Tree of Life

Western Religions and Mythologies:

• Judaism: In the Hebrew Bible, the Tree of Life stands in the Garden of Eden alongside the Tree of Knowledge. It represents immortality or connection to the divine.

• Christianity: Some Christian interpretations associate the Tree of Life with Jesus Christ, representing eternal life and spiritual nourishment.

• Islam: While not explicitly mentioned in the Quran, some Islamic traditions link the Tree of Life to the concept of immortality and divine blessings.

• Norse Mythology: Yggdrasil, the world tree, serves as a central image in Norse mythology, connecting the nine realms and representing the interconnectedness of all things.

• Celtic Mythology: The Crann Bethadh, meaning Tree of Life, appears in Irish mythology and symbolizes wisdom, strength, and regeneration.

• Mesoamerican Religions: The Maya creation myth features the World Tree, representing the axis mundi or center of the universe.

Eastern Religions and Mythologies:

• Hinduism:

  1. Ashvattha Tree: In Hindu mythology, the Ashvattha tree, also known as the Bodhi tree, symbolizes the universe and the cycle of existence. It features prominently in the story of Buddha's enlightenment, representing the awakening to the true nature of reality.

  2. Kalpavriksha: Literally meaning "wish-fulfilling tree," the Kalpavriksha grants any desire to those who touch it. It embodies abundance, prosperity, and divine blessings.

• Buddhism:

  1. Bodhi Tree: As mentioned earlier, the Bodhi tree played a crucial role in Buddha's enlightenment. It symbolizes the end of the cycle of suffering and the path to liberation.

  2. Kalpataru: This "life tree" represents the interconnectedness of all living beings. Its roots reach into the underworld, its trunk connects the earthly realm, and its branches extend into the heavens, showcasing the unity of existence.

• Taoism:

  1. World Tree: The Taoist concept of the World Tree connects the three realms of Heaven, Earth, and the Underworld. It symbolizes the flow of Qi, the universal life force, and the balance between yin and yang.

  2. Peach Tree of Immortality: According to Taoist mythology, consuming the fruit of the Peach Tree of Immortality grants eternal life. It represents the pursuit of longevity and spiritual attainment.

• Jainism:

  1. Samvatsara Vriksha: This Jain "time tree" depicts the cyclical nature of time and the endless rebirth of souls. Its branches represent different kalpas, vast cosmic periods, and its leaves signify individual lives within those cycles.

  2. Kalpavriksha: Similar to the Hindu concept, the Jain Kalpavriksha fulfills desires but emphasizes the impermanence of worldly pleasures. It serves as a reminder to detach from material attachments and seek spiritual liberation.