One of the oldest cross cultural symbols of antiquity is that of the Tree. A Tree is a perfect symbol to connect the Earth with Heaven because its roots branch out into the earth and likewise its body reaches into the sky. In this way it connects the below with the above and comes to represent the perfect distribution and growth of the universal force which spreads out from its seed, to create its trunk, branches, leaves, and fruit. It simultaneously has come represent the descent of spirit into matter and its ascent back to spirit while conferring the quality of immortality. There is a vast range of myths that circle around the Tree yet generally the deeper allegory remains hidden. A cross-cultural analysis of this symbol reveals some very startling insights. Its universality contributes to my ongoing thesis which is that of an underlying unity or Perennial Tradition that weaves all cultures together. ...