Guide to Flower Symbolism Related to Gods and Goddesses Around the World
Flowers have long held significant meanings in various cultures, often linked to gods and goddesses. This guide explores the symbolism of flowers associated with deities from different mythologies, showcasing their connections to love, purity, fertility, and more.
1. Lotus (Asia)
Associated Deities:
Buddha in Buddhism
Lakshmi in Hinduism
The lotus flower represents purity, enlightenment, and rebirth. In Buddhism, it symbolises the emergence from the mud of desire and attachment, illustrating spiritual awakening. For Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, the lotus signifies abundance and beauty.
2. Rose (Greece and Rome)
Associated Deities:
Aphrodite (Venus in Roman mythology)
The rose is a strong symbol of love and beauty, often connected to Aphrodite, the goddess of love. Its thorns are said to represent the pain of love, while its fragrance signifies the sweetness of romantic passion.
3. Iris (Greece)
Associated Deity:
Iris, Goddess of the Rainbow
The iris flower symbolises hope, faith, and wisdom. In mythology, Iris served as a messenger between gods and mortals, and the flower signifies the connection between the divine and the earthly.
4. Marigold (Mesoamerica)
Associated Deities:
Mictlantecuhtli (Aztec god of the dead)
In Aztec culture, marigolds are associated with the Day of the Dead, symbolising remembrance and the cycle of life and death. Their bright colours are thought to attract spirits, connecting the living with the deceased.
5. Daisy (Norse Mythology)
Associated Deity:
Freya
The daisy represents innocence and renewal. In Norse mythology, Freya, the goddess of love and fertility, is often linked to this flower, symbolising new beginnings and the promise of love.
6. Cherry Blossom (Japan)
Associated Deity:
Sakura, associated with various Shinto deities
The cherry blossom is a powerful symbol of fleeting beauty and the transient nature of life. In Japanese culture, it is celebrated during the Hanami festival, representing the arrival of spring and the beauty of life’s impermanence.
7. Lily (Christianity and Greek Mythology)
Associated Deities:
Hera (Greek mythology)
The Virgin Mary in Christianity
Lilies symbolise purity, fertility, and renewal. In Christian symbolism, the white lily represents the purity of the Virgin Mary, while in Greek mythology, it is connected to Hera, the queen of the gods, symbolising marital devotion.
8. Poppy (Various Cultures)
Associated Deities:
Demeter (Greek goddess of agriculture)
Morpheus (God of dreams)
Poppies are often associated with sleep, peace, and death. Demeter links poppies to fertility and agricultural abundance, while in other traditions, they represent the gateway to the dream world, evoking Morpheus’s realm.
A florist viewpoint
Understanding the symbolism of flowers in relation to various gods and goddesses enriches our appreciation of their beauty and significance. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal or their deeper meanings, these flowers carry legacies that transcend time and culture. Embracing their symbolism can enhance personal experiences and celebrations, infusing them with reverence and connection to the divine.
