Roses have been used to convey messages and meaning for centuries. The number of roses gifted can signify different things. Gifting 4 roses in particular carries some special meanings. In this article we will explore what 4 roses can mean and the significance behind gifting 4 roses.
Meaning of the Number 4
To understand what 4 roses signifies, it helps to first look at the general meaning and symbolism of the number 4. Here are some of the common symbolic associations with the number 4:
- Completion – 4 is considered a number representing completion or wholeness, as it symbolizes the 4 elements (earth, air, fire and water), the 4 seasons, the 4 directions and the 4 corners of a square.
- Stability – The 4 legs of a table or chair represent stability. The number 4 is seen as a stable or solid number.
- Practicality – The number 4 is linked to the material/physical world as opposed to spirituality. It’s considered a practical and pragmatic number.
- Limitation – In tarot cards, the 4 of cups represents self-limitation. The 4 walls of a home can also represent limitation and containment.
With these general meanings in mind, let’s look at what 4 roses in particular can symbolize.
4 Roses Meaning in Romance
In romance, the most common meanings associated with 4 roses are:
- Declaration of Love – 4 roses can signify a declaration of love. The gifter is expressing that their love is complete or full.
- Proposal – Since 4 represents completion, giving 4 roses can suggest wanting to take the relationship to the next stage. It can signify a marriage proposal.
- Long-lasting Relationship – 4 roses can symbolize desires for a relationship that stands the test of time and remains stable.
- Loyalty – The 4 roses represent commitment to the relationship. It emphasizes devotion and loyalty.
So in a romantic context, 4 roses generally signal love, attachment and loyalty between two people. It can mark a meaningful milestone or express wishes to progress the relationship.
4 Roses Meaning in Other Contexts
Beyond romance, 4 roses can carry additional meanings, including:
- Gratitude – 4 roses can be an expression of thank you and appreciation.
- Get Well Soon – 4 roses may be given as a “get well” gift, wishing someone a quick recovery.
- Congratulations – They can signify congratulations on a job, achievement or milestone.
- Sympathy – 4 roses can offer sympathy for someone’s loss or difficult circumstance.
The color of the 4 roses can also modify the meaning:
- Red – Love, passion, courage
- White – Purity, innocence, spirituality
- Yellow – Friendship, joy, cheer
- Pink – Grace, sweetness, admiration
- Orange – Enthusiasm, fascination, pride
- Lavender – Enchantment, majesty, love at first sight
4 Roses in History and Culture
The specific meaning behind 4 roses has roots in history and cultural symbolism:
- Roman Mythology – In Roman myths, the rose was dedicated to Venus, the goddess of love. 4 was her sacred number.
- Christianity – In Christian symbolism, the 4 petals of a rose represent the 4 seasons or the 4 directions. The red rose symbolized martyrdom.
- Tarot – In the tarot deck, the 4 of roses represents emotional stability and appreciation in relationships.
- Freemasonry – In Freemasonry, the 4 roses were symbolic of true love, also representing secrecy and confidentiality.
So the pairing of 4 roses formed over time through significant religious, spiritual and mythological connections.
4 Dozen Roses
While a single 4 roses have meaning, 4 dozen roses (48 roses) can make an even grander gesture. Some occasions 4 dozen roses may be appropriate:
- Marriage proposal or anniversary
- Birth of a child
- Valentine’s Day
- Major birthday (40th, 50th, etc)
Gifting 48 roses amplifies the meaning. It’s an over-the-top display of love, commitment or congratulations. The large quantity stresses the enormity of the sentiment.
Conclusion
4 roses carries layered meaning and symbolism. In romance, it communicates devotion, proposals and desire for long-lasting relationships. The stability of the number 4 emphasizes loyalty and emotional security. Beyond love, 4 roses can show gratitude, support healing or congratulate achievements. Throughout history, myth and culture, the 4 rose motif became tied to completeness in love. Overall, 4 dozen roses takes the symbolism a step further, allowing an ostentatious expression of deep meaning.