The discovery of the passion flower in the 16th -century by Christian Missionaries in South America could give some religious perspective to that flower. The flower seems simple and beautiful but the distinctive characteristics remind us of the Passion of Christ, which led to its name. The term “passion”, in relation to Christianity, represents the suffering and death of Jesus Christ.
Passionflower is a tropical climbing plant with large brightly coloured flowers. There are many varieties of passion flowers, but the key elements that attracted the missionaries are common to all.
Christianity and the Passion flower:
The Passion for Christians refers to the suffering and death of Jesus Christ. Jesus saved the entire human race through his death on the Cross. Crucifixion has been a typical method of execution at the time, and it involved hanging on a cross from a nail through each hand while not being able to bear full weight on the legs.
Jesus’ greatest gift to mankind was his willingness to give up his earthly life. His death and resurrection resulted in the eternal salvation of believers, and are the foundation of Christianity.
Merriam-Webster defines ‘passion’ as the sufferings of Jesus, beginning after the Last Supper and continuing to his death on the Cross. This definition certainly describes Jesus’ mission as opening the doors of salvation to his believers by paying the ultimate price through his life and death.
What does the Passion Flower symbolize?
The various elements of the passion flower can symbolize various aspects of Jesus’ passion which is described in detail in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
There are four key elements that seem to have the most consensus:
The Apostles
Jesus had 12 apostles, but there were 10 who were faithful all through his passion and death. Judas Iscariot betrayed him and Peter denied three times knowing him. The 10 petals of the flower could symbolize the 10 faithful apostles.
The Crown of Thorns
Jesus was mocked by the crowd and they labeled him King of the Jews. They made a crown of thorns for his head, and added even more pain and humiliation.
The Nails
Three nails were used to fasten Jesus to the cross. One nail each was driven through the hand to fasten his arms to the cross, and by which he hung. The third nail was driven through both feet.
The Sacred Wounds
The five sacred wounds of Jesus include the four wounds in his hands and feet (created by the three nails). The fifth wound was caused by the soldier who thrust his lance into Jesus’ side.
Other references include additional symbolism. These include:
The Spear
As mentioned above. The soldier inflicted the fifth sacred wound with his spear. The spear is represented by the three-lobed leaves.
The Whip/Scourge
Jesus was beaten, although the exact instrument used isn’t certain. The weapon (whether a whip or scourge) is represented by the tendrils.
Jesus was offered a sponge dipped in vinegar to drink while he was hanging on the cross. This is represented by the stigma.
The Chalice
The chalice (cup) was used at the Last Supper. It held the wine that Jesus offered to the apostles as his promise (covenant) that his death was for the forgiveness of sins.
Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. Matthew 26:27-28