Why Does Beaufort West Give 33 Flowers on Valentine's Day? What Does It Mean?

Valentine's Day is a time when people around the world express their love and affection through various gestures, from heartfelt cards to romantic dinners. However, in the small South African town of Beaufort West, the tradition of giving 33 flowers on Valentine's Day stands out as a unique and meaningful custom. This practice has deep roots in the town's history and culture, and it carries significant symbolism for the residents.

The Origins of the 33 Flowers Tradition

The tradition of giving 33 flowers on Valentine's Day in Beaufort West dates back several decades. According to local lore, the custom began in the 1960s when a young man named Johannes van der Merwe wanted to express his love for his girlfriend, Maria. Johannes, who was a farmer, decided to give Maria a bouquet of 33 flowers, each representing a year of life. He chose 33 flowers because it was the age at which Jesus Christ was crucified, and he believed that this number held special significance.

Johannes's gesture was not only a romantic one but also a deeply spiritual act. He believed that by giving Maria 33 flowers, he was invoking the blessings of Jesus Christ and asking for divine protection over their love. Maria was deeply touched by the gesture, and the couple went on to have a long and happy marriage. Their story spread throughout Beaufort West, and soon, other couples began to adopt the tradition of giving 33 flowers on Valentine's Day.

The Symbolism of 33 Flowers

The number 33 holds significant meaning in various cultures and religions. In Christianity, 33 is often associated with the age at which Jesus Christ was crucified. It is seen as a number that represents sacrifice, love, and divine protection. By giving 33 flowers, the people of Beaufort West are not only expressing their love for their partners but also invoking these spiritual qualities.

In addition to its religious significance, the number 33 also has cultural connotations in South Africa. In the Afrikaans language, the word "drie-en-dertig" (33) is often used to describe something that is perfect or complete. By giving 33 flowers, the people of Beaufort West are symbolically saying that their love is complete and perfect, just like the number 33.

The Tradition Today

Today, the tradition of giving 33 flowers on Valentine's Day is still alive and well in Beaufort West. Couples young and old continue to honor this custom, and it has become an integral part of the town's culture. Many local florists even offer special 33-flower bouquets during the Valentine's Day season, making it easier for people to participate in the tradition.

The 33 flowers tradition is not just limited to romantic partners. Many people in Beaufort West also give 33 flowers to their family members, friends, and even pets as a way of expressing love and appreciation. The custom has become a universal symbol of love and affection, transcending the boundaries of romantic relationships.

The Impact of the Tradition

The tradition of giving 33 flowers on Valentine's Day has had a profound impact on the community of Beaufort West. It has strengthened the bonds of love and friendship among the residents and has become a source of pride for the town. The custom has also attracted visitors from other parts of South Africa and even abroad, who come to experience this unique Valentine's Day tradition.

In recent years, the 33 flowers tradition has also inspired other communities in South Africa to adopt similar customs. While the number of flowers may vary, the underlying message of love and devotion remains the same. The tradition of giving 33 flowers on Valentine's Day has become a powerful symbol of love and unity in South Africa.

Conclusion

The tradition of giving 33 flowers on Valentine's Day in Beaufort West is a unique and meaningful custom that has deep roots in the town's history and culture. It is a tradition that symbolizes love, sacrifice, and divine protection, and it has become an integral part of the community's identity. As the tradition continues to thrive, it serves as a reminder of the power of love and the importance of expressing affection in meaningful ways.

Questions and Answers

1. Why did Johannes van der Merwe choose 33 flowers?

Johannes van der Merwe chose 33 flowers because it was the age at which Jesus Christ was crucified. He believed that this number held special significance and would invoke the blessings of Jesus Christ and divine protection over his love for Maria.

2. What is the cultural significance of the number 33 in South Africa?

In the Afrikaans language, the word "drie-en-dertig" (33) is often used to describe something that is perfect or complete. By giving 33 flowers, the people of Beaufort West are symbolically saying that their love is complete and perfect.

3. How has the 33 flowers tradition impacted Beaufort West?

The tradition of giving 33 flowers on Valentine's Day has strengthened the bonds of love and friendship among the residents of Beaufort West. It has become a source of pride for the town and has attracted visitors from other parts of South Africa and abroad.

4. Can the 33 flowers tradition be extended to non-romantic relationships?

Yes, the 33 flowers tradition is not just limited to romantic partners. Many people in Beaufort West also give 33 flowers to their family members, friends, and even pets as a way of expressing love and appreciation.

Summary

The tradition of giving 33 flowers on Valentine's Day in Beaufort West is a unique and meaningful custom that dates back several decades. It originated from a young man named Johannes van der Merwe, who chose 33 flowers to symbolize the age at which Jesus Christ was crucified and to invoke divine protection over his love. The number 33 holds significant meaning in Christianity and in the Afrikaans language, where it represents perfection and completeness. Today, the tradition continues to thrive in Beaufort West, strengthening community bonds and attracting visitors from around the world. The 33 flowers tradition serves as a powerful symbol of love, unity, and devotion in South Africa.