What is the origin of funeral flowers?

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Flowers have long been a part of funerals--so much so that 85 percent of floral consumers have sent sympathy flowers at least once, according to a study by the American Floral Endowment.

Ancient Use

Flower fragments have been found at burial grounds of Neanderthal man dating to 60,000 B.C., according to archaeologists. They believe the fragments indicate a gift of remembrance.

Shanidar Caves

The caves at Shanidar, in Iraq, have been the subject of much debate as archaeologists try to determine whether the flowers were placed as part of a ritual or were there naturally.

Shanidar Site Flowers

Some of the fragments found at Shanidar included bachelor's button, thistle, grape hyacinth and hollyhock.

Original Purposes

While most flowers were believed to have curative powers, they may have been placed to help cover the odor of death.

Biblical Reference

Some believe there is a biblical reference to flowers and death. According to 2 Corinthians 2:14 (People's New Testament), "To the one we are the savour of death unto death. In the triumphal procession, the captives were led, and when it closed were put to death. The fragrant odors of the incense, flowers and sacrifices, were a savor to them of their approaching death. So the savor of the gospel is a savor, a sign, an intimation of death to those who reject it."

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Funeral Customs

Funeral Flowers

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What is the origin of funeral flowers?

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