Friday Facts - Plants

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Plants. Did you realize the number of plants that have biblical symbolisms? I sure didn't. I went on this search looking for the meaning behind the olive branch. Well, I found that, but also found out there is symbolism behind the pomegranite and reeds.... I had no idea.


I found this really interesting, so thought I would share for my Friday Facts post this week. Enjoy!



The palm-branch is a very early symbol of Christianity; its image often accompanied martyrs to symbolize their "victory" over earthly temptations and misery. The palm was in long use by the Romans before Christianization and carried over into Christiani. The leaves of the palm also figure in the New Testament, carried by the crowd who met Jesus upon his" triumphal entry" into Jerusalem.

The lily is a symbol of purity, chastity, and simplicity. As such, it is the emblem of the Virgin Mary, and often figures in scenes of the annunciation.

The reed is one of the emblems of the Passion, the instrument by which the sponge soaked with vinegar was administered to Christ on the cross. The reed is also an emblem of John the Baptist, an emblem of his baptising ministry in the river Jordan.

The olive is symbolic of fertility and abundance, of hope and new beginnings, and, of course, peace. The olive tree is mentioned numerous times in the old testament, as olives were a staple crop for the Hebrews. The olive branch as a symbol of peace stems from the Old Testament story of Noah, who sent out a dove at the end of the great flood. The dove returned with an olive branch, which became a symbol of peace between God and man.

The pomegranate is an ancient symbol of wisdom. In Christian art, it often represents the Church, the seeds within individual congregations.

The rose is the ancient symbol of Venus, the Roman goiddess of love. In Christianity, the rose has a variety of meanings. A white rose is an emblem of purity; the red, martyrdom. A ring or garland of roses is the emblem of the Virgin Mary, and the basis of the rosary. A yellow rose is reserved as a symbol of papl benediction.


12 Thoughts Shared:

Irene said...

That was so nice!There is so much to look for in our faith, all the little details that make it approachable to man, and sweet to our feelings. Thank you.

LAURIE said...

What a neat post. I learned quite a bit today. Thanks for sharing - have a blessed weekend, Laurie

Tricia said...

Very interesting Melanie, thanks for sharing! Have a great weekend!

Blessings!

Joan said...

Very interesting.
Thanks for sharing.

Have a blessed day!

Natalie said...

That is so interesting. I didn't know that. The more I read...the less I think I know.

Joyfull said...

Very interesting facts that you shared. Loved reading about the plants and their meanings.

Debra Kaye said...

Melanie,

Thank you for taking the time to share this with us. Isn't the Lord just so amazing! He reveals Himself in everything! Beautifully done, I ejoyed this!

Toknowhim said...

Have a great weekend Melanie :)

Alexis said...

Wow, that was quite interesting... I always enjoy educating myself - but then I wonder why I didn't already know that. ha!

By the way, you've got an award on my blog - come visit!

Salute said...

This was very interesting and I learned something here today.

Sab said...

Interesting! I love how many things tie into the Bible! Imagery and symbolism are some of my fave topics! :)

Erica said...

You are always so good to fill us in on the details. Thank you for my vegetation lesson! I love that the Lord was so creative and ingenious in his creation.