Palm trees are beautiful to looks at and today—at least in America—they more often bring to mind tropical vacations or everyone’s favorite state to hate. (Hi, writing this from Florida, with a view of many beautiful palms out my window!) But palm trees have many deeper meanings that have evolved over millennia—from fertility to victory to peace and good vibes, they even hold a pace of honor in many world religions (Palm Sunday, anyone?)
In Ancient Greece and Rome palm fronds were given to the victor of a race or competition. They came to symbolize victory and were added in to many relief art, paintings, and sculptures over the centuries that these empires were prominent.
In Mesopotamia (which included the Levant region, Iraq, and stretched into Iran) they were used to symbolize the sacred Tree of Life, which itself represents the afterlife and the connection between earth and our roots or ancestors, and the spirit realm. The roots of the palm reach deep underground, and the tree itself stretches tall to the sky, bearing fruit that is known for its near-magical healing powers.
This fruit of the date palms has long been associated with fertility in many cultures. It is also a superfood of near magical proportions, with a truly incredible resume of benefits to our health and longevity. I eat 4 or 5 dates every day, personally, and have for as long as I can remember! I also put them in my boys smoothies to sweeten them, ands them in baking.
Palms are likewise celebrated as a symbol of resilience and strength for their ability to withstand storms. Their roots go so deep and their unique structure allows them to sway and bend with the winds yet not break.
They represent the oasis. The resting spot within an otherwise hostile environment. In this way they can mean peace and tranquility, and even survival.
When Jesus entered Jerusalem the people laid palms at his feet and across his path, symbolizing his triumph and the peace that came with it—hence the term “Palm Sunday”.
In Islam, the prophet Muhammad revered palms, considering them a gift from Allah.
In many cultures throughout history, waving palm fronds was believed to ward off evil, clear negative energy and therefore usher in luck and abundance. Today we can use palms in our home in much the same way, whether it is real or faux palm fronds, or bringing them into our spaces through art.