Lilies are adored by many for their elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers that stand tall on sturdy stems. But beyond their beauty, lilies carry deep symbolic meanings. They represent love, purity, fertility, and rebirth, with each color of lily holding its own unique significance. Let's explore the profound symbolism of the lily flower, including its cultural associations and the meanings associated with different flower colors.
Understanding Lilies
Lilies belong to a genus of flowering plants comprising over 100 distinct species. These perennial plants grow from bulbs and produce exquisite trumpet-shaped flowers each year. The word "lily" finds its roots in the Greek word "leírion."
While the term "lily" typically refers to the "true lilies" within the Lilium genus, it is also commonly used to describe other plants with lily-like flowers or foliage. Some examples include the calla lily, trout lily, and lily of the valley.
True lilies are native to temperate regions across the globe, including parts of North America, Europe, and Asia. Today, lilies can be found flourishing in various corners of the world. Varieties such as Stargazer lilies and Turk's cap lilies are popular choices for gardens and bouquets. Some lilies emit strong fragrances, while others have more subtle scents.
The Symbolism of Lilies
Now that we have an understanding of lilies, let's delve into the meaning behind these exquisite flowers. In essence, lilies symbolize love, innocence, purity, fertility, and rebirth.
Love
If you're searching for love, look no further than the lily flower. These beautiful blooms are emblematic of pure and eternal love. Perhaps this symbolism stems from the lily's ability to resurface year after year, or maybe it relates to their captivating flowers and intoxicating fragrance. Regardless, lilies are a wonderful way to express love. They make perfect gifts for anniversaries, weddings, or any occasion filled with love. You can even order lilies online just to show your affection.
Innocence
When you gaze at a lily, you'll notice the perfectly arranged delicate petals. These petals represent innocence untainted by the outside world. The symbolism of innocence in lilies may be connected to why Christians consider the lily as a symbol of the Virgin Mary.
Fertility and Rebirth
Lilies have long been associated with fertility and rebirth. They are often used to celebrate the arrival of newborns into the world. Additionally, lilies are commonly chosen as funeral flowers as a way to wish the departed a peaceful afterlife, given their connection to rebirth.
One of the most popular origin stories surrounding lilies revolves around fertility and rebirth. It involves the gods Zeus and Hera. Legend has it that Zeus had an affair with a mortal woman, who later gave birth to their son Hercules. As Hercules was half-mortal, Zeus wanted Hera to breastfeed him to grant him divine powers. However, Hera rejected the child and refused to nurse him.
Zeus, determined to have his son gain the goddess's powers, sneaked Hercules onto Hera's breast while she slept. Upon awakening, Hera was furious and flung the baby away. As her breast milk scattered, white lilies emerged from the ground in its place, symbolizing rebirth.
The association between lilies and fertility is also present in other cultures. The ancient civilizations of Babylonia and Assyria connected the meaning of the lily flower to Ishtar, the goddess of fertility and war.
Purity
Lily flowers, particularly white lilies, are often regarded as symbols of purity. This is why they are commonly used in events like weddings and baptisms. Many Christians associate lilies with purity and relate them to the Virgin Mary, symbolizing her purity, humility, and her role as the mother of Jesus. In Christian art, Mary is often depicted holding a white lily as a representation of her purity.
The association between white lilies and the Virgin Mary extends to the story of the Annunciation, where Mary's acceptance of God's plan is seen as a pure and humble act. Consequently, white lilies are frequently used as decorations during Christian holidays like Easter and Christmas, carrying profound spiritual significance.
Symbolism of Lilies by Flower Color
While we've already discussed the general symbolism of lilies, it's important to remember that each color of lily has its own unique meaning. Understanding the symbolism behind each color can help you select the appropriate flower for different occasions.
White Lilies:
White lilies symbolize purity, rebirth, innocence, and fertility. They are often associated with Easter and represent Jesus's resurrection. These flowers are commonly used in baptisms, funerals, weddings, and other events. White Easter lilies are also quite popular. Additionally, white lilies are suitable gifts for occasions that signify significant changes, such as starting a new job, finalizing a divorce, or moving to a new state.
Pink Lilies:
Pink lilies symbolize gentle love, femininity, and sweetness. They represent a pure form of love that exists between a parent and child or close friends, rather than passionate romance. Pink lilies are wonderful gifts for friends' birthdays or to uplift and bring joy to loved ones going through a tough time.
Red Lilies:
Red lilies symbolize passion and romance. While red roses are the most iconic symbol of passionate love, red lilies can also convey strong feelings. They are perfect for expressing love and devotion on special occasions, such as wedding anniversaries or Valentine's Day.
Orange Lilies:
Orange lilies signify positivity and accomplishment. With their bright and confident color, they are often associated with success. Various types of lilies, such as daylilies and Turk's cap lilies, come in orange variations. Orange lilies make excellent congratulatory gifts for graduations, new jobs, and new homes.
Yellow Lilies:
Yellow lilies represent joy, happiness, and new beginnings. They are available in different varieties, including yellow Asiatic and oriental lilies. These flowers are associated with feelings of happiness, making them perfect to wish someone a speedy recovery or a happy birthday. Additionally, their connection to new beginnings makes them suitable for occasions like starting a new job or housewarming parties.
Explore More Flower Meanings:
Now that you understand the symbolism of lilies, which signifies purity, rebirth, and fertility, you can delve into the meanings of other types of flowers too. We have informative guides on orchid flower symbolism and lotus flower symbolism to help you expand your knowledge.
Once you've discovered the flower that conveys the perfect message, it's time to order a bouquet! la Fleur d'Harlem offers a convenient way to order online. There's no excuse not to send flowers to everyone on your list. In addition to lily bouquets, we also offer arrangements that include seasonal florals and other favorite flowers of your choice.