Are there several trees each standing
out in its own way? It the tree part of a dense forest or standing
alone like a sentinel? Are you walking in twisted brambles
in a thicket or standing beneath a towering ancient oak? Is
the tree about to be cut down for its wood? Is there a sense
of protection as you stand beneath the branches, or is the scene
a stormy one where the tree is struck by lightning, conveying
an image like the Tower card in Tarot? What part of the
tree is most noticeable: the trunk which supports the structure,
the roots which feed the tree, or the branches which reach to
the sky? What does all this say about your waking life?
What follows are some meanings of trees gathered over thousands
of years from different cultures. The Ash is said to convey a sense
of grandeur while the Aspen, whose leaves are said to “quake,” is
thought to be a symbol of sadness and even to foretell that tears
will fall. By contrast its cousin the Beech is a harbinger
of prosperity and the related Birch a sign of gracefulness.
Aromatic Cedar represents purity and suggests a relationship to
fire. Cypress trees are sacred to the goddess Venus and are
thought to mean transformation. Elm trees mean messages are
on the way. Hawthorne trees, which loom large in the legend
of Joseph of Arimathea, embody the idea of a glorious quest. The
Maple tree, whose leaves are resplendent in autumn, is said to
symbolize a quiet reserve.
The beautiful flowering Mimosa tree carries the meaning of sensitivity
while the mighty Oak always means strength. Palm trees, as
evidenced in Biblical stories, represent victory. Pine trees
are thought to embody a sense of compassion, perhaps because of
the sound the wind makes in their branches. Spruce trees carry
the promise of hope, while Willow, often called the Weeping Willow,
like Aspen carries a meaning of sadness. If a tree appears in your
dream be grateful for its presence and know that your wise self
has graced you with a symbol of ancient power and significance. Look
deeply at what’s its meaning might be saying to you. Always
remember a tree is only as strong as its roots, so dig deep while
you reach for the sky.
Julie Gillentine is the award-winning author of TAROT & DREAM
INTERPRETATION and other books and articles. She teaches
workshops around the country and leads sacred journeys to Egypt & Greece.
Visit her at www.queenofcups.com |
