THE REAL MEANINGS OF THE TREE OF LIFE SYMBOL
The Tree of Life is a universal symbol of sacred origin. It has positively influenced many cultures and religions over time. The symbolism of the tree is rich in meanings. It represents the cycle of life, happiness, knowledge, spirituality, family, strength, rebirth, and much more.
When you finish reading this article, you will know exactly what a tree of life is and all of its incredible meanings. You can decide for yourself if this symbol is fitting for you. Enough talk; let’s get to the heart of the matter!
1. DEFINITION OF THE TREE OF LIFE
The tree of life has had a central place in many cultures and has been since the dawn of time. Even today this symbol is found in the sacred texts of the main religions of the world.
This is the reason why there are endless types of trees of life. Each civilization has chosen as its reference the tree that it considers the most important, the most emblematic tree of its place of life.
We have identified several kinds of trees of life according to different religious traditions:
•Sycamore and acacia in Ancient Egypt
• Oak, birch, and poplar for the ancient Celts
• Ash or yew for the Vikings
• Pine, peach, and plum for the Chinese
• The olive tree, the palm tree, the vine, and the fir tree for Christians
• The almond tree, the kermes oak, and the olive tree for the Jews
• Date palm and banana for Muslims
• The salt and the fig tree of the pagodas for Buddhists
• Ashoka and Banyan for Hindus
There are, however, three characteristics common to all trees of life:
• Long and strong roots
• An excellent and vigorous trunk
• Branches and leaves stretching towards the sky
The three parts of the tree have particular meanings. Let’s take a closer look:
1. The roots symbolize the past, our experience. They are the connection to Mother Earth, our ancestors, and the spirit world.
2. The trunk and the bark represent our present strengths, weaknesses, and life path.
3. The branches symbolize the future, our goals, and the search for spirituality and connection with the divine and eternal life.
A tree of life is usually represented as a large tree with long and persistent roots, a strong trunk, and branches slender towards the sky. The roots and the branches unite to create a unique circle that brings balance and harmony.
So that you can enjoy the magic of the tree of life from home, we provide you with two images of trees of life to download free of charge in PDF format: 🌳
• A free printable tree of life symbol in black and white
2. SYMBOLICS OF THE TREE OF LIFE
The tree of life has exceptional symbolism. According to the different cultures and religions that have adopted it worldwide, it means other things.
What these many meanings have in common is their always positive connotation.
Here we present the main qualities commonly associated with the tree of life:
· Interconnection Symbol
· Symbol Of Life And Fertility
· Sign Of Growth And Strength
· Symbol Of Your Individuality
· Symbol Of Renaissance And Immortality
· Symbol Of Peace
We will explain the primary meanings of the tree of life in more detail so that you have a better idea of how it came to be such a powerful emblem.
2.1. INTERCONNECTION SYMBOL
The Trees of Life commonly represent the interconnection of everything in the universe. They symbolize unity and serve as a reminder that you are never alone or isolated, but rather that you are deeply connected to the world around you and that you depend on it for your ability to grow and prosper.
The tree has roots that go deep into the ground, the underworld. The leaves and branches extend towards the sky, recognizing the divine Father Sun and accepting his energy which he transforms into food. He acknowledges his connection to Mother Earth goddess and gets to be nurtured by her.
2.2. SYMBOL OF LIFE AND FERTILITY
The tree of life is, above all, a symbol of life. It can represent the very essence of our existence and refers us to the perpetual cycle of life.
First, it reminds us that we are deeply connected to the world around us and that we need it to nourish us and thrive.
On the other hand, like human beings, the origin of a tree is a seed. His roots unite him with the Earth he depends on to thrive, just as people need their mothers to be born and grow.
Once it reaches adulthood, it reproduces through the seeds which contain the fruits it produces in quantity. The fruitfulness of the sources will give life to other trees of the same species and will succeed it when it dies. The cycle of life is thus complete.
2.3. SYMBOL OF GROWTH AND STRENGTH
A sapling begins with shallow roots that sink and grow stronger over time. The branches start as tiny buds and extend upwards, reaching the sky and the sun. The trunk thickens, and the bark protects it.
Like this tree, a person grows stronger over time and strives to gain more excellent knowledge and new experiences.
Fig tree, acacia, palm tree, birch, maple, oak … all sacred trees inspire regeneration, longevity, and even eternity.
2.4. SYMBOL OF YOUR INDIVIDUALITY
The Tree of Life symbolizes everyone’s individuality, as trees are all unique, and their branches grow in different places and directions. It represents an individual’s personal growth into an extraordinary human being, as different experiences shape him into who he is.
Over time, trees acquire unique characteristics as the branches break off as new branches grow. The different weather conditions they face allow them to remain solid and hardy.
It’s a metaphor for how people grow and change throughout their lives and how their unique experiences shape them and enhance their individuality.
2.5. SYMBOL OF RENAISSANCE AND IMMORTALITY
The tree of life symbolizes rebirth, as the trees shed their leaves and appear to be dead during their winter hibernation period, but new buds appear, and fresh leaves unfold in the spring. Thus, the tree of life symbolizes a new start in life, positive energy, good health, and a bright future.
The tree of life symbolizes resurrection and immortality because even as the tree ages, it bears seeds that contain its very essence. In this way, the tree becomes immortal. It is a perpetual cycle of life.
2.6. SYMBOL OF PEACE
Trees have always evoked a sense of tranquility and serenity, so it’s no surprise that the Tree of Life is also a symbol of peace and relaxation. Trees have a calming presence when they stand, still, their leaves flapping in the breeze. The Tree of Life serves as a reminder for the unique and relaxing feeling one gets from trees.
Tree symbol of peace; the olive tree also symbolizes victory, strength, and loyalty. On the occasion of a birth or a wedding, a small olive tree can be offered and will become the timeless witness and a memorable memory of this celebration.
3. ORIGIN OF THE TREE OF LIFE
The origin of the tree of life symbol is ancient.
The oldest known evidence of the representation of the tree of life has been found in Domuztepe in southeastern Turkey. This site was a human settlement from the Neolithic period belonging to the Halaf culture (6100–5500 BC). Archaeologists have uncovered several vases and other pottery with the pattern of pine.
The pine is a tree that resists the winter cold very well and has the particularity of having great longevity. This tree of life was associated with a well-established system of religious beliefs and practices. These artifacts were found in burials that are concluded to connect this sacred tree and funeral rites.
Emerging from what is today called the fertile crescent (cradle of society), other civilizations adopted the tree of life. This is how we find representations of the tree of life among the Assyrians and Babylonians.
The tree of life spread worldwide thanks to the Persians, Greeks, and Egyptians from that moment on.
The origin of the tree of life, you will understand, is ancient. Many cultures and religions have assimilated it, and each of them has brought characteristics and values that have enriched the myth of the tree of life.
4. THE TREE OF LIFE IN MYTHOLOGY AND RELIGION
We are going to explain the different roles of the tree of life symbol in mythology and religion.
It has always been attributed to sacred, magical, esoteric, or spiritual powers, inspiring many cults, rituals, and artistic representations. It is, for this reason, one of the most famous and widespread symbols in the world today.
4.1. EGYPTIAN MYTHOLOGY
Among the Egyptians, we can name two main trees of life. Both are intimately linked to rebirth and immortality. The first was the acacia. This sacred tree with rot-proof wood would have given birth to the first gods of the Egyptian Pantheon.
It is particularly associated with the mysteries of the God of Osiris, protector of royalty. Killed by the God of chaos Seth, he is often depicted seated at the foot of an acacia tree to accomplish his resurrection from the dead. Indeed, the roots of this tree helped it to regenerate itself thanks to its nourishing sap.
The second was a sycamore. This species of fig tree which has abundant shade, was associated with the sky goddess Nut. In many representations, we observe the goddess emerging from the branches of this tree.
Nut’s mission was to protect the Earth with his body, like a celestial vault. According to the myth, she swallowed the sun (the God Ra) every night and delivered it every morning to humans to benefit from their kind energy.
In this heavenly garden sat a sycamore tree. The goddess who welcomed the deceased under this tree, sometimes accompanied by the goddess Hathor, offered them food and drink to ensure their regeneration and the longed-for eternity in the Hereafter.
4.2. CELTIC MYTHOLOGY: THE CRANN BETHADH
The tree of life among the Celts had a primordial place.
For the Celtic people, it is a symbol of strength, stability, wisdom, and longevity. The Celts revered nature and trees because they provided them with everything they needed to survive (food, shelter, heat, raw material for creating weapons and other tools, etc.).
They cleared the forest with each new establishment but scrupulously guarded a majestic tree in the middle of the village, often an oak, which they called Crann Bethadh.
This sacred tree served as a meeting place. The village assemblies and rituals were held around the tree. They believed that you could render an enemy helpless if you cut down their tree of life.
They worshiped trees because they considered them to be their ancestors.
The trees had magical characteristics and were gateways between the human world and the underworld (or spirits). The Druids were the only ones able to communicate and decipher the tree’s messages.
The Celtic tree of life is often drawn with roots and branches that unite to create a circle, symbolizing union. We add the famous Celtic knots or endless knots to this image, representing the infinite cycle of life.
4.3. NORTHERN MYTHOLOGY: YGGDRASIL
In Norse mythology, there was also a tree of life named Yggdrasil, the World Axis. The Yggdrasil is a creation of Odin, the supreme Viking god. Its name means Odin’s horse in Old Norse. This world tree at the center of the universe divided the world into nine very different realms. It is often a giant green ash tree with three floors: celestial, intermediate, and terrestrial.
Each floor contained three realms, each supported by an intricate web of world tree branches. The Yggdrasil drew its strength from three roots: Life, Destiny, and Wisdom (the three nodes). Gods, humans, elves, giants, and other fantastic creatures, coexist in the world tree, but their respective rivalries will inevitably lead them to Ragnarök. This ultimate battle will destroy the Yggdrasil and the various worlds. The rebirth that ensues is directly linked to the cosmic cycles and the eternal restarting.
4.4. CHINESE MYTHOLOGY: THE KIEN MOU
Kien-Mou or even Jian-Mu is the name given by the Chinese to their world tree. It means “upright wood” and can unite by its roots and branches, Heaven and Earth. Symbol of wisdom, thanks to his divine power, he played the mediator between these two very distinct spheres. He thus achieves the connection between the world of the dead (the nine sources) and the world of the gods (the nine heavens).
Kien-MoU establishes a link with yin and yang, another fundamental concept in Chinese philosophy. This tree, firmly anchored in the ground and with its branches that rise towards the sky, ensures the fluidity of energy exchanges between humans and the whole universe to guarantee the balance of qi or vital breath.
4.5. CHRISTIANITY
Genesis is the book that tells the story of the creation of the world and the first couple of humans.
He explains that Adam and Eve originally lived in harmony and abundance in the Garden of Eden. Inside it, there were two trees:
· The tree of life, source of eternal life and immortality
· The tree of the knowledge of good and evil, the symbol of the wisdom of God
They could taste all the delicious fruits of the trees in the garden. The only instruction God had given the couple was never to eat the forbidden fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
Alas, the serpent tempted Eve with the fruit of this sacred tree by promising her that they would be equal with God. Eve, in turn, gave Adam the fruit to taste (a sin of pride). God got angry at their disobedience and condemned men to work for food and made them mortal.
He drove them out of Heaven for good to prevent them from eating any fruit from the Tree of Life that could have made them immortal again.
The tree of knowledge also represents complete knowledge to which only God has access. He is the only one with sufficient clairvoyance to distinguish good from evil. Leaving this power in the hands of humans would be a fatal mistake because they would abuse this immense freedom.
Furthermore, it was long believed that the tree that triggered original sin was an apple tree, but it is clear that there is no explicit reference to this tree in the Bible.
4.6. ISLAM
We find in the Qur’an many references to trees that serve as allegories to make the faithful understand ideas or concepts which are beyond human comprehension. Trees are living proof of the Creator’s omnipotence. The holy text of the Muslims specifies that the passage of earthly life is temporary and the existence of eternal life in the Hereafter.
The righteous will go to Heaven, described as a fabulous garden with trees that protect them with their beneficial shade and branches filled with abundant fruit. The most imposing tree in Paradise is called Toubâ. It is a miraculous tree that contains all the fruits of creation and can nourish the souls of all believers.
In Hell, there is also a wonderful tree, known as Zakqum, capable of creating fruit. According to several verses of Sura Sâffât, and unlike the Toubâ tree, the fruits of this one are very bitter and hot as molten metal. The unjust are forced to eat it, and it causes them horrible suffering.
The Muslim tree of life is an immortal tree associated with eternity and redemption.
4.7. JUDAISM
The tree of life, or the sefirot tree, is a mystical or esoteric concept resulting from the kabbalistic current. Kabbalah, unlike Torah, which represents public law, must be considered the secret way to reach God. We can regard this tree as a symbol of wisdom, knowledge, and eternity. The tree of life attempts to explain Divine Creation as a whole. This includes the human being but also the cosmos and even the laws of the universe. It is composed of the ten sefirot (emanations in Hebrew) united among themselves, allowing the divine flow.
This tree lends itself to two possible readings:
1. A top-down reading: The manifestation that God is present in all things and that he lavishes his creative energy.
2. An ascending reading: The man voluntarily tries to transcend himself to come closer to God.
4.8. BUDDHISM
In Buddhism, the tree of life is where the young Prince Siddhartha Gautama attained spiritual enlightenment, thus becoming the enlightened Buddha.
According to Buddhist tradition, the young prince decides to leave the comfort of his palace and leads a life of asceticism at the age of 29. He then decides to meditate at the foot of a pagoda fig tree (also called banyan tree or pipal) and not to move until he obtains the much sought-after illumination at the age of 35. He studied spiritual awakening for years with various Brahmin masters without ever reaching Nirvana. For this, he returned to an intense meditative state and had to fight for seven weeks the demons who wanted to distract him and distract him from his goal.
The tree represents the material aspect of life, while Nirvana is the spiritual awakening of the soul. Shortly after achieving it, he sets himself the goal of disseminating this knowledge to Humanity to deliver it from the suffering in ignorance. The bodhi tree represents wisdom and the spiritual path that one must travel to one day understand the truth and become luminous beings.
4.9. HINDUISM
The representation of the universe and the manifestation of the Principle of being and not being (Brahman). The Hindu tree of life is called Ashvattha or Açvattha, and we can think of it as a world tree. As for Buddhists, this tree is a fig tree of the pagodas (ficus religiosa). Among the Hindus, it is believed that Vishnu was born under this tree.
The single fig tree symbolically represents the Hindu trinity:
• Brahmâ, the Creator God, is associated with his roots
• Shiva, the destructive God, is associated with his trunk
• Vishnu, the protective God, is related to its branches and its leaves
The main characteristic of this tree is that it is an inverted tree. Indeed, its roots are at the top and touch the sky, and its branches are located at the bottom to draw energy from the Earth. The goal of every human being is deliverance, and the tree of life can be the path to it. Yogis continue to practice meditation under the sacred fig trees today. Kundalini yoga, one of the 22 schools of Yoga, unites the Hindu tree of life symbol with the concept of the seven chakras or energy centers of the human body.
According to this discipline, to achieve physical well-being and then spiritual awakening, each chakra must first be opened so that energy can flow from the root up through the spine (the trunk) to the top of the skull ( branches and foliage).
5. BENEFICIAL EFFECTS OF THE TREE OF LIFE DECORATION
The tree of life is also used as a decorative object to dressing our interior walls with style. This is ideal if you are looking to create a warm and bright atmosphere in a living room. But there are other advantages beyond the purely decorative ones. Nature, Zen purity or the perfection of Feng Shui are in the spotlight.
Hanging a tree of life decor in our bedroom or living room can positively impact our emotional state.
Indeed, the tree of life helps balance and harmonize the energies that prevail in the house, creating the appropriate conditions for mental relaxation. This should be an essential point when choosing our interior decoration because there is nothing better than coming home after a stressful day at work and finding a calm and soothing atmosphere.
If you practice Yoga or mindfulness meditation in your daily life, feel free to decorate your bedroom with a tree of life sticker. Visualizing the tree symbol will help you focus and focus on your breathing. You will then fully experience the present moment.
Discover our extensive collection of tree of life decorations and imagine the happiness these canvases will bring to you at home.
6. CONCLUSION
We hope we’ve helped you understand the different aspects of the tree of life a little better. This sacred symbol contains many meanings, although most, unfortunately, are still largely unknown to the general public. Now that you’ve read this article, you know exactly what the tree of life is.
You know its distant origins and how this symbol has enriched itself with positive meanings with every culture and religion that has embraced it. You are now initiated into the secrets of the tree of life. All you have to do is bring it into your life to enjoy the beneficial energies naturally emanate from it. Share this unprecedented happiness with your loved ones by offering this legendary symbol as a gift.
Where To Get Tree Of Life Artwork For Your Home?
