PLANTS NEAR THE GRAVE...WHY?

Why there are trees planted near the graves, infront of every single graveyard, and near the tomb itself? Is there a meaning to this? Is it only a muslim thing, or it is a universal thing? Well, there must be a meaning to this. It is not logical, right. I mean, the guy is dead, why would he care if there is a tree or even a garden near him.

Watching religious movies, there were always scenes where Arabs used to hang their wishes and vows in trees--something like cradles-- on their branches. Why the tree? What did they expect from it? (My apology to Arabs suck post but I feel it is not Arabs who suck, it is WE, as human, who suck. I personally admire Arab, especially before Islam, and their deep connection to nature.) Anyways, back to trees!

Tree bears the concept of life from ancient times, connexion between two worlds. The tree is rooted in earth, extend upwards reaching the sky, thus belonging to both spheres, as does human being. The feeling that life power manifests itself in the growth of a tree, fruits mature, cyclical renewal is really an astounding symbolisim. In religion, it is because of this tree that Adam was out of paradise (partner in the crime), but also paradise for those who did good, will be full of trees, this or that tree, won't matter at that time I suppose.

Speaking of paradise, it is natural that it will have eternal garden, boasting very special trees. Among the trees that Coran speaks of is Tuba tree (13:29). Its name is developed from the greeting 'Happiness': tuba to those pious.... A famous christian saying (to me at least), but found also in Coran. Likewise, the boundaries of the created universe are marked by the Sidra tree (sidrat al-muntaha), defines the limit of anything imaginable. This tree is mentioned in relation to the night journey of the prophet. It is the place where Gabriel couldn't pass beyond it and let the Prophet continue on his own.

Trees are not only related to paradise but also to hellfire. Remember the very first verse we learnt at school. The woman of AbuLahab and the hatab she carries. It is the dry twig of the trees that feed and ignite fire.

The idea of planting a tree on someone's grave is not only a civilized gesture. It is aslo thought particularly by sufis to lessen the punishment in the grave and console the dead person. The baraka of the tree can be transferred, as well as its bless. It is a replica of paradise. Paradise as an eternal garden in which every plant and tree sings the praise of God. Silent praise. Keep the company of the dead. Who are not dead dead. Eh!

Back to colours and in particlularly the colour green, the prophet's favourite. Green is always connected with paradise and positive, spiritual things, and those who are clad in green are angels and saints. That is why it is the colour of the prophet and his descendants, the latter would wear green turban.

Thus, it could be that the tree with its symbolisim, colour and mysteries create an ambiance for the dead in the grave. An ambiance that within it all the opposites unite and form a sacred melange.

All info. is from coran index. tracing of word tree. funny what can we find. Thanks, A.