Tree of Life Symbolism
The symbol of tree of life represents qualities like wisdom, strength, protection, beauty, bounty and redemption. The symbol is also used to represent the 'Creator'. This tree is associated with the creator because it offers protection and supports abundant fruit production & regeneration. The analogy can also be used to describe the life of humans. It is said that humans develop 'roots' of beliefs and 'branch out' by means of wisdom. The 'trunk' i.e. the mind & body keeps the roots of beliefs and branches of wisdom connected with each other.The Celts believed that trees held great powers and they provided people with food, shelter and warmth. Different kinds of living beings including insects and animals took shelter in these trees. These creatures were sustained by the tree of life. The symbol of Celtic tree of life is an ancient one and it has a long tradition. Today, the symbol is depicted in many different forms. Different parts of the Celtic tree of life are assigned different meanings. Roots are considered the foundation of the tree; roots also symbolize the otherworld. The trunk connects branches and roots with each other. Therefore, it is associated with the mortal world. It is believed that branches connect the world above and below them. The reason behind Celtic tree of life being highly revered is that nature is worshiped through this symbol. In the Gaelic language, tree of life is referred to as the 'crann bethadh'.
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