Trees in Mythology

Forests tend to play roles in many legends and folktales. Around the world trees have played as ladders

between worlds, sources of wisdom or life, and as physical forms of supernatural beings. They are often

significant in many worlds of mythologies and given deep meanings. Often they are viewed as a symbol of

growth and death due to the death and revival of their foliage. This can also be viewed as a rebirth.

Evergreen trees are viewed as a symbol of eternal, immortality or fertility due to the tree staying green

through the cycle of seasons.

The Banyan and the sacred fig (Ficus religiosa) - Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism

Tree of Knowledge of Good & Evil- Judaism & Christianity

Tree Spirits- Folk Religion and Folklore

Wishing Trees

In many parts of the world travelers have formed the custom of hanging objects upon trees to establish a

relationship between person and tree. Europe is known as a site of pilgrimage and recital of prayers as a

result of the trees. Popular beliefs associate the sites with healing and wishing.

A man suffering when a tree withers.

A new born child being associated with the blooming of a new tree.

Sometimes, boughs or plants are selected and the individual draws omens of life and death.

Trees are often associated with oracles as well. Another relation is the custom of transferring sickness from

man to tree. Hair and nails of the ill person are placed upon a tree or forcibly inserted in a hole of the trunk.

The tree may also be split apart and the patient is to pass through the aperture. The trees recovery is

associated with the patient.