Tree, Weeping Willow

WEEPING WILLOW TREE -  Weeping willow trees grow relatively quickly and are remarkably hardy.  Willows can lose a significant number of their branches due to cutting or storms and, as long as their root system remains unharmed they will fully regenerate. In addition, cuttings from willow trees can grow into new trees even after laying on the ground for months unattended, or when planted upside down in the soil.  For this reason, many associate willow trees with immortality and, when seen on a tombstone or grave marker, willows can symbolize life after death and the resurrection of the soul.   The most obvious meaning of a weeping willow would seem to be the “weeping” part…for mourning or grieving the loss of a loved one and ts drooping shape is reminiscent of a grieving human. 

In the Christian tradition, for example, the willow is mentioned several times in the Bible in varying contexts:

(KJV Lev 23:40) - And ye shall take you on the first day the boughs of goodly trees, branches of palm trees, and the boughs of thick trees, and willows of the brook; and ye shall rejoice before the Lord your God seven days.   (Representing Rejoicing)

(KJV Psalms 137:1-2) - By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept, when we remembered Zion.  (2) We hanged our harps upon the willows in the midst thereof.   (Representing Sadness)