Even when the rain falls
Even when the flood starts rising
Even when the storm comes
I am washed by the water
- NEEDTOBREATH, Washed by the Water
Whenever I go to a new lake, I instinctively reach my hands into the water and rub some onto my arms. If it’s warm enough, I take my shoes off and wade in. It’s my way of feeling that lake and taking a part of it with me. I did this in Lake Tahoe last week and it got me thinking about the meaning of water.
Water means many things to us. The dictionary definition of the word water is a colorless, transparent, odorless liquid that forms the seas, lakes, rivers, and rain and is the basis of the fluids of living organisms.
But water is not just a necessity for life on earth, it is also an important symbol culturally. In ancient Egypt, the Nile River was a symbol of life and renewal, and the god Hapi was worshiped for his role in the river’s flooding. In Hinduism, water is the essential substance from which all forms are born. In the Bible, church leaders would conduct baptism in rivers, streams, lakes, or the sea. For Catholics, Holy water symbolizes spiritual cleansing and purification. It reminds believers of their baptism, the washing away of sin, and the entry into the Christian life.
Water weaves its way into poetry and songs. It also symbolizes fun! Swimming, water skiing, and running through the sprinkler on a hot day are happy memories of my childhood.
We can’t live without it, so maybe this symbolism is indicative of a deep yearning instinctually inside of us for water. Evolution and psychology suggest that our love of water is ancient. This love is still influencing our preferences and consumer behavior today. The color blue is used commonly in advertising to catch our attention.
These are some of the reasons we feel a connection to lakes and want to be near them. What does water symbolize for you?
Moriya Rufer is a water quality professional with 20 years experience working with lakes in northern Minnesota.
Leave a Reply