The meaning and origin of the sacred tree motif, which represents a connection to the world of the gods

A sacred entity that represents a connection to the divine world

Since ancient times, trees have been considered sacred and mystical.

It has played an important role in mythology and religion in both the East and the West of the world.

A particularly famous one in games, manga, and novels is Yggdrasil, which appears in Norse mythology and is said to be the center or foundation of the world.

There are also sacred trees in Christian mythology, and one of them is the Tree of Knowledge, which bore the fruit of knowledge that Adam and Eve ate.

Another well-known sacred tree is the Tree of Life, which appears in the opening credits of the anime series Neon Genesis Evangelion.

Both are said to have grown in the Garden of Eden.

As a motif, the Tree of Knowledge is depicted as an apple tree, while the Tree of Life is depicted as an olive tree, palm tree, grape tree, etc.

As sacred trees, the olive symbolizes "peace," the palm symbolizes "victory," and the grapes symbolize "Christ."

From sacred beings to motifs of prosperity

Because trees are sacred, they are used as family trees showing the history of a family.

A family tree based on the sacred tree is designed on the wall of Sirius Black's home, which appears in the Harry Potter movies.

Family trees with a sacred tree motif are used to show the lineage and legitimacy of a family, so this design is fitting for the Black family, who believe in the legitimacy of the "28 Holy Clans" in the story.

In Japan, it is not used as a family tree, but it can be said to be used in the same way in that it represents prosperity and abundant fruitfulness (life).