![]() ![]() The symbol of the solar cross also appears in ancient astrology. It also appears in the seal of the Babylonian sun god, Shamash. Among other things, it symbolizes the wheel and in China represents thunder, power and energy. This sign first appeared in the very early Bronze Age. The earliest versions of this cross, found in Ireland, do not show the arms of the cross protruding from the circle the entire symbol is encompassed within the circle and in this case it becomes the ancient universal symbol called the Cross of the Sun, the Cross of the Wheel or the Cross of Odin In the Celtic cross or ring cross symbol, a cross is contained within a circle. ![]() Its four members hold the underworld, the earth and the vault of heaven together and thus prevent chaos. The cross can on the one hand symbolize the four cardinal points, on the other hand the tree of worlds. The cross is just as fundamental an element as the circle in representing the cosmos. Typical Celtic crosses are decorated with a circle. This is an important aspect to better understand the Celtic symbols. When looking at the Celtic culture, one must keep in mind that for them the whole world was sacred. Therefore, to respect and venerate everything in the world was to respect the gods, the very essence of life. The Celts are no exception since tools, jewelry and houses were circularįor this people, each being, animated or not, was part of the divine. I have often reminded in my articles the importance of the circle in many traditions. Thus, the druids read the future in the course of the stars and planets, in dreams, in the flights of birds etc. What is really important to remember is that for a Celt, everything in life has a symbolic value. Even if they sometimes offered sacrifices to appease the gods, there was a real respect for all creatures. They were somehow an animist people who lived in symbiosis with the natural rhythms of nature. The Celts saw the earth as a deity, their mother goddess, filled with mystery and populated by gods and goddesses residing in springs, rivers, wells and caves. They could also choose their husband and decide to divorce. ![]() Celtic women could lead tribes, take part in political life, be warriors and druids, bards and healers. In preparing this article, I learned that the place of women in Celtic society was exceptionally advanced for its time. The Celts are not confined to the Breton lands but their heritage is everywhere in central Europe, mainly Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Cornwall and the Isle of Man. And as Bretons, we could hardly miss an article on Celtic symbols, they have cradled our childhood and a large part of our lives. Although their written heritage seems rather small, their cultural and artistic heritage is enormous. ![]()
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