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The Mythical Cedar Tree Article
The Mythical Cedar Tree
from: Lawn and Garden MagicThe majesty and glory of cedar trees is of biblical proportions, figuratively and literally speaking. No other tree type has been mentioned in such high regard in the Holy Scripture than cedar family.
The cedar tree was described in the Book of Ezekiel as the only tree that could sustain the Israelites as they travelled through the desert. In many instances in the bible, this tree type was also used as a symbol for prosperity, what with its long life and elegant growth.
The cedar tree remains as enchantingly marvelous as it was when it was first observed in human history.
Shaped like a cone with rich, dark green foliage, cedars are often observed in cemeteries. There's an underlying reason for this, something which is more than the aesthetic merits of the elegance that cedars can provide.
Native Americans held strong beliefs about the cedar tree. Cherokee legends tell of a time, during the beginning of existence, when people prayed to the gods that night be taken away so that they could enjoy perpetual day. The gods obliged.
Soon enough, the people realized the terrible evil they had prayed for, as many members of their rank suffered, and even died, due to the ceaseless heat brought about by perpetual day. They pleaded with the gods once more, begging to return to the way they were. After a few years, the gods obliged once again, only this time, the gods left something on earth to remind the people of that chapter ... the cedar tree. Therefore, ever since, the Cherokees believed that cedars contained powerful spirits, namely, the spirits of the departed whom they should never forget.
This is why this tree type is also used as a symbol for death. Ever watch the TV show Six Feet Under? Notice that the opening credits picture a cedar tree above a grave.
Harmonizing the biblical mentions of the tree type, that which makes it a symbol of prosperity, with local folklores that associate it with death, we can say that cedars are also representative of the duality of life. We may prosper while we are alive, but once we leave this plane of existence, all is not lost. We can also leave memories behind, memories which may help other people prosper as well.