Throughout time trees have taken center place in mythology and world religion. They are not only representations of mystical powers present in everyday life but stand for the cycles of birth, death, and rebirth. See how they are a part of your life. Find out how trees and their mythology, symbolism, and mysticism can enrich your life.

Examples of Trees in Mythology

Trees are a common symbol of life and death in world mythology. Examples of them can be found in most religions and mythology. They offer people a mystic representation of eternity and are symbols of nature. Take time to familiarize yourself with the rich Norse, Celtic, Asian, and Egyptian mythology examples. 

A notable example of a mythical tree in mythology is the Yggdrasil, commonly called the World Tree in Norse Mythology and sometimes the World Ash. Another well-known example is the Acacia Tree in Egyptian mythology. Finally, if we look to the realms of Asian mythology, we have the fascinating history of The Four Worlds Trees of China.

Other Fascinating Aspects of Trees in Mythology

Trees feature in religions around the world and are worshiped as sacred beings. For example, in Celtic mythology, trees are looked upon with reverence and are thought to have many spiritual powers which connect people to the afterlife. In addition, trees feature in rituals about the renewal of life and humanity’s connection to the deities they worship. 

How the World Tree and Sacred Trees Represent the Cycle of Birth, Life, and Death

There is a good reason for the prevalence of the World Tree in mythologies across the world. They stand for renewal and represent the forms of life that come from one source, namely the divine nature of the deity that created it. In the case of Yggdrasil, it is a structure that links the underworld to the world of people and acts as a support to the crystal dome of the heavens. 

One of the reasons for the enduring representations of trees in mythology is how they represent the various phases of life and the fecundity of life. The very structure of the tree suggests the spreading of life from the soil and into the sky. The seasonal reoccurrence of leaves in the spring and the shedding of leaves in the fall stand for the great cycle of life. But what is the World Tree, and how is it different from a Tree of Life? It all comes down to religion and ritual. A World Tree can be a religious symbol that is part of a world religion. On the other hand, the Tree of Life is symbolic iconography that symbolizes life in general.

Trees and Mysticism

There are numerous examples of fascinating trees in history. They often tell stories about heroes and historical characters. In addition, these trees symbolize the values and beliefs of the people who cherish their sacred nature.

The spiritual nature of trees in mythology is a force that links the world around us to the spiritual realms in mythology and world religion. In mythology and folklore, trees are frequently inhabited by spirits and magical beings who tend to them as portals to the beyond.

Time to Plant Your Own Sacred Tree

Now that you know about the importance of the tree in world religion and its sacred importance, you may want to consider planting your own sacred tree. Start with what the tree represents for you and your family. Then, begin a tradition and family story all your own. The sacred tree should be a part of your life—plant one today.