HortiCulture
Plants have the power to change our moods, health, and appreciation for life. Their potential and importance have always been demonstrated and celebrated in religion through scripture, rituals, and ceremonies. However, reasons for worshiping plants transcend spiritual practice. In fact, research by the Mental Health Foundation shows nearly half of all UK residents testify to reduced stress levels after spending time in nature. They also report that taking special care to notice one’s surroundings is an essential step in connecting with nature and reaping major mental health benefits. It may be hard for one to access quality green space, but taking extra time to closely observe plants and explore their fascinating histories can help people feel more connected to nature. Plants that we eat, use in medicine, and use in special ceremonies have symbolic significance that can help one find beauty in and reverence for everything they encounter.
Important plants in Islam: The Olive Tree
Olive trees range between 10 to 40 feet tall. They have willowy, pliable branches with small leaves on either side that are rich green on top and silver on the bottom. Should the top of the tree die, a new trunk will grow from the roots. Shortly before summer, the tree will blossom with its characteristic small, white flowers. Soon after the tree will bear olives which are valued as food and as a source of cooking and lamp oil. Prophet Muhammad directed his followers to consume and use olive oil since it comes from a sacred tree. To this day, Muslims make prayer beads from olive tree wood and annoint their prayer shawls with the oil.
If you are interested in learning more about plants important in Islam, reasearch palms, pomegranates, grapes, eucalyptus, katam, Salvadora Persica, Tamarisk, and hina.
Important plants in Hinduism: The Fig Tree
Fig trees and bushes can range greatly in size from 3 feet to 39 feet tall. If snapped, the stems will secret a white, milky substance. When the wide leaves fall from their stems, fig fruits grow just above the scar, either alone or sometimes in pairs. In Hinduism, each of the 27 most important constellations is associated with a tree; the constellation, Pushya (known in the West as Cancer), is associated with the Fig Tree. Some denominations of Hinduism which recognize Buddha appreciate this plant because it is said that he achieved enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. In a continued tradition of worshiping the fig tree, Hindus still meditate beneath fig trees, do meditative pacing around them while chanting to the “king of trees”, and some pour water on their roots every Sunday.
If you are interested in learning more about plants important in Hinduism, research Tulsi, Banyan, Ashoka, mango, neem, lotus, and sandalwood.
Important plants in Judaism: Crocus
Croci are a member of the Iris family that blossom during the early spring. The low growing plant may have purple, orange, yellow, or white flowers which close when in darkness. The Herman Crocus is native to areas of Israel which receive little to no snowfall, hence their early bloom. In Judaism, crocuses blooming symbolizes the hope of spring and a reminder that spring rain, no matter how dreary, will help yield healthy crops. It is said that the white crocuses set against the dark and drab hillsides look like the glittering flame of candles for Hanukkah.
If you are interested in learning more about plants important in Judaism, research wheat, barley, grape vines, dates, fig trees, olive, and Lillies
Important plants in Spirituality: Sage
Sage is a member of the mint family and is commonly known as a cooking herb, though some varieties are ornamental rather than edible. It may grow up to two feet tall and bear spiky purple, pink, red, or white flowers. The leaves are slightly fuzzy, much like lamb’s ear or dusty miller, but they are oval shaped and of a faint green color. A chemical found in sage called thujone contains a mild psychoactive, which may be why it was brewed into a tonic for hundreds of years. ‘Sage’ is derived from a latin word meaning “to feel healthy” and in medieval Europe, it was used to bolster memory and encourage philosophical thinking. Indigenous peoples have long used sage as a smudge or source of cleansing smoke. In other forms of spirituality, sage smoke is used to clear energy which is not helpful. Acupuncturist and reiki master (energy worker) Dr. Yaeger claims sage smoke helps their patients relax in just a matter of minutes.
If you are interested in learning more about plants important in Spirituality, research St. John’s wort, chamomile, rosemary, basil, thyme, lavender, and jasmine.
Important plants in Christianity: Hyacinth
Hyacinth belongs to a small classification of bulbous herbs, though some varieties are poisonous. Flat leaves, like that of a daffodil, are seemingly unattached to the plant’s thick stem and emerge directly from the soil. The curly, heavily scented flowers of Hyacinth typically grow in a bunch at the top of the plant and can be many colors, most commonly pink, purple, or white. In Christianity, hyacinth, much like the season in which they bloom, are associated with the resurrection of Jesus as well as new life. The flower is a symbol of God’s infinite wisdom and peace, it captures a want to be accepted into heaven. Hyacinth is popularly used around Easter, but other varieties such as grape hyacinth bloom well into the summer.
If you are interested in learning more about plants important in Christianity, research clovers, roses, irises, almond trees, apple trees, and daisies.
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