Tree of Life by Jack Plewa

The concept of the Tree of Life originates in Jewish Kabbalah, a mystical tradition that seeks to explain the nature of God, the universe, and humanity’s relationship to both. Kabbalah delves into the spiritual underpinnings of existence, offering insights into divine creation and the flow of spiritual energy. The Tree of Life is central to Kabbalah, representing the interconnected pathways through which divine energy flows into the world. It embodies balance, harmony, and the union of physical and spiritual realms. In broader spirituality, the Tree of Life signifies growth, wisdom, and the cycle of life, making it a universal metaphor for the pursuit of understanding and enlightenment. These themes deeply resonate with the values of medicine and humanity, providing a foundation for this art piece.

This “Tree of Life” art piece was meticulously crafted using leaves, branches, flowers, and herbs, symbolizing the interconnectedness of life, love, and medicine. At its base, rose petals form the foundation, representing love, the essential element in life and the heart of compassionate medicine. Surrounding the top of the tree, sunflower petals create a rising sun, symbolizing warmth, positivity, and happiness—qualities that are crucial for a flourishing life and the practice of good medicine.

The trunk and roots of the tree are made from purple sage, which I grew and harvested specifically for this project. Purple sage represents wisdom and spiritual enlightenment, embodying the support system and spiritual backbone essential for maintaining the soul’s vitality. This symbolism extends to the life of the patient, emphasizing the importance of spirituality in their overall well-being.

The tree’s leaves are created from mugwort, lemon balm, and peppermint, herbs that I have been cultivating over several months. Each herb holds significant meaning: peppermint represents healing, purification, and protection; lemon balm cleanses negative energy and promotes positivity; and mugwort embodies intuition, psychic abilities, and the divine feminine. Together, these elements enhance the quality of life and health, reinforcing the role of spirituality and positivity in patient care. Lastly, baby’s breath adorns the tree, representing purity and innocence, further highlighting the importance of maintaining these qualities in the practice of medicine.

This project embodies Oslerian principles by reflecting the holistic nature of patient care, where love, spirituality, and compassion form the core of healing. It emphasizes that medicine is not just a science but also an art deeply rooted in humanism, where the well-being of the soul is as vital as the health of the body.