Fir Tree Symbolism and Meanings

Various types of fir trees (Abies) are often used as Christmas trees because they give off magical energy that is aligned with the Great Goddess and the spirit of forestry. Fir needles are flattened, relatively soft to the touch, and set apart from other kinds of coniferous trees.

Fir tree symbolism is a powerful metaphor for life and has been embraced by many cultures around the world for centuries. It signifies six key values that are deep-seated in its evergreen branches – immortality, endurance, strength, passion, rebirth, and protection – and reminds us of our youth and connection to the divine. In some faiths, the Fir Tree even represents their equivalent of the World Tree – an ancient sacred symbol connecting all living things to divine power.

Fir tree symbolism also encourages healing, purification and open-mindedness. Moreover, Fir trees have provided humanity with a range of invaluable resources such as needles used in construction or natural beauty products containing tannins within Fir bark that assist with inflammation and redness.

The fir tree symbolism can remind us to enjoy life, live bravely and appreciate what we have while nurturing our relationship with self, community and the divine.

Symbolism:	Immortality, endurance, strength, passion, rebirth, and protection
Divine Associations:	Artemis (Greek), Dziwitza and Boruta (Slavic), the Great Spirit (Native North American)
Astrological Association:	Pluto

About Fir Trees

The silver firs stand out among the spruces because of their disc-like, smoother leaf scars and cones that fall off when still attached to the branch. Most have a cone shape with linear needles for leaves that are usually flat. In some species, the female cones turn amazing hues of violet or purple when young.

Many firs are endangered because they’re sensitive to air pollution. The European silver fir (A. alba) is from the Alps and has smooth grey bark when young. Unfortunately, the last wild silver fir in Bavaria died early this millennium due to high levels of air pollution generally.

Practical Uses

Indigenous peoples in North America, such as the Paiute and Micmac, used fir boughs for flooring in sweat lodges and bedding when camping.

The Algonquin would shred roots to make cords and rope, while the Cree utilized the wood for paddles, toys, tent frames—even roofs and cabin walls. The resin from firs produces pitch which was waterproofed jackets amongst other things by Malecite and Ojibwa people groups.

European people in the Mediterranean and Alpine regions used spruce and fir trees in the same way. But these trees were not introduced to some areas, such as Britain, until after the Middle Ages.

The lightweight wood of the Greek fir (A. cephalonica) and Cilician fir (A. cilicica) were used to construct houses in Greece and Rome, as well as ships – the long, straight trunks of up to 90ft (27m) made them an ideal choice for ship masts.

Natural Healing

For centuries, people have been harnessing the benefits of spruce and fir for treating a plethora of ailments such as gout, rheumatism, respiratory infections, and more.

The high concentrations of resin and essential oils found in conifers (specifically in the buds) are what makes these trees so beneficial. If you’re looking to invigorate your circulation, try taking a spruce bath by boiling 6-7 ounces (150-200 grams) of needles in 1¾ pints (1 liter) of water before adding it to your bathtub.

Empowerment, creativity and healing are just a few of the benefits that come from using silver fir tree essence, which has been employed by various North American tribes – such as the Algonquin, Tsalagi, Kwakiutl, Bella Coola and Ojibwa – for centuries. In addition to being used as an antiseptics and dermatological aid, silver fir tree essence can also be used to treat coughs, tuberculosis and rheumatism.

Folklore, Myth and Symbol of the Fir Trees

In Slavic tradition, the forest Goddesses Dziwitza and Boruta commonly live in firs, while the King of the Forest resides in the oldest fir tree in that region.

Fir trees were considered sacred in ancient Greece and Phrygia, as they were associated with Artemis – the moon goddess who presided over childbirth. worshippers would wave fir boughs during a procession in her honor. Furthermore, fir trees were also believed to be the ‘birth tree’ of Adonis – god of the city Byblos and precursor to pre-dynastic Osiris of Egypt.

The idea of a vegetation spirit dying in the autumn and being resurrected in the spring was transferred by the peoples of the Near East to their fertility gods (such as Tammuz and Attis), who were seen as sons of the Great Goddess or Mother of the Universe (for example, Ishtar and Cybele). Evergreens have always been symbols of eternal life.

The accounts of the life of Jesus Christ have many similarities to other mythological stories from the same geographical region (Asia Minor and the eastern Mediterranean region). The major elements of these stories, such as death and resurrection, fit perfectly with the story of Jesus Christ.

The tradition of having a fir tree at Christmas dates back centuries to ancient times. This practice faded in Europe during the Christianization period, but was later revived in 18th-century Germany and has since spread across the globe.

Fir Tree Meanings and Symbols

Shadow Work

It can be helpful to sometimes look inward and bring our fears into the light. Fir trees have been used for centuries by people of all magic levels to symbolize this time of year.

Their needles point skyward, representing growth, rebirth, and new beginnings while their Sap is protective against negative energy—all perfect characteristics for an ally during difficult times.

Rebirth and Regeneration

The planet Pluto governs fir, which regenerates by destroying and falling apart. This cycle is like childbirth in that it demands great pain and a complete change of life for the parents and child.

The reason fir needles were burnt during childbirth was to reduce the pain and ensure a smooth transition for the child. Not unsurprisingly, Fir trees have been associated with Osiris (the Egyptian god of rebirth) as well as Artemis (the Greek goddess known for overseeing childbirth).

Abundance

Fir’s delicious fragrance and vibrant green appearance all year round speak to her abundant energy and ability to help us magnetize wealth.

Conclusion

All in all, fir trees are the perfect symbol for Christmas time. They have a long and storied history with many meanings that are all very relevant to the holiday season.

So when you’re picking out your tree this year, take a moment to think about what Fir trees mean and how they can add an extra layer of meaning to your decoration.