In recent times, many of our cultures are beginning to respect and value trees with a renewed gusto. Most of this is from an environmental standpoint and a desire from self preservation. After all, if they go, we go.
But most people enjoy trees. They add value to our cities and properties, and provide food for our families. A well known tree can become like a friend, providing shade and comfort through a lifetime.
For others, some trees hold a deeper significance. We're all familiar with the squirrels and birds that take up residence in them, but some cultures have stories of mythological creatures taking up residence in them. I thought this guy was rather notable:
From the Philippines, we have the Kapre. Much larger and a lot grislier than your ordinary man, they apparently sit in the tops of large trees and smoke, wanting to attract the attention of humans, whom they can then prey on.
It seems these beings belong in the 'Bigfoot' category, largely believed to be local lore, but with some claiming to have seen them.
Among some tribes in India, the Sal Tree is revered and celebrated in the Sarhul festival.
From Worship of Sal Tree - Sarhulfestival.org :
And some cultures fight to keep their tree lore alive. In South Korea, the Dangsannamu was worshipped in some villages as a village guardian. Though there are protections in place for these trees now, many were lost in the 70s when the government sought to dispel superstition, and some from Christians trying to discourage the practice.
Is there any tree lore or festivals in your area? Are there any tree stories that are dear to your heart?
Hoping @Quintessence or @The Hammer might weigh in here, as I know Druidry is full of tree lore.
But most people enjoy trees. They add value to our cities and properties, and provide food for our families. A well known tree can become like a friend, providing shade and comfort through a lifetime.
For others, some trees hold a deeper significance. We're all familiar with the squirrels and birds that take up residence in them, but some cultures have stories of mythological creatures taking up residence in them. I thought this guy was rather notable:
From the Philippines, we have the Kapre. Much larger and a lot grislier than your ordinary man, they apparently sit in the tops of large trees and smoke, wanting to attract the attention of humans, whom they can then prey on.
It seems these beings belong in the 'Bigfoot' category, largely believed to be local lore, but with some claiming to have seen them.
Among some tribes in India, the Sal Tree is revered and celebrated in the Sarhul festival.
From Worship of Sal Tree - Sarhulfestival.org :
Sarhul festival is celebrated by the tribes of Jharkhand, specially the Munda, Ho, Santhal and Oraon, who are agricultures by profession and follow Sarnaism, the indigenous religion of the tribes. The role of Sal Tree in Sarhul festival is very significant. The word Sarhul has been derived from two words ‘Sar’ which means Sarai or seed of Sal tree and “Hul” means worship. Thus, the real meaning of Sarhul is worship of the Sal tree. This tribal festival celebrated annually is also known as "Ba Parb" or festival of flowers. These tribes being close to nature dedicate this festival to Mother Nature. In the Sarhul festival, the Oraon tribe worships Lord Dharmesh and Mother Nature thanking them for the blessings they bestow upon all the living beings on earth.
And some cultures fight to keep their tree lore alive. In South Korea, the Dangsannamu was worshipped in some villages as a village guardian. Though there are protections in place for these trees now, many were lost in the 70s when the government sought to dispel superstition, and some from Christians trying to discourage the practice.
Is there any tree lore or festivals in your area? Are there any tree stories that are dear to your heart?
Hoping @Quintessence or @The Hammer might weigh in here, as I know Druidry is full of tree lore.