Life is full of ceremonies: birthdays, religious holidays, Christenings, and graduations among many others. However, one of life’s ceremonies that is most often Tadacip overlooked is perhaps the most full of rich symbolism, and meaning: funerals.

Funerals represent an event that both mourns and celebrates the very meaning and significance of life. When exploring these events, we can find some of the most beautiful, historically-rich practices in any ceremony.

Funeral ceremonies have been found to date as far back as Neanderthal times. Homosapien remains which have been found in ancient caves have been discovered to be covered in a layer of pollen, which tells us that flowers were ceremoniously laid on the dead.

This proves that as far back as the beginning of the human species, we have been remembering and sanctifying the dead. One of the most historically symbolic aspects of a funeral which should not be overlooked, is that of flowers.

For instance, think about the symbolism behind funeral bouquets. In religious and even pagan beliefs, they are often thought to symbolize life, its birth and death.

Just as the flower blooms, it also dies. They are also so full of rich beauty, and can reflect the renewal or rebirth, since certain types appear to die, only to reemerge even more beautiful in the future.

In this way, they appear to reflect the concept of the resurrection-a belief that after death we live again. Ceremonies which honor the dead are rarely seen without flowers.

Whether they are arranged around a church, thrown into a grave site, placed in the hands of the dead, or worn on the wrists or clothing, this symbolism dates back to the ancient belief that nature is life.

In ancient times, flowers were traditionally used to counteract the smell of decomposition. This is no doubt the reason behind the use of pollen in the previously mentioned cave-man burials.

One of the most famous uses of foliage to mask the smell of bodily odor was that of our former President Andrew Johnson. Since his body was not embalmed, by the day of the funeral the smell was so palpable and offensive that they weren’t able to have an open casket.

Even with the casket closed, the smell was so strong that the undertaker placed armloads of blooms on top of and surrounding the casket to mask the smell. The result was a success, just long enough to hold the services.

Another way flora has adopted its way into these remembrances is through the use of a garden. A popular wake hymn, “In the Garden” by C. Austin Miles, sparked the movement of either outdoor remembrances, or indoor funerals with a garden backdrop.

Like walking in The Garden with Christ the Lord, those putting on the events wanted those that came to pay their respects to feel peace, security, and be reminded of the afterlife.

“Flower Ladies” played a historical role in traditional ceremonies as well. Like the role of the Pall Bearers, Flower Ladies were chosen with great care for a very special role.

These specific women would pick up different arrangements or baskets of flora which were placed around the room. They would then carry them surrounding the casket as it was carried from the church to the hearse.

They would then assist in replacing them at the actual cemetery or burial site. This tradition started in the mid-west, and while it has cialis free offer significantly decreased in use, is still practiced in some areas.

Sending arrangements to the families of those that have passed on is also an important part of death ceremony-culture. It is a gesture of love, respect, and remembrance.

It is a great way to send your love and support to those grieving, if for some reason you are unable to attend the actual event. However, sometimes you may see the phrase “in leau of flowers…” on an announcement or invitation you receive.

This does not mean that sending them is not wanted, but merely that there are other options. Some families would like donations send to start a foundation, or maybe a letter honoring the relationship you had with the deceased.

No matter what type of memorial event it is, you will find that foliage has a very important role to play in every aspect. Let it help you to ponder the significance of life, death, and an eternal renewal.

Author Bio: Terry Daniels has 20 years of experience in print and graphic design and has written hundreds of articles relating to funeral planning and family relationships and funeral programs.

Contact Info:
Terry Levitra Daniels
TerryDaniels09@gmail.com
http://enduringkeepsakes.com

Category: Culture and Society/Death and Dying
Keywords: funeral programs