The Olive Tree Gift
The Olive Tree gift is rich in meaning. One of the key reasons why an olive tree is an ideal Valentine’s Day gift is its longevity. Olive trees can live for centuries, serving as a powerful symbol of the enduring and everlasting love you cherish. And as your relationship grows, so will the tree, becoming a living testament to the timelessness of your bond.
Measurements
55cm including terracotta pot.
This is a delightful specimen in terracotta pot. A gift rich in symbolism across many cultures and religions. The olive tree is a universal symbol of peace and friendship.
For Christians the Olive tree symbolises ‘Hope’. In the Old Testament a dove returns to Noah and the Ark with an olive branch, a sign that land is near and the flood at an end.
References to Olives and Olive trees are found throughout the Quaran. Muslims have made prayer beads out of wood from olive trees for centuries. The prophet Muhammad taught in his hadith:
“Eat the oil and use it on your hair and skin for it comes from a blessed tree“.
The Olive Tree is universally recognised as the tree of peace but what else does this ancient tree symbolise?
55cm including terracotta pot.
Rich in Meaning
To early societies trees were considered to be sacred and many rituals took place under trees.
They were seen as a direct link between the gods and the earth and an antenna to the heavens.
Olives in Ancient Greece
In Ancient Greece Olive trees were considered to be an aphrodisiac and a gift of an Olive tree for newly weds was customary, as was a feast of Olives on their wedding night. For ancient Greeks Olive trees represented fertility. Today science has proven that their instinct was right as Olives contain healthy fats. These are critical for maintaining the health and well-being of both men and women.
The Olive Tree is often referred to as ‘the tree of eternity’ due its evergreen canopy and ability to thrive in all conditions, living for hundreds of years; the average age of the Olive Tree is 800 years old.
“Lift me like an olive branch and be my homeward dove
Dance me to the end of love” (Leonard Cohen).
Please let us know what personal message you want us to attach to your Olive tree gift. 🕊
