The solar cross is probably the most ancient spiritual symbol
in the world, appearing in Asian, American, European, and Indian religious art
from the dawn of history. Composed of a equal armed cross within a circle, it
represents the solar calendar- the movements of the sun, marked by the solstices.
Sometimes the equinoxes are marked as well, giving an eight armed wheel. (The
swastika
is also a form of Solar cross, emphasizing movement.)
The
cross in its most simplified form (shown above) is known in Northern Europe
as Odin's cross, after the Chief God of the Norse pantheon. It is often used
as an emblem by Asatruar, followers of the Norse religion.
The
Celtic cross is a symbol of the Celtic Christian Church, borrowed from the pre-Christian
Celtic Pagan emblem of the God Taranis:
Another similar symbol is the symbol of the ancient Assyrian God Shamash:
The Lauburu (four heads), a traditional Basque emblem, is also a form of solar
cross:
The Etruscan God Ixion was often depicted crucified on a solar wheel (note the
similarity to the Chi-Ro
cross):
The Aztec solar deity Quetzalcoatl, depicted crucified on an equal armed cross:
Related
Resources:
Asatru
The history, beliefs and misconceptions, symbols and traditions of Asatru
(Norse Pagan) spirituality.
Ritual
Magick
Ritual Magick, also known as Ceremonial Magick, one of the most mysterious
and misunderstood spiritual traditions, dates back in various forms to the
beginnings of human culture, and has been continually practiced through to
the present day- inspiring movements as diverse as Wicca, Theosophy, and the
New Age, as well as such diverse disciplines as Chaos magick, Aeonic magick,
and Thelema.
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