The Significance of the Palm-the oldest cultivated tree. Many thought the Tree of Life would have been a palm tree. Palm Sunday owes its name to the 4th century observances in Jerusalem where the faithful assembled on the Mount of Olives. This is found in all the gospels. The palm tree is often considered the “Tree of Life.”
“They took palm branches and went out to meet Him, and cried out ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord, the king of Israel.’” John 12:13
Ancient Egyptians-a cluster of palm leaves signified new life. The palm leaves symbolized months, and the palm tree symbolized years
Hebrews-celebrated the Feast of Tabernacles by living in temporary shelters made of palm branches. It was to remind them of their ancestors who lived in the desert. Palms provided an oasis, food, shade. Palm branches became the symbol of welcome, public homage, and journey’s end. Solomon and Jeremiah referred to the city of Jericho as “the City of Palm Trees.” The palm tree was considered as a princely tree and a symbol of victory and well-being
Mediterranean peoples-the palm took on the symbolic significance of food, shelter, and fertility
Greeks-the palm tree was sacred to the Greek god Apollo.
Roman times-a palm leave was given as a symbolic reward or emblem for a victory in a competiton of skills and bravery. Waving palms and throwing them down onto the road. This comes from the Roman tradition of greeting war heroes. Palms were carried in triumphal processions.
Christianity-the palm leave symbolized the ultimate reward in heaven.
Christian art, frescoes, and stained glass windows-depicted-martyrs holding a palm. This symbolized their reward for their earthly achievements and accomplishments.
Matthew’s Gospel-The Jewish people waved and laid down palms for Jesus entry into Jerusalem. This symbolized the Jewish people’s belief in Jesus ultimate victory. This act was also an act of defiance against Roman occupation and authority
Book of Revelations-martyrs appear the throne of God and the Lamb with a palm in their hands.
Churchgoers are asked to takes the palms home as a reminder that Christ enters into their life daily