The Tree of Life - Ancient Celtic Symbol

Edna O’Brien wrote, “When anyone asks me about the Irish character, I say look at the trees. Maimed, stark and misshapen, but ferociously tenacious.”

The Celtic Ranch will celebrate trees and all they represent on Arbor Day. Stop in on April 25 for professional tree-care advice from Norman Landcraft's Paul Norman. And for $1 you will go home with a Red Oak seedling of your very own.

Trees are universally beloved and celebrated. All cultures and religions point to the mighty tree as a symbol of life and strength and trees serve as the subjects of many myths, legends, symbols and artistic creations. The Celtic people have been celebrating trees since ancient days. Indeed, some of the earliest carvings of trees can be found on the British Isles dating back to 2000 BC.

The Druids believed that trees were actually ancestors to man, and as such served as a beautiful and mystical connection to other lives. The Celtic alphabet was created by naming each character after a special tree expressing the belief that true wisdom comes from the trees themselves. The Tree of Life symbol is present in almost all cultures and religions. It may represent wisdom, fertility, immortality, and strength. The deep roots and outstretched branches serve as a visual and constant reminder of the connections between heaven and earth. Certainly trees are also revered for what they give: shelter, food, and warmth. They are celebrated and respected through art, music, story and tradition. And,of course, in Irish poetry-

“Beloved, gaze in thine own heart; the holy tree is growing there."

-William Butler Yeats