The tree of life, also associated with the world tree, cosmic tree and tree of knowledge, is in many cultures throughout the world and human history. A common theme is of a sacred tree that spiritually represents a connection with divinity and all forms of creation. Strong in Celtic tradition the ancient Celts called the tree of life, crann bethadh and it symbolizes natures forces combining to create balance and harmony.
Sometimes the tree of life refers to an actual physical tree. In Bahrain, an island country in the Persian Gulf, there is a four hundred year old tree called Shajarat-al-Hayat. There are some people that believe this is where the Garden of Eden existed and thousands of people come to Bahrain every year to see this tree. The baobab trees, native to the African savanna, are a symbol of life because they thrive and provide food, water and materials in places where little else can survive.
“As buds give rise by growth to fresh buds, and these, if vigorous, branch out and overtop on all sides many a feebler branch, so by generation I believe it has been with the great Tree of Life, which fills with its dead and broken branches the crust of the earth, and covers the surface with its ever-branching and beautiful ramifications.”
Charles Darwin (1809-1882)