Around 500 BC, the Celts landed in Ireland from Central Europe. Their Celtic culture had spread to every corner of the island of Ireland in just a few hundred years. The Celts ruled Ireland until the arrival of Christianity around 400 AD. Although more than 1500 years have gone by, their impact in Ireland remains strong. Numerous artifacts and monuments survive, and many Irish people still identify as Celtic.
The Celtic Tree of Life
The Celtic Tree of Life may be found in almost every religion and culture on the planet, and its origins can be traced all the way back to ancient Egypt and is known as the Crann Bethadh in Irish. Trees were extremely important to the Celts; when preparing the ground for settlement, it was customary practice to plant a tree, generally an oak tree, in the center of the homestead.
The people and their animals were sheltered by the tree, which also served as a sacred meeting spot for tribal gatherings. It also served as a source of firewood and medications. Chopping down such a tree was deemed a capital offense, and chopping down an enemy’s tree would have been hailed as a tremendous victory.
What Does the Tree of Life Symbolize?
- It signifies life, knowledge, experience, and wisdom that develops as we progress through life, becoming stronger each day. The tree of life embodies the forces of nature working in perfect harmony to maintain the universe’s equilibrium.
- When a new settlement in Ireland was created, a tree called Crann Bethadh (basically meaning Tree of Life) was planted in its heart.
- Trees played a significant role in Celtic culture. Trees, according to the Celts, were the ancestors of humans.
- The Celtic tree of life was thought to have extraordinary powers in Celtic mythology.
- Gatherings used to take place beneath it, and it also provided a shelter, food supply, and wildlife habitat. Life would have been very difficult without trees.
Symbolism
The Celtic Tree of Life’s symbolism is ultimately about nature’s forces interacting to create balance and harmony. The roots extend deep into the earth while the branches soar to the heavens. A representation of life’s everlasting cycle and the link between heaven and earth, mind and body. The Tree of Life was regarded by the Celts as a sign of longevity, knowledge, and strength. They even believed that trees were man’s forefathers and that they served as a portal to the spirit world.
Celtic Jewelry
It’s unsurprising that the Tree of Life is a popular Celtic jewelry motif, given its positive associations with regeneration, renewal, and the everlasting circle of life. Along with the Celtic cross and the Trinity knot, it’s a popular choice for necklaces and a fantastic way to demonstrate your Celtic ancestry. The Celtic Tree of Life pendant is a beautiful replica of this old Irish emblem.
So, what are you waiting for? Today is the day to find your perfect piece of Celtic crystal design jewelry.