The Symbolism of a Tree

I have always been very fascinated with trees around the world. Some trees are so ancient that if trees could talk, they would have shared with us many fascinating stories throughout their time in history. The oldest olive tree in the world is located in Crete. The impressive olive tree of Vouves (picture) is located in Ano Vouves, a village near Chania, Crete. Its age is estimated at over 3,000 years old and is the oldest one in Greece and probably one of the oldest trees in the world. It still produces olives to this day!! Trees have many meanings and some are universally known while others may be specific to a certain group. The ancient symbol of the Tree has been found to represent physical and spiritual nourishment, transformation and liberation, union and fertility.

Trees are fascinating. We can appreciate their uniqueness and beauty, their complicated root systems, and the way they seem to offer a sense of peace and serenity when we enter their presence. Yet, we can find the greatest fascination by exploring tree symbolism, how it relates to us and our universal connection to all things. Trees are perhaps best known as metaphors for life and spiritual growth. So by looking closely at tree symbolism, we can see correlations with our own lives. We can learn lessons that may inspire us and provide insights along our own spiritual paths. What lessons can we learn from trees?
Lessons We Can Learn from Tree Symbolism:
The following thoughts can aid in your awareness of what we can learn from trees:

  • The importance of staying grounded (or deeply rooted) while simultaneously growing and reaching new heights to gain a higher perspective. We can view our beliefs and spirituality in much the same way. They serve as our “anchor” while we explore along our individual paths.
  • Overcoming obstacles – tree branches will grow in and around any obstacles in their path – always finding another way.
  • Always growing, if you notice tree branches, they are always reaching, growing, contorting, and expanding. We can relate that lesson to our own spiritual path to persevere in always expanding our knowledge and awareness.
  • Famously, related to Buddhism beliefs, Siddhartha Gautama became enlightened while sitting under a fig tree. There, he was born as Buddha and named the tree Bodhi.
  • In Judeo-Christianity, from the Book of Genesis, we see parables about both the Tree of Life and the Tree of Knowledge.
  • Sacred groves (a grove or gathering of trees symbolically important to particular cultures’ religious beliefs) were most prominent in the Ancient Near East and prehistoric Europe, yet also extend to various cultures throughout the world. These include “Celtic, Baltic, Germanic, ancient Greek, near Eastern, Roman, Slavic polytheism and were also used in India, Japan, and West Africa. In sum, as you notice trees in your life, take a few moments to connect with “tree energy” and relate to the lessons we can learn. You may notice that you feel humble when connecting to tree energy – or peaceful, serene, or perhaps grateful. In their grace and longevity, trees speak to us and offer depths of wisdom through their symbolism. #trees #symbolismoftrees

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