Garden of Eden
The Garden of Eden is a mythical paradise and the place where God created the first man Adam and first woman Eve. Life was filled with abundance. Adam and Eve lived in perfect harmony… then came the apple. In the story Eve was tempted to eat an apple from the tree of knowledge. This fruit had been forbidden by god thus the apple is regarded as forbidden fruit.
Forbidden Fruit
Eating the forbidden fruit was an act of disobedience. Adam and Eve were cast out of the Garden of Eden. Sin was introduced into the world and downfall of humanity began. The story of Adam and Eve serves as a reminder of how far we have fallen from the grace of god and ideal state of humankind.
This biblical tale should not be considered a historical nor scientific event but rather an explanation for the existence of pain hardship and mortality. As descendants of the first human beings, we hold on to the desire to get back to the garden and exist in a state of perfect bliss!
Figs and Female Fertility
Another fruit that also holds significant symbolism is the fig. Gender identity and female fertility has long been associated with figs. The fig, with its voluptuous shape and luscious interior is the perfect symbol of femininity and the life-giving power of women.
The fig, as a representation of female fertility, adds a compelling layer to the story of Adam and Eve. It suggests that Eve’s decision to partake in the forbidden fruit was not solely an act of disobedience but also a recognition of her own power as a woman. By choosing to eat the fruit, Eve embraced her own agency and the potential for growth, both physically and metaphorically.
While the fig is not explicitly mentioned in the story of Adam and Eve, figs were often seen as a symbol of wisdom and enlightenment, connecting them to the pursuit of knowledge that led to the fall of Adam and Eve.
Fighting the Good Fight
From equal rights to gender recognition strong women have long been fighting the good fight on behalf of other women. As a teenager I was inspired by the Helen Reddy song “I am woman” because it made me feel good about myself. Women were strong! capable! resiliant! This song became the perfect anthem for the women’s liberation movement in the 1970’s. I count my blessings as a woman who has inherited the freedoms and opporunities that can turn dreams into reality.
International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day falls on March 8th. It is day to celebrate women and is not specific to any country, group, or organization. International Womens Day will be celebrated in various ways, including rallies, conferences, cultural events. Women will gather in their communities to speak about the things that matter to them. Let’s acknowledge the power of women as influencers because the future belongs to our children so teach them well.
Crafting a Fig Cocktail:
Are you ready to embrace the symbolism of figs and their connection to female fertility with a delightful fig cocktail that pays homage to the story of Eve. This cocktail is a sinfully delicious twist on whiskey sour. This drink combines sweet earthy flavours of whiskey, figs, salted caramel, spice syrup and lemon juice with just a dash of bitters.
Figgy Caramel Sour Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 fresh figs, sliced
- 60ml bourbon whiskey (makers mark)
- 15ml calted caramel liqueur (old smokey)
- 30ml fresh lemon juice
- 10ml chocola simple syrup
- dash Angostura Bitters
- egg white or 6-8 drops wonder foam
- ice cubes
- fig slices, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the sliced figs until they release their juices.
- Add bourbon, lemon juice, liqueur and simple syrup and bitters to the shaker
- Shake vigorously with ice for about 15 seconds OR
- Option to dry shake with egg white first then add ice and shake again for a frothy feminine cocktail
- Double strain the cocktail into a glass filled with ice (for step 3) or coup glass (step 4)
- Garnish with a slice of fig.
When you are ready, raise a glass to celebrate strong enterprising women. May we know them May we be them May we raise them- Anon.