What is The Meaning of Lilies?

Flowers, these beautiful creatures of nature are truly mesmerizing in many ways. Did you know that every flower symbolizes something unique? Indeed, they do. We often get lost in their bewitching beauty that we forget to ponder: where do they come from? What do they symbolize? Hence, what is the perfect situation to get somebody that specific flower or a bouquet? This article will explore the meaning of lilies, origins, symbolism and mythical links. 

In his famous poem, Serenade, Oscar Wilde asks: Is that my Lady’s lily hand? Did it sound unnatural or strange? In poetry, the word lily is often used as an adjective. According to Oscar Wilde, his lady’s hand resembles a lily in fairness, purity, or fragility. These are the three most commonly known symbols behind the flower lilies. 

 

Origins of “Lily”

Let’s begin our exploration with deciphering the word “Lily”. The first known use of the word lily was before the 12th century. In old English, they used the word lilie, deriving from Latin lilium. In the 15th century, Lily became an adjective. The interesting fact about the word is that a lot of female names throughout the continents were inspired by its variations. These names are Susanna, Susan, Suzette. Hard to see correlation with lilies? That’s because the original word was borrowed from Hebrew - Shoshannah. Now, you can clearly see the relation between these names and the flower lily. 

 

What Do Lilies Symbolize?

Fairness, purity, and fragility are the three most well-known and commonly used symbols. Other variations are mostly under the same 3-word umbrella. For example, lilies in China are known as new-year flowers. In Chinese, the pronunciation of lily is Baihe, which means "love for all seasons", as a result, they become the perfect embodiment of eternal love and happiness that knows no seasons and limits! 

 

Different Color Lilies and Their Meanings

Lilies stand out with their bright color variations. Every single one of them carries their own unique meaning.

White Lily: symbolizing purity and rebirth. They can serve as both wedding and sympathy flowers. Weddings can be viewed as a rebirth, a start of a new life for two people getting married. While, for example, in Christianity, death marks a return to the primary innocence - hence, pure white lilies.

Pink Lily: often serve as symbols of femininity in a subtle sense. They are believed to bring childlike joy and pure romantic feelings. As a result, boyfriends often buy pink lilies for their new girlfriends in the early stages of relationships. 

Red Lily: just like red roses, red lilies symbolize love, romance, and passion. They are often given as a romantic gesture or to express deep feelings of love and desire.

Yellow Lily: yellow is the color of joy, happiness, and positivity. And so are the yellow lilies! People often get yellow lilies to celebrate new beginnings, friendships, and generally the happiest moments of our lives. 

Orange Lily: according to the color theory that has a direct correlation with flower symbolism, orange is associated with confidence, energy, enthusiasm. 

Blue Lily: blue is the rarest color in nature, so are the blue lilies. Because of their rarity, they can symbolize uniqueness. But traditionally they are the flowers of harmony, tranquility, calmness, and relaxation. 

Purple Lily: representing royalty, elegance, and admiration, purple lilies can convey a sense of admiration and respect. They can serve as a demonstration of respect and gratitude, making the perfect thank you flowers.

 

Lilies in Mythos

Lilies have been a part of different cultures and mythologies. Let’s have a look at a few of them:

Greek Mythology: In Greek mythology, lilies are associated with various gods and goddesses. For example, lilies are said to have sprung from the milk of Hera, the queen of the gods, during her breastfeeding of Hercules. Additionally, the lily is often depicted in association with Apollo, the god of the sun, music, and poetry, symbolizing purity and renewal.

Christianity: In Christian symbolism, the white lily is often associated with the Virgin Mary, symbolizing her purity and chastity. It is frequently depicted in religious art, particularly in representations of the Annunciation, where the angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will conceive Jesus.

Japanese Culture: In Japan, lilies, particularly the daylily (Hemerocallis), are associated with transient beauty and the passage of time. They are often featured in traditional Japanese poetry and art, symbolizing the ephemeral nature of life.

Persian Culture: In Persian culture, lilies, in particular water lilies symbolize spiritual growth. According to Persian legend, the goddess of birth and water, Anahita, was created from a lotus bloom. Lilies are actually the national flowers of Iran. 

 

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the symbolism behind lily flowers is immense and worth understanding. We hope the article gave you enough information to pick your next flower bouquets thoughtfully. After all, the gift has a whole different appeal to it when it’s chosen with precision and thoughtfulness. To get the freshest, vividly colorful, and heavenly-smelling lily bouquets in Canada, you should contact Blossom Shop today. If you're in the area, don't miss out on checking out flowers Thunder Bay for more beautiful arrangements. Let our lilies speak for you through words that are often hard to find!

To get the freshest, vividly colorful, and heavenly-smelling lily bouquets in Canada, you should contact Blossom Shop today. Let our lilies speak for you through words that are often hard to find! 

 

FAQs:

1. How long do lilies last? 

Lilies typically last between 7 to 14 days after being cut, depending on their care and environment. To maximize their lifespan, keep them in freshwater, trim the stems regularly, and place them in a cool location away from direct sunlight and drafts.

2. What are the best flowers for a funeral? 

Lilies are among the most popular flowers for funerals due to their association with purity and the restored innocence of the soul of the deceased. Other common choices include roses, chrysanthemums, and carnations, each symbolizing different aspects of love, respect, and remembrance.

3. Where in Ontario can I buy a bouquet of lilies? 

You can purchase a bouquet of lilies at Carleton Place Floral, where we offer a wide variety of fresh, beautifully arranged lilies perfect for any occasion. Visit our website or stop by our shop to find the perfect bouquet.

4. What color can the lilies be? 

Lilies come in a variety of colors, each with its own unique meaning:

• White lilies symbolize purity and rebirth.
• Pink lilies represent femininity, joy, and romance.
• Red lilies convey love, passion, and deep emotions.
• Yellow lilies signify joy, happiness, and new beginnings.
• Orange lilies reflect confidence, energy, and enthusiasm.
• Blue lilies are rare and symbolize uniqueness, harmony, and tranquility.
• Purple lilies denote royalty, elegance, and admiration.