Why were flowers used for mourning? This question reveals the deep connections between humanity, nature, society, and culture. Since prehistoric times, flowers have served as an important means of expressing grief for Neanderthals. These early humans not only showed compassion for the weak but also understood how to use flowers to comfort the souls of the deceased. In the Shanidar Cave of the Zagros Mountains, archaeologists discovered a unique grave containing the remains of a disabled individual, surrounded by an abundance of flowers. These flowers were not only decorative but may have had medicinal properties, indicating the Neanderthals' respect for life and hope for the future.
The use of flowers is not merely a custom; it is an expression of emotion. It represents humanity's understanding of death and reverence for life. Although the modern use of flowers has far exceeded this traditional meaning, throughout human history, flowers have remained a vital link between the living and the dead.
