Arecaceae Sunday

Although in northern climes, Palm Sunday is sometimes referred to as Yew Sunday (or even Branch Sunday), it is the Arecaceae family with

which the ancient Hebrews often paid tribute.

Wikipedia tells us that “the palm branch was a symbol of triumph and victory in Jewish tradition.”  Palm fronds are not only specifically mentioned in John 12:13, but also in Leviticus 23:40 and in Revelation 7:9.  Therefore, when Jesus made His triumphal entrance into Jerusalem (on the back of a peace-indicating donkey), the welcoming crowd waved Him in (and carpeted His path) with palm branches.

Early Christians then used the palm branch to symbolize “the victory of the faithful over enemies of the soul” (and/or the victory of spirit over flesh).  Christian art often utilized palms as a symbol of

martyrdom.  Heaven, too, was depicted with palms.  Early Christian tombs (and even earlier non-Christian tombs) also included Arecaceae representations.

Other religions incorporated Arecaceae, as well.  The Islamic faithful were originally called to prayer from the heights of palm trees (later to be replaced by minarets).  Muhammed’s home was said to be made out of palms.  Ancient mythology utilized a lot of palm symbolism.  The Egyptian god Huh (who is equated with infinity) is often depicted holding palm stems (representing long life).  The Greek god Apollo had been born

under a palm tree.  The Assyrian goddess Ishtar was symbolized by a palm that connected Heaven with Earth. 

Even today, people are drawn to that “certain something” about the Arecaceae family.  Palms remain the backdrop to many a longing for Peace.

Resources

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palm_Sunday

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palm_(plant)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palm_branch_(symbol)

Copyright April 1, 2012 by Linda Van Slyke   All Rights Reserved