What Do Lilies Symbolize?
These blossoms aren't just a treat for the eyes. Lilies have deep-rooted symbolism and meanings, stretching into the annals of history, and shifting from one culture to another.
Purity and Virtue:
Often associated with funerals, lilies symbolize the restored innocence of the soul of the deceased. The beautiful bloom promises a renewed state of purity after death, making it a comforting presence at such solemn occasions.
Remember the radiant bouquet of lilies on Valentine's Day? Well, that's because these flowers are also seen as emblems of love and passion, especially the red and pink ones. The heart-shaped petals can cleverly articulate matters of the heart.
Did you know the lily was a favorite of the Greeks and Romans? They used it to signify the birth of a beautiful, royal child. This connection is also mirrored in religious contexts, where the lily represents the Virgin Mary's purity and chastity, interpreted as the 'Queen of the angels.'
Healing and Nurturing
In certain cultures, lilies represent nurturing and motherhood, with some tribes using the flower for medicinal purposes.