Different cultures around the world interpret funeral flowers in unique ways, reflecting their traditions, beliefs, and attitudes towards death and mourning. Here's an overview of how various cultures view and use funeral flowers:
Western Cultures
In Western countries, funeral flowers serve as a symbol of love, respect, and remembrance. Some common interpretations include:
Lilies: Symbolize the restored innocence of the departed soul and represent purity.
Roses: Convey love and respect. White roses signify innocence and purity, while red roses represent deep love and courage.
Carnations: Express love and admiration. White carnations symbolize pure love, while pink ones represent remembrance.
Chrysanthemums: In many European countries, they are exclusively associated with death and mourning.
Asian Cultures
Asian cultures have distinct interpretations of funeral flowers:
China: White flowers, particularly white chrysanthemums, symbolize mourning and death. The color white represents the spirit's journey into the afterlife.
Japan: White lilies and chrysanthemums are popular choices, conveying respect and grief. White and yellow chrysanthemums symbolize death and are commonly used in funeral rituals.
Korea: White flowers, including lilies and chrysanthemums, are predominant in Korean funerals.
Latin American Cultures
In many Latin American countries, funeral flowers are part of a vibrant celebration of life:
Mexico: During Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), marigolds are used extensively. Their bright orange and yellow hues are believed to guide the spirits of the deceased home.
Brazil: Roses and orchids are common, symbolizing love and beauty, honoring the richness of the deceased's life.
South African Traditions
In South Africa, particularly in Zulu tradition, white flowers like arum lilies or St. Joseph's lilies are associated with mourning and remembrance. They symbolize purity and innocence, reflecting the solemnity of the occasion.
Middle Eastern and African Traditions
In some Middle Eastern cultures, flowers may not be commonly used at funerals, with a preference for green plants or donations instead. African cultures vary widely, with some regions incorporating vibrant and colorful blooms to celebrate the life of the deceased.
Indigenous Australian Traditions
Indigenous Australian cultures often incorporate native flora in their mourning practices. Flowers such as waratahs, banksias, and wattle hold cultural significance and are used to honor traditions.
Hindu Traditions
In Hindu funeral ceremonies, marigolds and jasmine are often used. These flowers represent purity, spirituality, and serve as a farewell to the earthly realm.
Understanding these cultural differences is crucial when sending sympathy flowers or attending funerals in different parts of the world. It ensures that the gesture is respectful and appropriate within the context of the specific culture's mourning traditions.
Casket sprays, standing sprays, and funeral wreaths are usually purchased by the family although it is no uncommon for several friends to pitch in together and purchase a standing spray together. Friends of the family usually send a funeral basket (or urn) that is placed on the altar with the families funeral pieces.