The Flower of Life Symbol: Meaning, Origins & Sacred Geometry

The Flower of Life is a potent symbol in sacred geometry, composed of multiple evenly-spaced, overlapping circles arranged in a hexagonal pattern. Dating back to Ancient Egypt, it is revered across cultures as the blueprint of creation and the source of all existence. This intricate structure is believed to contain the fundamental patterns of the universe, representing the interconnectedness of all life and the continuous, unified cycle of creation.

The Flower of Life symbol is a captivating geometric design made up of overlapping circles. Martha Bartfeld, an author of geometric art tutorial books, discovered this design independently in 1968. She described it as consisting of circles with a radius of 1 inch (25 mm). Each intersection of these circles serves as a new center. This design can expand infinitely, creating concentric hexagonal rings of circles.

FUN

Flower of Life Meaning

The Flower of Life meaning - Egypt Fun Tours

The meaning of the flower of life is significant in sacred geometry. It represents the interconnectedness of all life and the stages of creation. The initial stage is known as the Seed of Life, which consists of seven overlapping circles. This foundational shape symbolizes new beginnings and the essence of life itself. An overlapping circles grid is a geometric pattern that features repeating circles of equal radius in two-dimensional space. Commonly, these designs are based on circles centered on triangles, such as the Vesica piscis, or arranged in a square lattice pattern. The triangular grid of overlapping circles can extend indefinitely, forming hexagonal rings of 1, 7, 19, 37, 61, or even 91 circles.

FUN

Flower of Life Origin

The flower of life origin - Egypt Fun Tours

The Abydos Temple in Egypt is the oldest known site where overlapping circle patterns have been discovered. However, these patterns are classified as graffiti from the early Christian era. In contrast, the patterns found at the threshold of the palace of Assyrian King Aššur-bāni-apli in Dur Šarrukin are believed to be older.

Yet, we cannot confirm this with certainty. The patterns in Egypt are carved into granite columns, which are much more solid than the sandstone or limestone typically used for graffiti. This durability suggests that the Egyptian patterns may have been purposefully created rather than hastily inscribed.

flower of life - lotus flower - Egypt Fun Tours

Furthermore, the overlapping circles in the Flower of Life pattern often take the shape of lotus and papyrus flowers. These flowers held significant meaning as they were the national symbols of ancient Egypt. This connection may indicate that the Egyptian version of the Flower of Life is indeed original and native to its culture. While both sites feature overlapping circle patterns, the context and material used in Egypt suggest a deeper cultural significance.

Ancient Egyptian Lotus Flower

The Ancient Egyptian Lotus Flower The ancient Egyptian lotus flower holds a significant place in...

Related post
FUN

Flower of Life History

flower of life - lotus flower - Egypt Fun Tours

Historically, similar geometric patterns have appeared in various decorative arts since ancient times. The oldest known occurrence of the overlapping circles pattern dates back to the 7th or 6th century BCE. It was found on the threshold of the palace of Assyrian king Aššur-bāni-apli in Dur Šarrukin, now housed in the Louvre. Interestingly, five patterns of 19 overlapping circles were discovered on the granite columns at the Temple of Osiris in Abydos, Egypt, which is older. These patterns, drawn in red ochre, are faint and difficult to distinguish. They are considered graffiti and are not found in native Egyptian ornaments.

The Egyptian Scarab: Symbol of Rebirth, Protection, and Power (Dung beetle)

The Egyptian scarab stands as the enduring symbol of rebirth and regeneration in the ancient...
Related post
FUN

In England

In England, similar patterns were sometimes used as protective marks to keep witches away from buildings. Additionally, consecration crosses, which indicate points in churches anointed with holy water, also take the form of overlapping circles. In Islamic art, the Flower of Life pattern is one of several arrangements of circles used to create intricate geometric designs. These designs often include 6- and 12-pointed stars as well as hexagons, in a style known as Girih. The resulting patterns typically conceal the construction grid, presenting a beautiful design of interlaced strapwork.

In Europe

In Europe, patterns of seven overlapping circles can be found in Roman mosaics, such as those at Herod’s palace in the 1st century BC. The design later appeared in Gothic architecture and European folk art during the early modern period. High medieval examples include the Cosmati pavements in Westminster Abbey from the 13th century. Notably, Leonardo da Vinci discussed the mathematical proportions of this design.

The Egyptian Cartouche: Symbol of Royalty and Eternal Protection

Uncover the meaning of the ancient Egyptian cartouche, one of the most iconic symbols from...
Related post
FUN

The Flower of Life In modern times

The flower of life today - Egypt Fun Tours

In modern times, the term “Flower of Life” is associated with the New Age movement. It is commonly attributed to Drunvalo Melchizedek, who popularized it in his book The Ancient Secret of the Flower of Life (1999).

Today, the Flower of Life symbol appears widely in popular culture, including fashion, jewelry, tattoos, and decorative products. For instance, the album Sempiternal (2013) by Bring Me the Horizon features the 61 overlapping circles grid on its cover. Similarly, Coldplay’s album A Head Full of Dreams (2015) showcases the 19 overlapping circles grid as a central design element. Teaser posters for this album were prominently displayed on the London Underground in late October 2015.

Additionally, the “Sun of the Alps” symbol has been used as an emblem of Padanian nationalism in northern Italy since the 1990s. This symbol resembles patterns often found on local buildings. Furthermore, a seven-circle “Flower of Life” design appears in the coat of arms of Asgardia, the space nation.

In summary, the Flower of Life symbol encompasses various meanings and stages of creation. Its intricate designs and rich history continue to inspire and resonate with people across cultures and periods.

4 Days Wheelchair Accessible Tour of Cairo and Luxor....
Wake the inner adventurer and enjoy marvelous group tour to Egypt's treasures...

Excellent Layover Tour

I would recommend Egypt Fun Tours to everyone who is looking for either a cultural or relaxing trip in Egypt. I was recently on a private layover tour and could not have been any happier with my day in Cairo. My tour guide, Hani was waiting just outside immigration and

More »

Excellent Adventure

These guys put together an amazing itinerary that allowed me see the sunrise at the sun festival in Abu Simbel, King Tut’s tomb, and mask! That was just the tip of the iceberg. Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu and Luxor. So much visited with plenty of rest time. An amazing trip

More »
9-day tour package - Egypt Fun Tours

You’re in “GREAT HANDS” with Egypt Fun Tours!

We first went to Egypt in July 2010. We were to pass through Cairo on our way to Africa, and we had arranged to be picked up from the Cairo airport and shown around the city during our 6-hour layover. This was arranged through emails with Hamada, of Egypt Fun

More »

My Dream Came True

I had waited 60 years to get to Egypt; in fact, it was my 60th birthday gift to myself. I went with my oldest daughter, and the experience was excellent. It was meticulously planned by the tour company and was designed for me and my daughter. I never had a

More »
Isis with wings

Top-rated Tour Packages

Isis with wings