Many folkloric scholars have drawn attention to the fact that the Tree of Life is, in actuality, one of several fascinating deviations that come from a vaster and more generalized “sacred tree” trope. Taking this into account, it’s little wonder that trees have for so long been viewed as synonymous with the essence of life itself. In many belief systems, the significance of the tree lies not only with the growth itself, but the ecosystem it provides for protected creatures or unseen spirits held in high regard, such as rare insects or forest sprites. Shedding their leaves in the winter months and bursting forth with verdant new growth in the summer, deciduous trees are frequently used in art to represent rebirth and hope, whereas coniferous trees, with their stubborn sameness than carries them through year after year, are often associated with longevity and resilience of spirit. Gustav Klimt's 1909 painting "The Tree of Life." The Tree of Life symbol has been used and adapted by just about every culture. As such, trees have been given powerful and deeply sacred meanings by countless different peoples over the course of history. There are few places on earth that one could imagine traveling to without encountering a tree native to that soil, be it a majestic oak or a powerful, bristling palm. But where, we come to wonder, did this striking symbol first stem from, and when?įirstly, we recognize that it is impossible to discuss the global nature of the Tree of Life without noting (if somewhat redundantly) the ubiquitous nature of trees in our world. It appears on clothing and jewelry, is used as a narrative device in literature and film (taken both metaphorically and literally in equal measure), and brings a sense of stability and power to those who invoke the Tree when in need. Unbroken band which represents eternity, the Tree of Life is as popular today as it has ever been. Often depicted as a deep-rooted, broad-crowned tree encircled by an Thanks to the seeds that are distributed in its fruit, the tree can never truly die, and so it is fitting that one of the most prominent symbols from old Celtic traditions-and, in truth, the traditions of the populated world at large-is the Tree of Life, an image that has been closely associated with immortality and abundance since ancient times. ![]() There are few natural symbols out there that are so rich and diverse as that of the tree, representative (at least on one level) of the never-ending cycle of existence, as well as the ups and downs of life that come along with it.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |