Gyvybės medžio simbolika rytuose ir vakaruose
Life tree symbols in the east and west

Summary/Abstract: The concept Life tree sprung from the Ancient East. It is met in literature and art of Sumerians, Persians, Palestinians. According to the well-known epic of Gilgamesh, Life tree grows on Heaven and gives eternal life to Gods. Its images still remain in art. For example, Assyrian king stands in front of the life tree or the tree is surrounded by winged demons like griffins. The most lively symbol of life tree in Jewish culture is menorah – seven branch candlestick. Furthermore, Life tree is described in the Bible – the book Genesis, Apocalypse and elsewhere. Biblical image of Life tree came to the Greek world, Christianity from Jewish culture and symbolized the Saviour. Therefore, the Christ in European style churches was shown crucified on the leafy tree or his cross has been fancied with branches of trees or other plants. Such symbols of Christ had great influence upon the Lithuanian folk art.Tall crosses of the Lithuanian folk art of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th centuries have ornaments of plants and sun rays. This symbolizes the Christian Life tree. Due to originality and beauty of the Lithuanian crosses, this art is included into the world list of values under protection of UNESCO.

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