SACRED OAK
Poster Prints from Mary Evans Picture Library
SACRED OAK
The oak, sacred tree of Thor, god of thunder, was revered by the Druids, and particularly by the German tribes : Thors Oak at Geismar was cut down by missionary Winfrid (Boniface)
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 4373666
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10195268
Boniface Druids Missionary Pla Nts Revered Sacred Thor Thunder Tribes
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative image, the remnants of Thors Oak stand as a testament to the rich history and complex interplay of religious beliefs that once shaped Europe's cultural landscape. Thors Oak, also known as Donar's Oak or Hangman's Oak, was a sacred tree revered by the Druids and Germanic tribes as the symbolic embodiment of Thor, the god of thunder. The mighty oak, believed to be over a thousand years old, was a place of worship and pilgrimage, where offerings and sacrifices were made to appease the god and ensure a bountiful harvest and protection from the elements. However, the arrival of Christianity in Europe brought about a significant shift in religious practices. Saint Boniface, a missionary sent by Pope Gregory II, played a pivotal role in the spread of Christianity throughout Germany in the late 7th century CE. One of his most notable acts was the cutting down of Thors Oak at Geismar in 723 CE, an act that symbolized the triumph of the new faith over the old pagan beliefs. Despite the destruction of the tree, the legend of Thors Oak continued to live on in the collective memory of the people. The image of the mighty oak, standing tall and proud, has become a powerful symbol of the enduring power of nature and the resilience of human belief. Today, the site of Thors Oak is a popular tourist destination, a reminder of the complex and fascinating history of Europe's religious past. This historical photograph, taken from Mary Evans Prints Online, captures the essence of Thors Oak and the rich tapestry of beliefs and traditions that once shaped Europe's cultural landscape. The image invites us to reflect on the enduring power of religious beliefs, the impact of historical events, and the beauty and majesty of nature.
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