A garden bed is usually considered incomplete without the presence of trumpet-shaped, gorgeous and fragrant lilies. Beautiful in all forms, lilies are quite versatile flowers that have been revered for centuries. In fact, this showstopper holds a special place in various cultures and religions, representing everything from purity, rebirth, passion and devotion. So, before you take Lily lightly and move on, let’s dive deeper and unearth the fascinating stories this flower holds -

A Journey Through Time: The Lily's Ancient Roots

The lily's history is as rich as its colours. Its name is believed to have originated from a Greek word meaning ‘pure white,’ hinting at the association this flower has had with innocence for millennia. 

Egyptians linked lilies to rebirth and displayed them in hieroglyphs and tomb paintings.  Do you know? Across the Aegean Sea, in ancient Greece, the lily was associated with Hera, the queen of the gods and represented motherhood and femininity.

Lily Flowers in Full Bloom: Symbolic Meanings Around the World

Fast forward to the 21st century, lilies continue to hold a powerful presence in almost every culture. Know about some of the interesting connections below -

• Christianity: The white lily, often known as the Easter lily, represents purity and the Virgin Mary. You will commonly find these flowers during Easter celebrations.

• China: In Chinese culture, lilies are a sacred flower that is looked upon as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune, majorly if their bulbs flower during Chinese New Year or Spring Festival (春节). They even give a shout out to the hundred years of love and harmony, making them popular wedding flowers. 

Fun fact:  The number eight is considered lucky in China and since the Chinese word for ‘lily’ sounds similar to ‘eight,’ these flowers get an extra boost of symbolism.

• Japan: In the Land of the Rising Sun, lilies represent purity and rebirth. However, the color plays a vital role in Japanese culture such as white lilies being a symbol of purity and tiger lilies symbolizing pride and passion.

• Hinduism: Here, lilies are associated with Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music and the arts. They are often offered during festivals like Vasant Panchami, which celebrates spring.

• Islam: Lilies, though not as frequently mentioned as other flowers in Islamic texts, hold a peaceful connotation. They are sometimes linked to concepts like serenity and tranquillity. Their white color can symbolize purity and cleanliness, which are important aspects of the Islamic faith.

Beyond Borders: The Language of Lilies

Now that we know that lilies hold deep cultural significance, their various colours also convey different messages -

• White Lilies: The white lily surpasses all others when it comes to representing purity and innocence. It is commonly associated with weddings, new beginnings and the Virgin Mary in Christianity. Also, white lilies as funeral flowers mark the deceased's return to a state of innocence.

• Pink Lilies: If you want to whisper sweet nothings effortlessly, do it with a bouquet of pink lilies. After all, pink lilies are a symbol of sympathy, affection and a gentle form of gratitude. A bouquet of pink lilies can express your heartfelt "thank you" or a message of concern for someone going through distressing times.

• Red Lilies: Representing deep love, fiery desire and unwavering passion, a bouquet of red lilies helps make a passionate statement. A single red lily speaks volumes, declaring your love in a bold and unmistakable way.

• Yellow Lilies: Spread a burst of sunshine in their life with a cheerful bouquet of yellow lilies. Such an arrangement is the right fit to convey the feelings of joy, friendship and good luck. A bouquet of yellow lilies also sends a message of optimism and well-wishes. 

• Orange Lilies: The very first choice for garden pairings, orange lilies are no less than an explosion of energy and enthusiasm. A bouquet of orange lilies can be a pick-me-up for someone feeling down or a way to congratulate them on a bold achievement.  Think of them as a burst of fireworks, igniting excitement and a zest for life.

So, the next time you choose lilies, don’t forget to consider the color and the message you want to convey. 

Lily Language: More Than Just a Pretty Bloom

Please note that lilies flowers aren't just about aesthetics; they've also found their way into literature and art.  In William Shakespeare's play ‘Hamlet,’ Ophelia carries lilies, symbolizing her innocence and purity.  

You might have not noticed but lilies are also depicted in famous paintings by artists like Vincent van Gogh and Claude Monet, adding a touch of elegance and symbolism to their art.

In Conclusion: A Lily for Every Occasion

From ancient mythology to modern-day bouquets, lily's charm and symbolism continue to captivate everyone. Whether you're looking for a flower to express love, celebrate a new beginning or simply just because, the lily, with its rich history and diverse meanings, will assist your words better than anyone else. 

So, the next time you're looking to send a message with flowers, consider the language of lilies - a bloom that speaks volumes.

Wait, There’s More!

Wondering where to find the perfect, freshest and most exotic lilies? Look no further than Rose Charms, one of the top-rated flower delivery service providers in the UAE. On our website, you will come across stunning lily bouquets, centrepieces and gift combos.

The best part is that our breathtaking lily flowers are available in every colour imaginable. So, visit Rose Charms today to surprise your loved ones with a masterpiece that will enchant them.