Biblical Food and Herbs Series Part 8: Onions

We remember the fish, which we did eat in Egypt freely; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlick:  - Numbers 11:5

Traditions and cultures worldwide include onions in various dishes. This is not only for their full persistent flavor that ranges from pungent to sweet, but also because of many studies that continue to testify to their numerous health benefits. 

---

They are highly recommended in the prevention of cardiovascular disease, infections, and cancer.  Multiple studies have shown protective and reductive effects in various specific types of cancer including breast, brain, stomach, lung, bladder, colorectal and ovarian cancers. Onions are also a powerful anti-inflammatory which make them extremely helpful with asthma, heart disease and arthritis. This really does not scratch the surface of onions because so many studies are still pending. We will continue to add links on these.

The key vitamins and nutrients include calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin c, vitamin b1 and b6, vitamin a, and vitamin e. Also, I must add a few of onion’s powerful, health-effective phytonutrients like allicin, quercetin, and allyl cysteine

Our text scripture above is the only verse that mentions them by name, but after leaving Egypt for the Promised Land, onions were still among the most craved foods that the Israelites missed during their time of hardship and challenges in the wilderness. The problem was that they “lusted” on these types of longings and it eventually caused them to even question “Why did we leave Egypt anyway."  So because they complained and focused on what they used to have in slavery more than what they were promised to have in freedom, the anger of the Lord was against them. Yet, before judging them, be mindful that most of us have had ‘cravings’ for things that we have been delivered from. Many talk about the “good ol’ days” without considering the full picture of how things were. Just remember that this is enough to affect your faith’s effectiveness.

The Hebrew word for onion is “betsel” which literally means “to peel” referring to its many layers. From this aspect, onions were a sign of eternal life because of their seemingly endless layers. Yet, not only layers meaning eternal life, but also meaning revelation and illumination. The scriptures themselves often speak on several different levels of understanding, including historically, prophetically, and to the reader personally from the same verses. 

Lastly, science tells us that cut onions produce sulfenic acid which decomposes and then dissipates through the air and when it reaches the eye it reacts with the water to form a mild solution of sulfuric acid. The sulfuric acid irritates the nerve endings in the eyes, making them sting. The tear glands then produce tears in response to this irritation, to dilute and flush out the irritant. Many when speaking about this process say that this is how onions make us “cry”. Yet, we know that there is a vast difference between tears and a cry. Tears do not make a cry in the same way that religion does not make a relationship with God. Tears do not make a cry in the same way that fervor for God is not necessarily faith in God. External actions of goodness are not proof of a true walk with God, but they should follow one. May His blessings of good health and favor fall upon you in the name of Yahshua (Jesus) His son.

Onions—A global benefit to health, Phytotherapy Research, Volume 16, Issue 7, November 2002 
Onions for your health. National Onion Association 2008. 1 March 2008
Prescription for Dietary Wellness, Phyllis A. Balch 
www.kingtutshop.com/Egyptian-Herb/onion.htm
Strong's Concordance - #H1211