The symbolism of lilies

Photo by Kayla Minor

(edited by Juliana Panqueba)

By Kayla Minor

Lilies, with their elegant petals and striking beauty, have long been associated with some of life’s most significant and transformative events. These flowers carry deep symbolic meaning from births to weddings and funerals, representing purity, renewal, eternal love, and remembrance. Their presence in such moments speaks to their timeless ability to convey emotion and add beauty to pivotal life stages (Bouqs). 

One of the most prominent associations of lilies is with new beginnings. Their vibrant colors and fresh blooms are often linked to the start of life, making them a common choice for baby showers and the celebration of births. The white lily symbolizes purity and innocence, making it an ideal flower to welcome a new life. Its delicate petals evoke a sense of calm and renewal, reflecting the fresh start that a child represents in a family’s life. Lilies are often incorporated into birth announcements or nursery decor as a symbol of hope and a promising future.  

Lilies have long been associated with themes of fertility and rebirth, making them a popular flower for celebrating new life and honoring those who have passed. Their presence at birth symbolizes the arrival of new beginnings, while at funerals, they represent the hope for renewal in the afterlife. A well-known origin story of the lily comes from Greek mythology, where the gods Zeus and Hera are involved. The tale goes that Zeus fathered a child, Hercules, with a mortal woman and wanted Hera to nurse him to grant Hercules divine power (Bouqs).  Lilies have also earned a significant place in wedding traditions around the world. The calla lily, with its elegant, trumpet-shaped bloom, is especially popular for weddings, symbolizing magnificent beauty and eternal love. 

One of the most poignant roles lilies play is in memorializing loved ones who have passed away. The Easter lily, with its white, trumpet-shaped flowers, is especially significant in funeral settings, symbolizing the restored innocence of the soul of the deceased and their transition to eternal life. This symbolism is particularly strong in Christian traditions, where the Easter lily represents the resurrection of Christ. In this context, lilies offer comfort, suggesting peace, renewal, and the continuation of life beyond death. They are often used in funeral arrangements, standing as a symbol of the enduring memory of a loved one and the hope of a peaceful afterlife. 

Lilies’ association with important life events reflects their universal symbolism of purity, beauty, renewal, and remembrance. Whether celebrating the joy of new life, the commitment of marriage, or honoring the memory of a loved one, lilies can express deep emotions and mark significant transitions. These flowers are more than just decorative; they embody the essence of life's most meaningful moments, offering a timeless way to commemorate and honor them.