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.
Flower of Life Meaning
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.
Flower of Life Origin
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.
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.
Flower of Life History
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.
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.
In modern times
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.
