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After concentrating on the Exodus, we go to Southeast Asia, to discover a sacred plant for the local populations and then also entered the Koran: ginger.
Distant origins
The origins of ginger are to be found in South-East Asia, regions where this plant has always been cultivated by local populations, so much so that there are no wild ones. It became fundamental in the development of the Austronesian populations, so much so that it was used to bless the boats, an almost sacred means for these places. Precisely because of its central role in this culture, it was exported to every corner of the lands they colonized, becoming a spice symbol of the entire region.
Through trade with Asia and the Middle East, this plant became known all over the world, soon becoming one of the most coveted goods of the spice trade. Since ancient times, in particular, its ability to enhance flavors and prevent symptoms of nausea and diarrhea are appreciated, evils that, if left untreated, can often lead to death.
Fount of Paradise
It is no coincidence that ginger is present in a source of Paradise called Salsabil, a clear reminder of its incredible medical properties. The mention of this spice is very particular especially if you think about how Islam developed in such places.
For the uninitiated, the nation with the highest number of Muslims is Indonesia, a nation that most of all represents the Austronesian populations both in terms of inhabitants and history. The fact that a plant already sacred to these places is mentioned in Paradise can only have been a small sign of the totality of Qur’anic revelation, as well as a good omen once these peoples knew Islam.
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