An odd number of flowers for a funeral. Ritual flowers: what flowers are brought to funerals? Flowers for deceased women

Funerals are a sad but inevitable part of our lives, which every person has to go through. An obligatory part of the funeral tradition is laying flowers at the coffin of the deceased or on his grave. At the same time, there are certain rules that should be followed when composing a funeral bouquet. There are many nuances to this issue, for example, it is recommended to take into account the age of the deceased, his religion, the customs of the society in which he lived, and even gender . But some general points can be highlighted. For example, here are the flowers they bring to funeral for a man.

Funeral flowers for men

Traditional flowers for funerals are asters or chrysanthemums, as well as callas. A more exotic option is orchids, but in Russia they are not very common and are not found so often. Wildflowers such as cornflowers are also acceptable. The most common option is carnations, which can be replaced with fudge, irises or hydrangea. Roses are also suitable for such a mournful occasion, but in this case it is necessary to give preference to flowers of strict muted shades.

Speaking about what flowers are brought to a man’s funeral, florists say that the most the right choice in this case, the species that the deceased loved during his lifetime will become exactly those species. Such a bouquet will be the best tribute to a person who has passed away. But, if he preferred bright colors, it is better to refuse such a decision and use one of the options above.

White callas

Color range

An immutable rule for organizing a funeral procession is to use colors of a cold palette, since too bright warm colors have been associated with positive, joyful emotions from time immemorial. The most preferred color is yellow. It traditionally symbolizes sadness from parting, so it would be most appropriate in a cemetery. Only Don't choose too bright shades, it is better to give preference to dark tones of yellow, and even better to make a bouquet of orange flowers.

Red flowers are also suitable for this occasion. If a bouquet with a predominance of red shades is presented to a living person, then this is considered to be a gesture of love, a manifestation of passion. But When we're talking about about funerals, red is considered to represent suffering that a person had to endure during his life.

The question of what flowers are brought to a man’s funeral has its own taboos. Under no circumstances should it be used for such situations. pink flowers or delicate shades of red. In addition, you should pay attention to the smell of flowers - It is better to refuse specimens that have a subtle delicate aroma.

Rules for composing a bouquet

One of the main issues associated with composing bouquets for a funeral ceremony is the size of the composition. Tradition prescribes that the deceased must be brought to the coffin even number flowers. Experts say that this custom has its roots in medieval Rus', the inhabitants of which laid exactly two flowers on the grave: one for the deceased, the second for God. According to another version, the explanation lies in the fact that even numbers are considered symbols of peace and tranquility. At the same time, odd numbers mean development and movement towards success. There are also restrictions in terms of the maximum quantity - 8 pieces.

It should be noted here that in culture European peoples there is no such feature, they simply don’t pay attention to it, but in Georgia, for example, things are exactly the opposite - they give an even number to the living, and an odd number to the dead. All these nuances should be taken into account when deciding what flowers to bring to a man’s funeral.

The question often arises: what to choose, a fresh bouquet or artificial flowers. Despite the fragility of live compositions, they are still considered more suitable for mournful events - thereby the participants seem to convey the warmth of their souls to the deceased, which indicates the affection of family, friends and relatives.

Regarding color range funeral bouquet, then more strict monochromatic compositions look preferable here. If you still choose multi-colored bouquets, then you should not get carried away with the brightness - there should be no more than three shades. Otherwise, the composition will look motley, clumsy, which does not correspond general atmosphere funeral

Another important nuance – flowers intended for laying on the grave must be unwrapped. This also applies to various decorative elements that are widely used for other occasions. In the case of a funeral, decorations are understandably inappropriate. In extreme situations, it is permissible to use a small mourning ribbon black as a bandage so that the bouquet does not fall apart and is compact.

So, if you are interested in what flowers are brought to a man’s funeral? , That There are four main points to keep in mind:

The number of flowers must be even - no more than 8 pieces in a bouquet;
Preference is given to a cold palette and calm, restrained tones;
It is better if the composition is monochromatic, at least not variegated;
The use of wrapping and other decorative elements of decoration is not allowed.

As for specific names, then best choice there will be carnations, asters, chrysanthemums, callas and orchids.

Why do they bring real or artificial flowers to funerals? U various peoples Around the world, it is customary to take flowers for significant events. Farewell to last path– an opportunity to express respect and honor the deceased. What flowers to buy for a funeral is a matter of personal preference. But there are some traditions regarding this moment. Let's consider what flowers are usually given at funerals, according to social norms.

What kind of flowers are placed at funerals: natural or artificial?

It is customary to accompany the deceased on his last journey with natural or artificial flowers. Both groups have advantages and disadvantages. Artificial compositions are usually presented in wreaths or baskets, but you can also find individual flowers on sale. Artificial products have the following advantages:

Durability. Flowers will decorate the burial site for a long time.
Availability. The cost of such products is relatively small.
Great selection. The range of goods is wide. Flowers are available at any time of the year various types and colors.

Is it possible to have fresh flowers for a funeral? Of course, just don’t forget that they are short-lived, although beautiful. The main advantage of fresh flowers is that with their help you can express the warmest feelings for the deceased. Such plants look more presentable, symbolizing respect and love from loved ones.

If you want to order a large composition (basket, wreath), it is wiser to purchase an artificial product. If you need several colors, you can buy live plants or choose more durable unnatural ones.

What flowers are best to buy for a funeral?

If you prefer natural plants, find out what fresh flowers are bought for funerals in your area. In the CIS countries it is customary to assign:

Carnations. Red, white, variegated - the choice is wide. The most traditional option.
Lilies. They often purchase luxurious white flowers without interspersed with other shades.
White and burgundy roses. Classic version. Suitable as young man, and an elderly woman.
Chrysanthemums of any shades. Unusually resilient plants. Buy for men and women.
Orchids. An exotic and respectable option for a deceased woman.
Calla lilies. Formal flowers suitable for decorating a man's grave. There are various shades, including black.

The favorite flowers of the deceased are also suitable, especially if a woman is being seen off on her last journey. Flowers are often supplemented with branches of coniferous plants and various greenery. Do not use overly colorful compositions. For a mournful atmosphere, a simple bouquet or basket in two colors is suitable: for example, a combination of burgundy roses and green spruce branches.

Flowers for the funeral of a man, woman, elderly person

Seeing off the last journey of a child or teenager buy tulips, carnations, white roses and other calm shades, including bush ones. Choose small compositions in soft colors.
For a man's funeral calla lilies, carnations, chrysanthemums, gladioli in rich cool shades are suitable. Red and burgundy colors are appropriate.
For a woman choose lilies, orchids, roses; it is permissible to bring the deceased’s favorite flowers.
To the grave of a young girl place irises, tulips, chrysanthemums, roses in light or pink shades.
For the elderly Flowers in burgundy shades are suitable, for example, classic roses.

What color flowers to choose for a funeral

There are no strict regulations regarding the shade of flowers for funerals. People send loved ones off by purchasing plants of various colors to express love, grief and gratitude. Let's consider the appropriateness of using palette shades through the prism of the meaning of colors.

Yellow. Not often used at funerals. Symbolizes warmth and friendship. Flowers of this shade would be appropriate at the funeral of a middle-aged woman.
Orange. Suitable for people who during their lifetime were full of strength and enthusiasm and managed to bring many plans to life. Unpopular option for a funeral.
Red. Such flowers symbolize love and are appropriate for seeing off your spouse. Often used for burials of both women and men. For the stronger half of humanity, a burgundy shade is more appropriate.
Pink. Suitable for seeing off children and young people on their last journey.
Blue. Often used at funerals, especially if the deceased is a man. The color symbolizes sadness and sorrow, as well as calm.
White. Used as a symbol of purity and the beginning of a new stage for the soul. Suitable for people of all ages. In some countries it is considered mourning.

How many flowers can you take to a funeral?

In the CIS countries, it is customary to buy an even number of flowers: 2, 4, 8, 16 - the number is not limited. If the deceased was yours distant relative or a colleague, choose a small number of plants. For loved one choose a large artificial composition, a voluminous bouquet or a basket of fresh flowers.

Today, flowers for a funeral can be selected from a photo in a catalog, ordering in advance before the mournful day. This allows you to calmly choose and purchase the appropriate option without haste or emotions. Be sure to take flowers when going to a funeral: plants and unnatural imitations have long become an integral attribute of the funeral procession.

Why do they put an even number of flowers on the grave? Many people wonder: why do they put an even number of flowers on the grave and where did this tradition come from? There are several opinions on this matter: 1. Back in Ancient Rus' For fallen soldiers who defended their homeland from enemy invasion, two flowers were placed on the grave. 2. According to pagan belief an even number is a symbol of evil and death. It’s not for nothing that they say “trouble does not come alone.” Perhaps this was the reason for the emergence of the custom of giving an odd number of flowers to the living, and an even number to the dead. 3. Many ancient cultures associated even numbers with completeness and completeness. In the case of a funeral, this may indicate the end of life. All odd numbers except 13 symbolized happiness, joy, movement and life. 4. The ancient Pythogoreans considered odd numbers to personify goodness, light and life, and unpaired numbers - death, grief, disappointment. 5. Two flowers are placed on the grave: one is intended for the deceased, and the second is for God or the guardian angel. 6. Some believe that an odd number of flowers are given to the living “up to a couple,” and since the person has died and thus he becomes “married” to death, he is presented with an odd number. Interesting facts about bouquets of flowers Not in all countries is it customary to give people an unpaired number of flowers for their birthday or any other holiday. For example, in the USA, Europe and some eastern countries the birthday boy or hero of the day is presented with a bouquet with an odd number of flowers in the bouquet, without considering this something strange and frightening. If there are more than ten flowers in the bouquet, then no attention is paid to their number (even or not). Real or artificial flowers in the cemetery? Many people, going to a funeral, do not know which flowers are better to buy: fresh or artificial. Different ones are also placed on the grave. It all depends on a person's personal preferences. Of the fresh flowers, the following are considered mourning: 1. White chrysanthemums, which are often brought to deceased friends. This flower symbolizes openness, sincerity and friendship. 2. White lilies, symbolizing purity. They are often placed on the graves of girls and young women. 3. Red carnations are appropriate on the grave of a person who was highly respected among his circle. These could be mentors, teachers and managers. These flowers express their respect. They are also placed at monuments dedicated to military actions. 4. Dark red roses are a symbol of sorrow and living blood. They are placed on the graves of tragically dead people. There must be an even number of flowers in the bouquet. They need to be placed with the buds towards the head of the deceased. Artificial flowers, rather than real ones, are much more popular. All because they for a long time retain their original appearance, but the living ones already wither and dry out on the second day, after which they look very untidy on the grave. And in general, artificial flowers are traditionally considered mourning. You can decorate your grave with them at any time of the year. Today you can buy both a wreath and just a bouquet. It is worth remembering that wreaths are usually laid on the day of the funeral; it is not customary to bring them on the anniversary and birthday of the deceased.

This article talks about what flowers should be brought to a funeral. Here you will learn how to correctly compose a taury bouquet according to the circumstances.

Offering ritual flowers. What flowers do you bring to funerals?

Touching, sweet, and incredibly beautiful – flowers symbolize not only our happy days, but also days of sorrow. Beautiful bouquets and flower arrangements accompany us when we send our loved ones on their last journey.
They serve as an expression of our respect and love for the departed, emphasizing the palpability of loss. Instead of words, flowers talk about the irreplaceability of loss.

Flowers allow you to convey emotional attitude to a deceased person. But this is the last opportunity to convey the unsaid.

Year-round green plants in ceramic pots mean that the deceased will forever remain in your heart.

Irises symbolize hope for rebirth, meaning that this person in your heart will live forever.

Violets, lilies, callas or white roses offered to the graves of young people and children. They mean purity and innocence. Also presence lilies and violets appropriate for the funeral of clergy, since they also personify spirituality; cypress.

Scarlet roses symbolize heroic death.

Red roses symbolize love.
If the deceased was a follower of the Muslim religion, when choosing a ritual bouquet it is better to avoid chrysanthemums. These flowers have the opposite meaning.

Symbol eternal life is willow. Its branches can be added to a bouquet.

In our country, it is customary to give carnations, roses, orchids, callas, and tulips in noble, and at the same time, dim shades. If you know the favorite flowers of the deceased, you should offer them. It is your favorite flowers that will be able to express all the grief and sadness for the person who has passed from your life.

Funerals are, although sad, an integral and inevitable part of our existence. And this procedure has its own traditions: part of such traditions is the laying of flowers in memory of the deceased. Flowers symbolize sadness, loss, pay the last tribute to a deceased person, and are a symbol of farewell. But not all flowers can be used for funerals, and their quantity must be special.

In the article we will look at this issue in detail and find out which flowers are suitable for a sad farewell ceremony, what their color and quantity should be, and clarify other important points.

The first thing you need to understand is that flowers for a funeral should not be flashy or bright. Since this is a solemn procedure and not the most fun, the flowers must fully comply with it. That is, be a neutral, modest shade, not conspicuous, look neat and discreet.

You should not choose bouquets that include two or more different shades of color. Especially if the shades are variegated. Such clumsiness is completely inappropriate at a solemn, sad ceremony.

Give preference to colors of calm, dark shades. In this case, it is necessary to take into account the age, gender and other characteristics of the deceased.

If flowers are placed in a coffin, the cellophane wrapping must be removed.

If it is not possible to personally attend the funeral, it is appropriate to send a basket of flowers or a bouquet with a card expressing written condolences.

Suitable flowers

In general, there are no special flowers specifically for funeral processions. The same flowers are bought for the deceased as for the living. However, when choosing, you need to take into account the points outlined above.

If we talk about varieties and types, many florists consider elegant tulips, carnations, and symbols of rebirth - irises - the most suitable flowers for funerals. In addition, suitable:

daffodils;
dahlias;
gladioli;
orchids;
calla lilies

An important point: the flowers listed should not be brightly colored.

Presenting violets means emphasizing your own deep connection with the deceased, or highly appreciating his morality and moral qualities.

Roses can be considered universal flowers: they emphasize the solemnity of the moment, express respect for the deceased, and simply look luxurious. Roses will look spectacular in a special black basket or framed with mourning ribbon.

Carnations are a budget-friendly and always appropriate option for funerals. However, check the shade of the flowers: it should be white or red. Less commonly used is a combination of white and red, as well as variegated varieties.

If you choose lilies, choose snow-white flowers without any foreign inclusions. Great option- chrysanthemums that last for a very long time when cut.

The addition of willow branches is appropriate to any bouquet, since willow in Christianity is a symbol of eternal life.

To a man

If the deceased is a man, it is appropriate in this case to use bouquets of contrasting shades. The asymmetrical arrangement of the elements of the bouquet will pay tribute to the decisive and courageous character of the deceased.

It is better to choose flowers in cool colors. From a warm palette, red is suitable. However, it is worth understanding that scarlet flowers will be appropriate only if the deceased was a father, husband or loved one.

You should not choose pink flowers for a man: whatever one may say, this is the least suitable in this case shade. In addition, it is undesirable to give preference to flowers with a delicate aroma: such smells are not at all associated with masculinity.

If the deceased was engaged in spiritual practices, a bouquet of violets and lilies would be an appropriate choice. It would be a good idea to plant a cypress tree near the grave - a symbol of wisdom and spiritual purity.

To a woman

When choosing a bouquet for a deceased lady, be sure to take into account the age of the deceased, her lifestyle, social status, habits, other important nuances. If a woman was very dear and close, it makes sense to present last time to her those flowers that she preferred during her life.

If a woman died at a young age, snow-white flowers are usually brought - a symbol of innocence and purity. A variety of delicate shades of pink are also a suitable option. If a lady left this world in middle age, plants in rich colors are suitable: red, orange, lilac, yellow.

A symmetrical bouquet made in pastel shades will suit a woman of a homely, calm, peace-loving nature. If the deceased had an active, perhaps rude disposition, a bouquet on her last journey can be presented to her in an asymmetrical, brighter, contrasting manner.

If a woman died of old age, optimal solution will be a bouquet of pastel shades.

To the child

The funeral of a child is the saddest because the person has just begun his life path, and now I’ve already finished it: unexpectedly, scary and too quickly. You should choose the bouquet especially carefully in this case.

If the deceased is a baby, place soft cream flowers on his grave. It is customary to see off boys and girls of preschool and school age on their last journey with white flowers. If the deceased is a teenager, pay sad tribute with white roses, violets or lilies.

It is not advisable to present large funeral baskets with flowers to children: leave bulky arrangements for the adult deceased. For children, it is better to choose a small, elegant bouquet with delicate flowers.

Not all flowers are suitable for funerals: many of them are too bright or colorful for this mournful ceremony. Let's find out which shades in the bouquet will be appropriate.

Red

The shade symbolizes the suffering that the deceased had to endure. Also, a red tone may indicate true love to the deceased or mean a very close relationship.

White

A shade very appropriate for a funeral. Usually white flowers are carried when they want to emphasize the innocence, purity of the body and soul of the deceased. In general, a white shade will help in any case: it is neutral, and is suitable for both a close relative and a distant friend, colleague - and of any age.

Yellow and orange

We associate these shades with the fading of autumn, so funeral bouquets of these flowers are appropriate to present to an elderly person.

Pink

This shade would be appropriate for the funeral of a young girl; it is also suitable for a woman at home, with a family. Pink flowers are not presented to men.

Blue

The shade symbolizes sadness and grief, so it would be quite appropriate at a funeral. There are not many blue plants: and if you find them, be sure to buy them.

Combination of two or three shades

Although this is not a very common technique when composing funeral bouquets, however, in some cases it may be quite appropriate. Usually a composition of several shades is presented when they want to emphasize admiration for the multifaceted and vibrant nature of the deceased.

Tip: no matter what shade of plant you choose, a black ribbon will help emphasize the mourning meaning of the bouquet.

Flowers and degree of intimacy with the deceased

If the deceased was your friend or girlfriend, it is appropriate to present a bouquet of white chrysanthemums in this case: they symbolize openness and friendly disposition.

If the deceased is a former colleague, teacher, mentor, boss, red carnations are usually presented. These plants symbolize honor and respect and pay tribute to the merits of the deceased. Red carnations would also be appropriate at a military funeral.

If a person died tragically, it is appropriate to present dark red roses, preferably burgundy.

If the deceased was a very close relative or friend, you can present an evergreen plant in a pot. Such a plant is a symbol of eternity. Cut irises in a bouquet have a similar meaning.

Only people who were very close to him during his lifetime have the right to bring the deceased’s favorite flowers to the funeral.

How many flowers should there be in a funeral bouquet?

An ambiguous question - and in different countries he decides in his own way. As for Russia, it has traditionally been our custom that people bring an even number of flowers to funerals. An even number is a sign of completion: in this case, completion is implied life process. Note that the tradition of laying an even number of flowers on the grave dates back to the times of Ancient Rus'.

Interestingly, in European countries and the United States, on the contrary, it is more customary to give funeral bouquets of an odd number of flowers to the deceased. However, people there don’t worry too much about this, and they are quite capable of presenting any amount. No one will judge you for this.

Israeli funeral traditions involve offering ordinary life for living people an even number of flowers and the absence of any vegetation at the funeral. And if you have to attend a funeral in Georgia, keep in mind that in the cemetery in this country they wear an odd number. The tradition is associated with the belief that the deceased can take away happiness from the living: an odd number of plants protects against this.

Where to put the bouquet

If you have no experience attending a funeral, the question of where to put the flowers you brought can become problematic. Let us further explain this subtle point.

If farewell to the deceased is organized in the traditions of Orthodoxy, a separate place is usually allocated where the bouquets brought are placed. All you have to do is observe where the rest of those present take their flowers and repeat after them.

Live plants are removed from the wrappers and placed near the coffin or on top of it. With the lid open, you can go inside. Usually, at a funeral, some time is set aside for farewell: during this period, the laying of the tribute is made.

Important: the buds should be directed towards the head of the deceased.

All bouquets brought must move with the coffin to the cemetery; you cannot leave them, take them for yourself, or throw them away.

So, we found out what flowers are appropriate to take with you to a funeral. The traditions of our country imply flowers of discreet shades and odd number. Keeping this simple rule in mind, you will never make a mistake with your choice. And if you didn’t know the deceased well during his lifetime, buy white roses - an unmistakable neutral option, always appropriate.