Bible Dictionary
ONIONS
Onions were among the foods from Egypt for which the Israelites longed in the wilderness. The onion was widely cultivated and valued as food in Egypt and Syria.
Definition
Onions are edible plants cultivated as food. In the biblical account they are remembered as one of the delicacies available in Egypt.
Biblical Usage
The Israelites longed for onions, along with other foods, while in the wilderness. Their remembrance expressed dissatisfaction with their circumstances and desire for the foods of Egypt.
Historical Background
The onion is identified as Allium cepa and is described as cultivated throughout Syria and Egypt. The entry notes that it remained a favored food in the Orient.
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>un'-yunz (betsalim; krommuon): One of the delicacies of Egypt for which the children of Israel pined in the wilderness (Nu 11:5). The onion, alllium cepa (Natural Order Liliaceae), is known in Arabic as bucal and is cultivated all over Syria and Egypt; it appears to be as much a favorite in the Orient today as ever.</p>