Why Are There Lycoris (spider Lilies) In Naruhodo's Hospital Ward?

Why are there lycoris (spider lilies) in Naruhodo's hospital ward?

I think many of us were initially puzzled when we noticed this detail: why exactly these flowers, and in a hospital, and on a completely healthy person? Does someone wish him harm?

Not at all.

In fact, the history of lycoris, or higanbana as they are called in Japan, is not as ancient as it might seem, and the meanings and symbolism of these flowers have changed over the centuries.

Higanbana or Lycoris radiata is a bulbous plant from the lily family, common throughout Japan. It is believed that Higanbana was brought to Japan from Korea or China during the Muromachi period (室町 1333-1568) for its biological properties.

The Spider Lily’s strong association with death has led to its traditional planting in graveyards and temples. It is believed that the flower’s toxicity (its bulbs contain lycorine, a toxic alkaloid) helps deter animals from disturbing the resting places of the dead.

The flower’s name, “Higanbana,” translates to “flower of the afterlife” or “equinox flower,” reflecting its association with the autumnal equinox and the Buddhist festival of Higan.

Higan (彼岸, lit. "distant shore") is a Buddhist holiday exclusively celebrated by Japanese sects for seven days; three days before and after both the Spring equinox (shunbun) and Autumnal equinox (shūbun). During this time, Japanese people honor their ancestors, and the blooming of these flowers serves as a poignant reminder of the transient nature of life.

In Higan, various rituals are performed to help the soul overcome the path from the west, from the world of “confusion and disorder”, to the east, into the world of “enlightenment”.

In Japan, there is a proverb: “Heat and cold end in Higan” (jp: 暑さ寒さも彼岸まで), which means the change of seasons.

Despite these somber associations, the spider lily is also a symbol of renewal and the cycle of life and death. During the Higan festival, the flower represents the passage from the physical world to the spiritual, reminding people to reflect on their lives and the lives of those who have passed on.

The spider lily is also linked to the concept of impermanence, a central tenet in Buddhism. The flower blooms suddenly and fades just as quickly, symbolizing the fleeting beauty of life. Its bright red color is often associated with blood and the idea of finality, further cementing its connection to death and the afterlife.

Spider Flower blooms carry a tapestry of meanings across cultures. Historically, they've been symbols of both invitation and solitude, suggesting a dual nature. In some traditions, they represent an open invitation to explore the unknown, while in others, they signify a desire for privacy and independence.

The Higanbana flower can also symbolize: sad memories, thinking only of you, looking forward to seeing you, reunion (gain), passion, independence (distancing), refusal (reconciliation), horror.

There are many myths and superstitions associated with the flower. It was believed that flowers have magical powers and can influence the fate of people: for example, if you hide a flower in the bed of a loved one, this can create an unbreakable attachment until death. Its flowers symbolize strong feelings and an eternal connection. Therefore, lycoris can be given to express deep affection, devotion, respect, as a sign of reverence.

Let's summarize.

Spider lily can mean:

1. symbol of renewal and the cycle of life and death

2. impermanence

3. idea of ​​finality

4. invitation and solitude

5. looking forward to meeting you, thinking only of you

6. reunion (gain)

7. strong feelings and eternal connection

8. independence (distancing)

9. refusal (reconciliation)

In other words, these flowers literally symbolize the beginning of Naruhodo's path to returning to the legal world, to his "rebirth" as an innocent man. And the one who gave these flowers is looking forward to meeting and reuniting. Who could it be...