What Is the Origin of Flowers at Funerals?

It has become commonplace to send flowers to the bereaved family or to a funeral. So common, in fact, that families that do not want flowers will specify if they are not wanted with "in lieu of flowers" notices requesting donations to a favored charity instead. Flowers have played a role in funeral rituals for thousands of years.

Ancient Use

According to the Wyoming Funeral Directors Association, Neanderthal burial sites from approximately 60,000 B.C.E. have been found with pollen and flower fragments next to the bodies. Some researchers believe that the presence of flowers is simply a coincidence, or at best, an attempt by early man to mask the odor of the burial cave. Anthropologist Jeffrey Schwartz believes scientific evidence supports the theory that flowers found at such sites were placed there deliberately and indicate "purposeful, contemplated burial practices."

Practical Use

In early years, the use of flowers at funerals was to a great extent a matter of practicality. Prior to the 1800s, when embalming started to become common, flowers were a way to mask the inevitable odors of death. Texts as ancient as the Talmud make reference to using fragrant flowers and spices in this manner. Todd W. Van Beck writes of the 1874 funeral of President Andrew Johnson. By the time the funeral was held, the funeral director was forced to close the casket and surround it with masses of flowers before the funeral could proceed.

Symbolic Use

When the practice of embalming became common, the use of flowers at a funeral became largely symbolic. Van Beck refers to the "In the Garden" movement that became popular after 1914, when C. Austin Miles wrote an immensely popular funeral hymn by the same name. It became popular for funeral homes to arrange chapels to appear as an indoor garden, sometimes even creating elaborate solariums with indoor waterfalls, plants and flowers.

Types

Funeral flowers take several different forms. One is the circular wreath, chosen as a symbol of eternal life, or the circle of life. The spray is also a traditional form. A spray is a one-sided linear arrangement designed to be displayed on an easel stand. Another option is what florists call an inside piece. The inside piece is a small arrangement, intended to be displayed inside the open lid of a casket. Last, funerals often feature a casket spray or funeral spray, usually purchased by the family. As it sounds, a casket spray is a collection of cut flowers that is draped over the casket itself.

Jewish Custom

While not prohibited, Jewish funeral traditions do not include flowers. Instead, mourners are encouraged to make charitable contributions, preferably to a Tzedakah fund (a charitable organization) important to the family. Jewish funerals are traditionally kept simple, to symbolize that all people are equal in death. In Orthodox custom, mourners place a pebble or small stone on the grave to pay respects.

Islamic Custom

Islamic funerals have also traditionally emphasized simplicity. Flowers are often discouraged at the gravesite, along with tombstones and mementos, but are not forbidden. Since the different sects of Islam vary in their beliefs, it may be wise to consult with the family before sending flowers.

References

• What the Bones Tell Us; Jeffrey Schwartz; 1997
• The Dodge Magazine; The History, Value and Benefit of Funeral Flowers; Todd W. Van Beck; 2007
• Bridge Beyond