler (or in a stainless steel or glass vessel inside a pan filled with water) on low heat. Wait until everything is melted.

2. At the same time, put the rosewater in another double boiler on low heat so that it reaches the same temperature as the oils.

3. Once the oil and beeswax are melted, take them off the heat and start whipping with an electric mixer on low speed for a few minutes; while adding the rosewater spoon by spoon.

4. After a few minutes, the liquid will soon turn into a cream as you progressively add the water.

5. Once it has reached a creamy consistency, add the essential oils and blend.

6. Scoop the cream into sterile glass jars and allow to cool at room temperature before closing with a lid.

Rose Vinegar

Rose vinegar treats headaches, especially those brought on by heat for example by the sun.

1. Gather fresh rose petals.

2. Heat some distilled vinegar until it begins to simmer. Then pour into a jar filled with petals, all the way to the top.

3. Cover the jar with a layer of plastic wrap, and then a lid. Let sit in a cool, dark place for a few weeks or until the desired color is reached.