Book of Shadows

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The Shadowlit Realms Book of Shadows - Solar Cross- JournalHome.com

6/18/2007 - Solar Cross

The solar cross also knonw as the equal armed 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 cross in its most simplified form 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 solar cross was is the precursor of the modern Celtic Cross that is now used by the Celtic Christain Chruch, and was borrowed from the Celtic Pagan emblem of the God Taranis

Celtic Cross

Wheel of Taranis

Other simillar symbols that use varriations of the solar cross enclude:

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

and the Aztec solar deity Quetzalcoatl, depicted crucified on an equal armed cross.

The solar corss symbolizes the Sun and the four directions. Its energy is active, kinetic and vibrant, yet peacefully balanced. In Pagan and Druid symbology it is often used to represent the masculine God-force.