Symbols of Motherhood and Mother’s Day Around the World
Motherhood is celebrated across cultures with deep respect, symbolic gestures, and heartfelt traditions. This guide explores the universal and culturally specific symbols of motherhood, as well as how different regions of the world observe Mother’s Day.
Universal Symbols of Motherhood
1. Flowers
Carnations: Popular in the United States and parts of Europe. White carnations honor mothers who have passed, while pink or red ones are given to living mothers.
Jasmine: Especially significant in Thailand and other parts of Asia, jasmine symbolizes purity, gentleness, and maternal love.
Roses: Also common, representing love and gratitude in many cultures.
2. Mother and Child Imagery
Seen across ancient civilizations such as Egyptian, Roman, and Mayan cultures. This imagery conveys protection, nurture, and the sacred bond between mother and child.
Religious traditions also highlight this motif, such as the Virgin Mary and baby Jesus in Christianity, or Parvati and Ganesha in Hinduism.
3. The Tree of Life
Found in many traditions, the Tree of Life stands for fertility, strength, growth, and the ancestral line. It symbolizes how mothers are central to both physical and spiritual continuation.
4. Animals
Elephants: Represent strength, wisdom, and maternal care in African and Indian symbolism.
Bears: In Native American and Celtic cultures, bears are seen as protective and fierce mothers.
Birds: Creatures like hens and doves are often symbolic of nurturing and watchfulness, frequently depicted caring for their young.
Mother’s Day Traditions Around the World
United States
Date: Second Sunday in May
Traditions: Gifting flowers, handmade cards, breakfast in bed, and spending the day together. The holiday was championed by Anna Jarvis in the early 20th century.
United Kingdom
Date: Fourth Sunday in Lent (Mothering Sunday)
Traditions: Originally a religious observance linked to visiting one's "mother church." Now a day for honoring mothers with flowers and treats.
Japan
Date: Second Sunday in May
Symbols: Red carnations represent maternal love and gratitude.
Traditions: Children often draw portraits of their mothers and participate in exhibitions or school presentations.
Thailand
Date: August 12 (Queen Sirikit’s birthday)
Symbols: Jasmine, associated with purity and motherhood.
Traditions: Public ceremonies, school performances, and jasmine gifts to mothers.
Ethiopia
Holiday: Antrosht (celebrated at the end of the rainy season)
Traditions: Family feasts, dancing, and singing to honor mothers, often involving traditional dishes and joyful gatherings.
India
Date: Second Sunday in May (modern observance), though other celebrations tie into religious festivals.
Other Observances: Durga Puja honors the goddess Durga, a symbol of strength and motherhood. Nepal celebrates Mata Tirtha Aunshi, a dedicated Mother's Day.
Symbols: Divine feminine figures like Durga, Parvati, and Lakshmi embody motherhood.
Mexico
Date: May 10 (fixed annually)
Traditions: Families gather for meals, children serenade mothers with songs such as "Las Mañanitas," and churches host special masses.
Religious and Cultural Symbols of Motherhood
Christianity: The Virgin Mary is the ultimate mother figure, embodying unconditional love, sacrifice, and devotion.
Hinduism: Goddesses such as Parvati (motherly love), Durga (protector), and Lakshmi (provider) symbolize different aspects of motherhood.
Islam: Although iconography is limited, motherhood is deeply revered. The Prophet Muhammad is quoted as saying, "Paradise lies at the feet of your mother."
Buddhism: Compassion and selfless care, key virtues in Buddhism, are often personified by figures like Guan Yin, the bodhisattva of mercy.
Modern Symbols of Motherhood
Hearts: A timeless symbol of love and emotional connection.
Hands: Represent the bond and guidance between mother and child, often seen in art using handprints.
Infinity symbols: Combined with hearts or names, they often represent endless love and devotion.
Motherhood tattoos: Often personalized with names, dates, or meaningful symbols like birds, trees, or celestial bodies.
A Note on France
In France, Mother’s Day (Fête des Mères) was once influenced by Napoleonic ideas encouraging large families. Today, it’s celebrated with handmade cards, flowers, and family meals, usually on the last Sunday in May or early June.
