An old and beautiful legend has it that, at the time of the crucifixion, the dogwood was comparable in size to the oak tree. Because of its firmness and strength, it was selected as the timber for the cross, but to be put to such a cruel use greatly distressed the tree. Sensing this, the crucified Jesus in his gentle pity for the sorrow and suffering of all said to it: "Because of your sorrow and pity for my suffering, never again will the dogwood tree grow large enough to be used as a cross. Henceforth it will be slender, bent and twisted and its blossoms will be in the form of a cross -- two long and two short petals. In the center of the outer edge of each petal there will be nail prints -- brown with rust and stained with red -- and in the center of the flower will be a crown of thorns, and all who see this will remember."
Later,
Susan
9 comments:
i have heard that before. Our dogwoods are dead all thigns got kiled this year in the frost evne had some silver maples droop
A town near here has a dogwood festival every year, that includes a trailride. I love this beautiful little legend! - Barbara
I love the Dogwood....and the legend story.....but alas the freeze got mine this year....not sure we will have blossoms or even any leaves....we will see...but yours are beautiful....hugs from KY...Ora
Oh I've never heard that before! Linda
A beautiful story for a beautiful tree. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Sam
Beautiful tree...loved the story behind it...thanks for sharing Susan...many hugs and love,
Joyce
That photo, looks just like England.........And the story was fascinating.
Gaz
I love dogwoods, they are one of my favorite trees.
Your image has a calm, soothing feeling to it. I saw my first dogwood today in bloom....Spring in NY has finally arrived!
Peace~
Marie
The dogwood looks wonderful in the setting by the lake. I have never read that tale before. mark
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