The pine and cypress are a symbol of the eternal spirit of the deceased by the ancients. Its evergreen seasons and tenacious vitality remind people of the saying "evergreen". In ancient times, the literati and writers were especially fond of pine and cypress, believing that they could represent their eternal spirit. The spiky leaves of the pine cypress are also quite sturdy and not easily damaged, which makes it a good grave marker. Moreover, according to the concept of the ancients, the pine and cypress can remind future generations that they will not forget their ancestors and guard their cemeteries for generations.
ElmUsually inRuralAreas are very common. ElmSlow growth, but tenacious vitality. Its material is hard, it is not easy to be cut down, and it can grow back even after being cut. This makes:ElmIdeal as a marker for graves. In addition,ElmThe shape of the fruit is particularly similar to ancient coins, so it has the reputation of "cash cow". PlantingElmThere is a symbolic meaning of fortune and treasure next to the grave, and it is also one of the choices of people.
The willow tree is very tenacious and very easy to survive. Even without management, it can still grow luxuriantly. The pronunciation of the word "willow" and the word "stay" in the willow tree is similar, implying that the spirit of the deceased is immortal. Therefore, it is common to plant willow trees in front of graves. Whether it is the sight of willow hanging down or green willows, it makes people feel the hope of life and the auspicious atmosphere.
Peach treesIt represents longevity and auspiciousness, and is a common fruit tree. The peach is delicious and delicious, so it has the reputation of "longevity peach". However, planted next to the gravePeach treesis inappropriate. Because the meaning of the peach is to wish the elderly health and longevity, planting it next to the cemetery does not quite fit the situation. In addition,RuralIn the opinion of the peoplePeach treesThe branches have the effect of warding off evil spirits, and planting them next to the cemetery is a sign of disrespect for the ancestors. This is also the reason why the saying goes, "There is no tree wrapped around the vine behind the grave, and there is no peach blossom red in front of the grave".
Tsubaki tree, also known as stinky Tsubaki, isRuralTree species common in the region. The material of Tsubaki is tough, straight-grained, shiny, and extremely easy to process, making it an ideal wood for furniture and papermaking. However, it is not appropriate to plant a tsubaki tree next to the grave. Tsubaki trees grow quickly and have a well-developed root system, which makes them easy to damage the structure of the tomb. In addition, the Tsubaki tree has a short lifespan, generally no more than 50 years, making it less suitable as a grave marker. Therefore, the ancients believed that it was not advisable to plant Tsubaki trees next to graves.
Bamboo is traditional in ChinaCultureIt has a lofty status and is known as one of the "Four Gentlemen". The rhizomes of bamboo grow horizontally, grow quickly, and have a strong reproductive ability. Therefore, planting bamboo will turn into a bamboo forest within a few years, and these characteristics are prone to damage the structure of the tomb. Therefore, the ancients believed that it was not suitable to plant bamboo next to the grave.
The ancients attached great importance to the rules and etiquette of the tomb, and also had a clear understanding and attention to the tree species next to the tomb. Planting suitableTreesIn ancient times, it was seen as a respect and remembrance for the deceased, as well as a blessing for future generations. These tree species not only serve the role of marking the cemetery in form, but more importantly, through itTreesThe symbolic meaning conveys the deep nostalgia for the ancestors and the expectation for the descendants. They becameCultureThe carrier of inheritance embodies the cohesion of the family.
However, the traditional standard of measuring modern social changes and people's way of thinking has changed a lot. In modern society, people may choose more species for graveside trees with a focus on practicality, ecological environmental protection and personal preference. In addition to the traditional pines and cypresses,Elmand willows, people may also choose other tree species that are more suitable for the local environment and climatic conditions. For tree species that are not suitable for planting, people may think more about ecological balance andEnvironmental protectionfactors.
Still, we can draw some useful reflections from the traditional ideas of the ancients. Whether or not we insist on planting traditional iconic tree species, we should respect traditionCultureand sacrificial ceremonies, as well as reverence for the deceased and ancestors. No matter what kind of tree species you choose,CriticalIt is to keepQingming FestivalThe solemnity and seriousness of ancestor worship activities, as well as the spirit of filial piety of the family and society.
All in all, understand the traditionsCulturecustoms and sayings, including:Qingming FestivalThe traditional custom of going to the grave to worship ancestors and plantingTreesFor us to understand and inherit the Chinese traditionCultureThere are certain benefits. In contemporary society, we can choose suitable tree species according to our actual situation and preferences, but no matter what kind of tree species we choose, we should maintain respect for our ancestors with the mentality of respecting and commemorating the deceased. At the same time, we should also pay attention to ecological and environmental protectionEnvironmental protection, choose tree species that are adapted to the local environment and climatic conditions.