The mysterious tree of life in Bahrain

The tree of life
The tree of life

The tree of life in Bahrain is an extraordinary beautiful tree in the middle of the Arabian desert, surrounded by miles of sand, this 400-year-old tree’s existence is a real miracle because there is no water source anywhere.

The average temperature in the region is 105 degrees Fahrenheit often soaring to 120 degrees, and devastating sandstorms are very common.

There are quantities of water in the tree’s root system, but it remains a mystery where the water comes from.

There is no a rational explanation about the tree’s successful life and many people look for answers in the mythology or even religion.

Tree of life. Alawadhi3000 CC BY-SA 3.0
Tree of life. Alawadhi3000 CC BY-SA 3.0

For example, there are beliefs that the tree is protected by Enki, an ancient god of water in Babylonian and Sumerian mythology. Others say that the lonely tree is a remain of the Garden of Eden.

Whatever the explanation is the tree of life gives people hope and helps them believe in miracles.

The fact is that maybe it’s not that explainable. The tree of life is located in a desert only 10-12 meters above sea level. Also, the roots of these trees might go up to 53 m deep which kind of gives us some possible explanation for the tree’s biological success.

Mesquite tree Sue in az CC BY-SA 3.0
Mesquite tree Sue in az CC BY-SA 3.0

The tree of life is a mesquite type of tree. These species are known for collecting the humidity from the air and in that way provide enough water to survive.

The tree of life is a great attraction for local tourists that come to visit throughout all the year. Some consider it as a sacred place and do religious rituals close to the tree.

Tree of life Photo Credit
Tree of life Photo Credit

Back in the days, Bahrain was an area rich with water. There were fields and farms and developed agriculture. The scenery is not green anymore, it’s turned into a sandy desert with barely any form of life.

The old mesquite stands proudly as a reminder of a better life in Bahrain.

Bahrain island Philg88 CC BY-SA 3.0
Bahrain island Philg88 CC BY-SA 3.0

Without showing any signs of dying, its abundant green leaves and long branches are teaching us that Nature finds its way to create miracles and nothing can stop it.

Despite all climate changes and the bad influence of mankind, the natural force of creation is succeeding in keeping this species alive and healthy.

The tree itself finding a way to survive in a hostile environment without any intervention of human experts.

stef-zisovska

stef-zisovska is one of the authors writing for Outdoor Revival