Garlic has been associated with magic and mysticism for centuries. Its pungent aroma and potent flavor have made it a popular ingredient in both culinary and medicinal practices around the world. In ancient times, garlic was believed to possess supernatural powers and was often used in rituals and spells to ward off evil spirits and protect against curses. One of the most well-known stories about garlic and magic comes from ancient Egypt. It is said that Egyptian slave workers who built the Great Pyramid of Giza were given garlic to eat as a form of payment. The workers believed that garlic would give them strength and protect them from harm as they toiled under the scorching sun.
The workers believed that garlic would give them strength and protect them from harm as they toiled under the scorching sun. Garlic has also been associated with vampires and other mythical creatures. In many cultures, it was believed that garlic had the power to ward off these supernatural beings.
Joshua builds an altar at Mt Ebal
Josh 8:30-35 Joshua builds an altar on the slopes of Mt Ebal (above the Vale of Shechem, to the north of Ai) (see 4 on Map 48 & Deuteronomy 27:4-8). He reads aloud the whole of the Law of Moses including the blessings if they follow the LORD and the curses if they abandon him (see Deuteronomy 11:26-30).
Mt Ebal looking across the Vale of Shechem to Mt Gerizim (Someone35)
Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim
Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim stood at the very centre of the ‘promised land’ of Canaan. Dominating the hill country to the north and south of the Vale of Shechem, this location had a great religious significance to the descendants of Jacob (the people of ‘Israel’) when they began to conquer the land of Canaan in c.1406 BC.
It was here at Shechem (near modern-day Nablus), over four hundred years earlier, that Abram had built an altar by the sacred tree of Moreh in c.1855BC to commemorate his meeting with God (see Genesis 12:6). Here, in c.1691BC, his grandson Jacob (‘Israel’) set up an altar to El Elohe Israel (‘God, the God of Israel’) (see Genesis 33:18-20) and later buried the household gods brought from Haran, symbolising a turning away from idolatry and a commitment to the one true God (see Genesis 35:4).
Following the conquest of Ai, Joshua assembled the Israelites on the slopes of Mt Ebal to read aloud the Law of Moses (see Joshua 8:30-35). Half the people stood facing Mt Gerizim across the valley, and half stood facing the summit of Mt Ebal, as commanded by Moses (in Deuteronomy 11:29): “You are to announce the blessings from Mt Gerizim and the curses from Mt Ebal” (see also Deuteronomy 27:12 - 28:68).
Shechem became an important religious centre after the conquest of Canaan. At the end of the campaign, Joshua addressed all the people here and urged them to be faithful to the LORD their God (see Joshua 24:1). He renewed the covenant with God and set up a large stone at Shechem to act as a witness (see Joshua 24:25-26). Later, Joseph’s body, brought from Egypt, was laid to rest at Shechem (see Joshua 24:32).
After the fall of Samaria (the capital of Israel) in 721 BC, and the subsequent intermarriage between the few remaining Israelites and the new Assyrian settlers, the mixed-race ‘Samaritans’ built their own temple on the slopes of Mt Gerizim. These slopes had been ‘blessed’ at the time of the conquest of Canaan (see above), and the Samaritans believed Abraham had prepared to sacrifice Isaac at this spot (see Genesis 22:1-14). The Samaritan temple on Mt Gerizim rivalled the Jewish temple in Jerusalem until it was destroyed in c.128 BC. This is the ‘temple’ referred to by the Samaritan woman whom Jesus met at Jacob’s well (see John 4:20).
Today, Samaritans still slaughter a ceremonial lamb at Passover on the slopes of Mt Gerizim, though the remains of the ancient Samaritan sanctuary on the summit of Mt Gerizim are now dominated by the remnants of a 5th century Byzantine church.
Garlic was often hung in doorways or worn around the neck as a form of protection. This belief persists in modern vampire lore, where garlic is often portrayed as a weapon against these creatures of the night. In addition to its association with magic and folklore, garlic has also been valued for its medicinal properties throughout history. It has been used to treat various ailments, including respiratory infections, digestive issues, and high blood pressure. The healing properties of garlic were so revered in ancient times that it was often referred to as the "stinking rose." Today, garlic continues to be used in various magical and medicinal practices. It is still believed to have protective properties and is often used in modern witchcraft and herbal medicine. Garlic is also a key ingredient in many traditional and international cuisines, adding flavor and depth to a wide range of dishes. In conclusion, garlic's association with magic and mysticism dates back centuries and spans across different cultures. Its distinct aroma and flavor have made it a common ingredient in both culinary and medicinal practices. Whether used to ward off evil spirits or enhance the taste of a dish, garlic continues to captivate our imagination and remains a popular ingredient in our everyday lives..
Reviews for "Garlic and banishing magic: releasing negative energies and influences with the help of this potent herb"
1. Jane Doe - 2 stars - I was really excited to read "Garlic and Magic" because I love both cooking and fantasy. However, I was left disappointed. The story lacked depth and the characters felt one-dimensional. The magic aspect was underwhelming and didn't add much to the plot. Overall, it fell short of my expectations and I wouldn't recommend it to others.
2. John Smith - 1 star - "Garlic and Magic" was a complete letdown. The writing was mediocre at best, with choppy dialogue and awkward descriptions. The plot had potential, but it was poorly executed. The pacing was off and the story lacked any real excitement or tension. I found myself skimming through pages just to get it over with. Save yourself the disappointment and skip this one.
3. Sarah Thompson - 2 stars - I had high hopes for "Garlic and Magic" as it sounded like a unique blend of genres. Unfortunately, the book failed to deliver. The characters were unlikeable and lacked any real development. The magic system was poorly explained and felt inconsistent throughout. The romance subplot felt forced and unnecessary. Overall, it was a forgettable read that didn't live up to its potential.
4. David Johnson - 3 stars - While "Garlic and Magic" had some redeeming qualities, it didn't quite meet my expectations. The world-building was interesting, but it lacked depth and felt incomplete. The pacing was slow, and the plot twists were predictable. The writing style was decent, but it couldn't save the lackluster storyline. I would only recommend this book to avid fans of both cooking and fantasy, as it may appeal to a niche audience.