NATIONAL FLOWERS

Dunstan Times, Issue 3516, 6 April 1931, Page 6

NATIONAL FLOWERS

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE The depth of significance surrounding certain flowers which have been chosen by the various nations as their national emblems, is not only a fascinating study, but an educational one, more so when we delve into the traditions which underlie each individual selection. Ever since the earliest times flowers have been the source of symbols and legends, figuring conspicuously in all sorts of superstitions, beliefs, religious, military, and festive ceremonials. Even in Biblical literature there are many allusions to floral symbols. China once possessed a complete alphabet based entirely on floral terms, and on the monuments of Egypt and Assyria there are still found remnants of a code of floral caligraphy whose meanings are indecipherable. EGYPT’S SACRED LILY.

In Egypt the sacred lily or lotus has for many centuries played a vital part in all their religious beliefs. It is consecrated to their gods, and Crisis, their most important deity, is portrayed with a wreath of these huge, gorgeous blossoms about his head. It also figures strongly in all sorts of decorations, and is frequently painted on walls and carved on the doors of temples. Therefore it was long ago recognised as Egypt’s national emblem. Just why the lotus holds such superstitious meaning in the minds of the yellow-skinned races as it has done for many thousands of years is difficult to analyse. In India, similar to Egypt, it is interwoven closely with the nation’s religion, being worshipped as a sacred emblem of mystery. It is also believed that Brahma was born in its heart, and it is pictured as the chariot for their cupid, who is pinioned in its centre covered with flowers floating down the sacred Ganges. Strangers are welcomed with garlands, depicting hospitality, and shrines of favourite deities are decorated lavishly with this emblem, and, of course, used prominently in their architectural adornments.