Lindnes were never just a tree like any other. The linden tree is known for its special meaning. Here you can find out what the plant is known for and what this tree stands for.
What is the significance of the linden tree?
The linden tree has a special meaning as a tree of love, a mother tree, and a symbol of gentleness. It had a cultural function as a place of assembly and court and was considered a protector from ghosts and demons.
What is the meaning of the name of the linden tree?
The name of the linden tree can also be translated asmild. The name linden tree goes back through Middle High German to the Old High German word “linta”. The tree with the mild scent already had a special meaning in Germanic times. Its wood was made into shields. The tree also served as a meeting place in many ways.
What cultural significance does the linden tree have?
The linden tree is considered the tree ofLove and the mother tree. This property is probably due primarily to the special scent of the linden blossom during the flowering period. W alther von der Vogelweide already sang about the linden tree in this capacity. In his poem “Under der linden” he created a lyrical monument to the tree of love.
What significance do linden trees have for ghosts?
For a long time, the linden tree was said to be able toward ward off ghosts. Because of this supposed effect against ghosts and demons, a linden tree was planted in the middle of every village for a long time. This tree became a central gathering place for communities throughout the Middle Ages. Both summer and winter linden trees are therefore widespread in Central European countries such as Germany.
What significance did village lime trees have in earlier centuries?
Dorflinden was used as a meeting place and as acourt. The use of the linden tree trunk as a place of justice dates back to the time of the Germanic tribes. They viewed the linden tree as the tree of the goddess Freya. The Germanic people thought that under the linden tree the truth would sensitively come to light. The word “subtle” is derived from the use of the tree as a court linden tree. They met sub tilia. So under the linden tree, whose botanical name is “tilia”.
Tip
The meaning and symbolism of the linden tree still have an impact today
The many meanings of the linden tree underline the special symbolism of the tree to this day. If you plant a linden tree in your garden, you will also benefit from this tree on a symbolic level.
