Tree of Life

The tree of life is a widespread archetype common to many religions, mythologies, and folktales – a common idea in cultures throughout the world. It represents, at times, the source of life, a force that connects all lives, or the cycle of life and death itself.

The tree of life represents the afterlife, and connection between the earth and heaven. The bond and affection to trees is so deep that Celts believed the actual trees were their ancestors, gatekeepers to the Celtic Otherworld. As such, the tree of life in Celtic Culture is sacred.

The ancient symbol of the Tree has been found to represent physical and spiritual nourishment, transformation and liberation, union and fertility. Often seen as a symbol of femininity due to its long branches and flowing leaves, the trunk is seen as masculine.

Trees are in the paradise of God. In Revelation 22, we learn that the tree of life bears fruit crops 12 times a year, and its leaves are for the healing of the nations. There are many trees with healing powers at our disposal now, which is a sign of God’s provision for us.

Based on aesthetic or religious significance, the following list of 10 sacred trees is meant to acclaim the spiritual relationship between humans and trees.

Willow Tree
Ash
Sacred Oak
Italian Cypress
The Bodhi Tree
Witch Tree
Baobab Tree
Christmas Tree

The Tree of Life, sometimes referred to as the World Tree or the Tree of Knowledge, appears in the mythology and folklore of cultures around the world. Tree of Life meanings vary slightly from culture to culture. However, a common theme they all share is the idea that a mystical tree connects the physical and spiritual worlds. In addition, the Tree of Life is foundational to supporting all life.

The fact that this ancient symbol for life is a tree is fitting. After all, throughout history, human beings have paid homage to trees. It’s as if our distant ancestors clearly understood how important trees were for supporting life on Earth, even before the times of scientific inquiry.

Peoples as diverse as the Vikings, ancient Egyptians, Celts, Native Americans, Jewish mystics, and others all told stories of a Tree of Life. Essentially, the Tree of Life helped to explain the divine plan of how people got here and how they should conduct themselves on Earth.

The earliest depictions of the Tree of Life date back to about 7000 BC and were found in present-day Turkey. There are also depictions discovered in the Acadians dating to 3000 BC, in ancient Egypt and in Celtic culture.

There is no consensus as to what type of tree is used for the Tree of Life. The most common depictions show a deciduous (leaf-bearing tree) with branches that reach high into the sky and roots that spread out through the ground. The widespread reach of the roots and branches are essential to many of the symbolic meanings of the Tree of Life.