The lily is one of the oldest plant species known. It has been found in Egyptian tombs dating back to 3500 BC.
The ancient Egyptians even had special names for different lily varieties, such as the white lily or ‘Ben-ed-dek’, and the blue lily or ‘Yassiet’.
The origin of the lily is still unclear. Some believe it comes from Asia, while others suggest Africa as its birthplace.
Some believe that it evolved spontaneously in Europe.
Regardless of its origins, it is evident that the biological diversity of this plant is immense with over 3,000 varieties identified to date.
It has been introduced around the world and forms an important part of many cultures and cuisines due to its symbolic meaning and value as a blossom for purity and love – a perfect symbol for Valentine’s Day!
What does the Bible say about white lilies?
In the Bible, there are many references to lilies, often associated with purity and innocence.
In 1 Kings 14:6 (KJV), Solomon makes a promise to God that he will establish an offering for the Lord of “the best silver and gold” from his temple’s treasuries.
Solomon continues to say that he will also offer “the first fruits of my ground unto the LORD”.
The Hebrew word for ‘ground’ is ‘karma’, which means a place where flowers grow; hence, flowers from the ground would be what Solomon offers as his first fruits. It is said that this was specifically referred to as white lilies.
Is the lily flower the symbol of purity?
The lily is a symbol of purity and love because of its symbolic meaning.
The flower represents the delicate nature of life, being a blossom for all creatures, including humans.
The flower takes on so many different shapes, colors, and sizes that it can be found in the wilds of almost every inhabited continent.
This versatility has given it an abundance of symbolism in cultures around the world. Lilies were also used as offerings to deities such as Isis and Hathor during ancient Egypt.\
It was also a popular flower for burial ceremonies and was sometimes used as part of royal regalia due to its status as a symbol of royalty during this period.
Why are lily flowers so special?
The lily flower is one of the most important symbols of love.
The ancient Egyptians believed that the lily would only grow when its owner was pure and true to his/her lover.
This led to the Egyptian custom of offering a pomegranate seed in a bowl of water while reciting wedding vows over it.
Today, lilies are still used as an important symbol of purity and love.
On Valentine’s Day, people often place these flowers in their partner’s bath water or on their pillow as a sign of love and devotion; sometimes even exchanging them with gifts such as perfume or chocolates made from the flower’s nectar.
How many types of lilies are there?
There are over 3,000 types of lilies have been identified to date.
This number is sure to grow as new varieties are discovered and developed.
The diversity of this plant is immense, with different shapes, colors, and sizes.
Lilies can be found in the wilds of almost every inhabited continent.
This versatility has given it an abundance of symbolism in cultures around the world.
Conclusion
The lily is a beautiful and versatile flower with a rich history dating back thousands of years. It has been revered by many cultures for its symbolic meaning and value as a blossom for purity and love.
Today, the lily is still an important symbol of these things, making it the perfect flower for Valentine’s Day. With over 3,000 types of lilies identified to date, there is sure to be a variety that everyone can appreciate.
