Soyluluk Çiçeği “Erguvan”A Kültürel Bir İnceleme
A Cultural Approach to Judas Tree the Tree of the Nobles

Summary/Abstract: This work involves the study about the tree, flower and the color of the Judas tree in history, society and Turkish poetry. Firstly, through pointing out the sociological importance of Judas tree, the plant is virtually described also; the origin of its name is stated. Later, the historical and cultural place of Judas tree is described by mentioning the myths, legends and historical events in Byzantine, Shamanism, Anatolia, Christianity, Ottomans and Çatalca. Finally, some examples to Turkish Poetry are given which involves Judas tree and the images and symbols it formed in this literature genre. While mentioning the importance of Judas tree, initially it can be said that, as the spring arrives, the natural events that occur have an important symbolic meaning for society. These natural events vary according to the region. As a harbinger of spring, blossoming of Judas trees has similar meaning for the people where it grows. On the other hand, colors have a significant value among public. The color of the Judas tree is so much owned in Byzantium that only the emperor can wear a cloak in its color. For this reason it is called “the tree of the nobles”. For centuries Judas tree was one of the symbols of Bursa and Istanbul cities. It has a special importance in Çatalca, a district in Istanbul. Judas tree festival occurs every year. Also public properties are in the color of this tree. “Hüsn-ü Aşk mesnevi” a work of Şeyh Galib is full of symbols and allegories and Judas tree is one them. Judas tree is used along with other flowers and trees while portraying spring. For this reason, as a plant and as a unique color, Judas tree possesses an important meaning in human history, culture as well as in Turkish poetry.

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