Gifting flowers has a long and rich history that spans across different cultures and centuries. The tradition of giving flowers dates back to ancient civilizations. In Ancient Egypt, flowers were used as offerings to the gods and placed in tombs for the deceased. This practice symbolized respect and remembrance.
Similarly, the Ancient Greeks and Romans were fond of using flowers to convey emotions, especially in the form of wreaths or garlands during festivals and events. Roman lovers often gifted each other flowers as a romantic gesture, setting a precedent for modern-day gifting of blooms in relationships.
Victorian Era's Origin
Fast forward to the Victorian Era, and we see the rise of "floriography" - the language of flowers. The Victorians, known for their emphasis on modesty and restraint, used flowers as a subtle way to express emotions that would otherwise remain hidden. Each flower had a specific meaning, from declarations of love to offers of friendship or sympathy. This symbolic use of flowers allowed individuals to communicate through bouquets, often sending unspoken messages of affection or regret. Books on floriography became popular during this time, making the art of gifting flowers more thoughtful and detailed.
Gifting In Asia
In China and Japan, flowers are imbued with rich meanings, with each bloom holding a specific significance. In China, gifting flowers has its origins in Confucianism, where flowers are often used in rituals as offerings. Flowers are also an essential part of gift-giving in everyday life, representing good fortune, luck, or gratitude; for example, the lotus symbolizes purity and enlightenment. However, in some Asian cultures, the wrong flower or color can convey unintended meanings: for instance, white flowers, especially chrysanthemums, are often associated with funerals and mourning in many East Asian countries, making them inappropriate for festive occasions.
Similarly, Japan’s hanakotoba (the Japanese language of flowers) assigns specific meanings to different blooms, much like Victorian floriography. Gifting flowers such as the cherry blossom represents fleeting beauty and the transient nature of life, deeply resonating with the Japanese philosophy of mono no aware - the awareness of the impermanence of things. These cultural nuances make flower gifting in Asia a thoughtful practice, rooted in tradition and sensitivity.
Nowadays
Today, while we might not always think about the symbolic meanings behind every flower, gifting flowers remains a universal way to express emotions. Whether it's to celebrate love, friendship, condolences, or congratulations, flowers convey feelings that words sometimes cannot. For instance, the rose has become a universal symbol of love and passion, deeply rooted in traditions dating back to Venus, the Roman goddess of love.
Flowers and Festivals
Flowers are also significant in various festivals, such as Valentine's Day, where roses dominate, or Mother's Day, when lilies and carnations are the go-to choices. Beyond these occasions, flowers are gifted simply to brighten someone's day, making them an eternal expression of goodwill and care.
Every time you gift flowers, remember you're participating in a centuries-old tradition that connects us to our past while expressing the emotions of today! Curious about what your favorite flower symbolizes? You might be surprised at the hidden meanings behind your bouquet!
