The Meaning of the Tree of Life
(Above: Our most coveted Tree of Life design. This winter, featuring an icy Blue Topaz)
Two trees, the Tree of Knowledge, connecting to heaven and the underworld, and the Tree of Life, connecting all forms of creation, are both forms of the world tree or cosmic tree and are portrayed in various religions and philosophies as the same tree.
The Tree of Life has a long symbolic history, crossing many cultures and religions: Ancient Iran, Baha’i, Buddhism, China, Christianity, Paganism, Celtic, Norse Mythology, Islam, Kabbalah, Mexico, South America, North America, Turkic Mythology and Hinduism.
The Celtic tree denotes the nourishing powers of Mother Earth, a connection to ancestors and the spirit world and a representation of the journey of spiritual growth. The branches reach to the sky and roots anchor into the earth, all of these join into the endless circle of the knot, symbolizing the interconnectedness of heaven, earth and all living things.
While it would be overwhelming to explain its significance to each culture, the Tree of Life has overarching themes and meanings. The quick version suggests that The Tree of Life symbolizes: connection to all things, lineage, continuation, fertility, eternity and immortality, life, birth, re-birth, family, ancestors, future relations, strength and resilience, protection, connection between heaven and earth, a fresh start on life, positive energy, growth, strength, good health and a bright future. As the tree grows old, it bears seeds that contain its very essence and in this way, the tree becomes immortal.
No single culture or religion “owns” the Tree of Life, and you can adapt the symbol into you your own personal totem, giving it deep, powerful meaning that fits your intention.
You might want to use the symbol for your family. A solid connection to your ancestors, symbolizing past and future generations: ever-expanding branches to your parents and grandparents and to your children and your children’s children. A tree creates new seeds or fruit that give life to the next generation, to begin anew.
The Tree of Life may symbolize your personal growth, as over time, like a tree you become a fascinating, intriguing individual, weathering hardships and broad experiences in life that make you into who you are.
You could be at an exciting or challenging new time in your life and the tree becomes a symbol of growth, strength and rebirth; a springtime awakening when like the tree, you burst forth with new blooms and leaves, alive, vital and born again.
There are no limits to the Tree of Life, and just like this tree, you grow stronger over time as you strive for greater knowledge, new experiences and throughout your beautiful, amazing life.