While the red rose is the most common type of rose and probably one that everyone would first think of when it came to the said bloom, another common color that roses come with is the color white. The color white itself symbolizes innocence and purity and when it comes to roses, it is no different. This is also the color that symbolizes new beginnings. The most common place you would find these white blooms is in a bridal bouquet. Roses, in its own, is a symbol of love which is why a white rose is the perfect one for weddings.
The White Rose
The white rose is known to be perfect for reverentoccasions. It is used to honor a friend and recognition of new beginnings andeven farewells. This rose also conveys the message of respect and expresseshope. Historically, the white rose was known because it was a heraldic sign ofa Duke in York who faced the Lancaster family whose symbol was the red rose.That is why in history it is called the ‘War of Roses’. Even today, the whiterose is still used to represent innocence, purity and pure love. Which is whyit is so famous during weddings and similar occasions, like christenings andgraduations.
If you are planning to convey your pure love forsomebody, the best option would be white roses. This is because the color whiterepresents purity and the rose is a symbol for love. It is a subtle and warmway to tell someone you love them in the most innocent and purest of ways.
In Mythology, however, white roses were known to be the first type of rose to ever exist. It was heavily associated with the Goddess of Love and Beauty. The story goes that Aphrodite had picked these roses and pricked herself, which was why they had turned red because of her blood. During the Victorian Era, white roses were known to be new beginnings or that start of courtship.
The white rose is actually very significant in history. Even inReligion, the white rose is believed to be important to Christianity as theVirgin Mary is often linked to them. The white rose represents her Virtues likepurity, Joy and light. This is why the white rose is also significant inweddings.
The Meanings behind the White Rose
The white rose is mainly a symbol of true love. This is why it is significant in weddings as it is the start of a new beginning and marital bond. This is also because the white rose holds the meaning of hope. Hope for a new beginning and the future which makes it all the more perfect for those who are about to begin a new life with the one they love.
Of course, it is not limited to only bridal bouquets as the white rose can be used to represent young love, admiration and even gratitude. These white blooms are also perfect for graduations and even something to signify the beauty in goodbyes.
The significance of the number of stems
While the colors of the roses may differ in meaning, the meaning behind the number of stems in a hand bouquet does not change. If you want to add more meaning to your white roses, you should take into consideration the meaning behind their numbers. Not only will this make the message you want to convey more special but it would also make the receiver feel more loved because of the effort you placed into learning about roses and their meanings. Here are numbers of roses that you could try to convey a message:
- A single rose – a simple way to tell someone you have fallen for them at first sight.
- 2 roses – This represents a deep kind of love.
- 3 roses – the number is enough to say the three words of ‘I love you.’
- 10 roses – If you find someone perfect, then this number holds that meaning.
- 16 roses – This is a simple and beautiful way to say ‘Bon Voyage’.
- 21 roses – This number symbolizes commitment.
- 25 roses – this is to wish someone all the happiness in the world.
- 27 roses – This is perfect to give to your wife to tell her you love her.
- 36 roses – if you want to remind someone you love of all your sweet and loving memories, this is the number of stems for you.
- 44 roses – This is to pledge undying and unchanging love.
- 47 roses – this number conveys the message ‘you are my one and only’.
- 50 roses – A simple message to say ‘unconditional love’.
- 51 roses – this number conveys the message that you are only thinking of one person and that is the receiver.
- 56 roses – This is a simple way to symbolize and represent ‘love.’
- 77 roses – this number is ‘faith’ which is why it is perfect for someone you consider your soulmate.
- 88 roses – This is how you say sorry in a sweet and simple way.
- 99 roses meaning – While this may seem extravagant, 99 roses actually represent the kind of love that would last a lifetime. If you plan to tell someone you love them for the rest of your life, then this is definitely the number you should choose for their flower bouquet.
As a passionate enthusiast with a profound knowledge of the symbolic language of flowers, particularly roses, I'm excited to delve into the rich tapestry of meanings associated with white roses. My expertise stems from a deep exploration of historical contexts, mythological narratives, cultural symbolism, and even the subtle nuances conveyed through the number of stems in a hand bouquet. Let's unravel the layers of significance behind the white rose and its role in various aspects of human expression.
The mention of white roses in the context of weddings and new beginnings immediately resonates with the symbolic significance attached to this pristine hue. White, universally recognized as a symbol of innocence and purity, seamlessly aligns with the essence of love, making it the perfect choice for weddings. The white rose, in particular, embodies not only purity but also serves as a beacon of hope for the future, making it a poignant symbol for those embarking on the journey of marital bliss.
Delving into history, the reference to the "War of Roses" adds a historical dimension to the white rose's symbolism. As a heraldic sign of the Duke in York, it became emblematic of a conflict with the Lancaster family, whose symbol was the red rose. This historical strife has ingrained the white rose with layers of meaning, including respect, reverence, and expressions of hope.
The mythological connection to Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty, adds an enchanting layer to the white rose's narrative. According to the myth, white roses were the first type of rose to exist, associated with Aphrodite's blood turning them red. This mythological link further underscores the deep-rooted connection between white roses and the theme of love.
Moving to the Victorian Era, white roses signified new beginnings and marked the start of courtship, reinforcing the notion that these blooms encapsulate the essence of fresh starts and budding relationships.
Religion also plays a role in the symbolism of white roses, particularly in Christianity, where the Virgin Mary is linked to the virtues of purity, joy, and light. This association extends the white rose's significance to weddings and sacred ceremonies.
The exploration of the meanings behind the number of stems in a hand bouquet adds another layer of complexity to the language of white roses. From a single rose symbolizing love at first sight to 99 roses representing a love that lasts a lifetime, each number carries a unique message, enhancing the depth of emotion conveyed through the floral arrangement.
In conclusion, the white rose emerges as a multifaceted symbol, representing purity, innocence, new beginnings, love, and hope. Its rich tapestry of meanings, woven through history, mythology, and cultural traditions, makes it a timeless and versatile choice for conveying heartfelt sentiments in various life events. Whether gracing bridal bouquets or expressing admiration and gratitude, the white rose stands as a testament to the enduring language of flowers.
