Serie A brev nr 18

Magazine Overview

This issue of Brevcirkeln, titled "BREVCIRKELN. SERIE A - BREV NR 18," delves into the complex and ancient origins of the cross symbol, questioning its exclusively Christian identity. Authored by Anna-Lisa Helle, the article posits that the cross predates Christianity by millennia and is deeply rooted in ancient solar worship and other pre-Christian symbolism.

The Ancient Origins of the Cross

The article begins by stating that the cross can be traced back to the most ancient and impenetrable darkness of prehistoric times. It is found in ancient Egypt, on Easter Island statues, in Central Asia, Mexico, and Peru. The cross is presented as the first common symbol for humanity, representing life. The solar cross is found on prehistoric monuments of almost all peoples, either as a simple cross or as a swastika. The cross is said to have arisen from the ancient, sacred, four-armed sun wheel; when the ring fell away, the four spokes formed the cross.

Solar Cults and Symbolism

The sun has been universally worshipped, and the sun cults of various peoples show remarkable similarities, even in detail. Evidence for this sun worship is found not only in the ruins of temples dedicated to the sun god, such as those in Palenque on Yucatan, but also in various ancient writings and a multitude of symbols, among which the wheel and the axe are the most important. The wheel was a symbol of the sun and the sun god because this celestial body was considered a rolling wheel in the heavens. The axe, whether single or double-edged, was a symbol of the sun god because lightning was seen as an axe hurled from the sky, and the sun god, originally the same as the thunder god, fought the powers of darkness with this weapon.

Ancient peoples worshipped their gods on mountains and other high places. The Greeks imagined Zeus enthroned on Olympus, and in Chaldea, where there were no heights, they built huge temple pyramids. In Sweden, several mountains are still called Solberget (Sun Mountain).

The sun god was believed to be reborn each year, and was particularly celebrated during the four most important seasons: the spring equinox, the autumn equinox, the summer solstice, and the winter solstice. In southern regions, where the sun is visible for most of the day year-round, the sun god's birth was celebrated at the spring equinox. In northern regions, where the sun is visible for only a few hours a day during winter, the sun god was believed to be reborn at midwinter, around the winter solstice, when he began to reappear and spread his light.

The Cross in Early Christianity and Beyond

When Christianity emerged, the worship of the sun god had penetrated so deeply into the consciousness of the people that it could not be eradicated. Countless memories persisted, and people gathered at places and times traditionally associated with sun worship. Even today, sacred fires are lit in many places on the eve of the spring equinox (Walpurgis Night) or Easter Eve, and at the summer solstice (Midsummer Eve). Many researchers believe that the Christian holidays of Christmas and Easter are celebrations of the winter solstice and spring equinox, respectively, remnants of the ancient solar cult.

Churches were often built on sites previously dedicated to the sun god, in an attempt to Christianize the place. However, this often resulted in the solar cult being integrated into the Christian sanctuary. Churches were oriented east-west, with the chancel in the east, symbolizing the priest turning east to pray, just as their ancestors did. Many Christian churches feature a radiant sun, representing Jehovah's eye.

The word 'cross' (Latin: crux) has evolved over time. The term 'stauros' in the New Testament Greek text simply means 'pole,' not necessarily indicating a crossbar. However, historical accounts suggest that the cross used for crucifixion often had a T-shape, with a crossbar at the top of a vertical pole. This T-shaped cross is also known as the Egyptian cross and was a sacred symbol among the Maya.

The most common forms of the cross in the Christian church are the Greek cross (equal arms) and the Latin cross (longer lower arm). The article notes that the Greek cross, with its four equal arms, originated from the sun wheel symbol. The Latin cross evolved from the Greek cross, often by lengthening the lower stem, particularly when depicting the crucifixion of Christ.

Symbolism and Transformation

The article argues that neither the Greek nor the Latin cross accurately represents the cross on which Christ was crucified. The common Christian cross symbol, considered characteristic of Christianity, has its origins far before the religion's inception. The author discusses various other cross variants, such as the St. Andrew's cross, the Freemason's cross, and the Maltese cross.

A central theme is the transformation of the cross from a symbol of light and victory over death to a symbol of suffering and submission. The author questions how Christ's cross could become a distorted image of the original cross, which symbolized life, hope, and rebirth. Poul Bjerre is cited for his extensive research on this symbolic transformation.

According to Bjerre, the cross in the collective consciousness signifies the crucified savior, often depicted with a bowed head, representing suffering and submission to death. It symbolizes self-sacrifice unto death, the surrender of everything to God's will, and the end of a earthly journey. It represents redemption through Christ's vicarious suffering.

The Cross as a Symbol of Suffering

The article contends that the cross was born not from the conditions that gave rise to Christianity, but from other circumstances. It suggests that the cross emerged around the year 1000, under entirely different conditions than those prevailing at the advent of Christianity. The author highlights the dark period of the 10th century, characterized by corruption within the church, as a context for this shift in symbolism.

Early Christian art often depicted Christ with a solar symbol, representing his power and light, rather than on a cross. The first known image of Jesus dead on the cross dates to 1059. The article asserts that the cross symbol, as it evolved, did not signify suffering and death but rather life, hope, and rebirth. The shift to a symbol of suffering and death is seen as a negative development.

Religious Revolution and Personal Insight

The article posits that the Christian concept of redemption, particularly the apocalyptic idea of salvation, was central to early Christianity. It criticizes modern liberal theology for attempting to downplay this aspect. The author believes that if Jesus had been an ordinary man, he would not have moved the masses. He needed to be a ruler over heaven who could grant salvation to his followers.

The author argues that the cross symbol became the focal point of human suffering and submission, fixing the somber mood of the era in the collective consciousness. Carrying the cross became the most important content of life, replacing the struggle to overcome evil. This symbolized the crucifixion of the flesh and the negation of lust as an ethical guide, leading to internal conflict and the decay of character.

The development of the cross into a theological system led to a suppression of personal and authentic religious striving. The symbol of the cross became associated with crusades, the Inquisition, antisemitism, and wars.

Swedish Mentality and the Cross

The article touches upon the Swedish mentality, suggesting it does not align well with the cross symbol. The Swedish spirit is characterized by pride and a sense of justice, making it difficult to accept the idea of someone else atoning for one's sins. The author questions whether the concept of vicarious atonement, central to the cross's symbolism, has ever truly penetrated the Swedish soul.

The author emphasizes the importance of personal spiritual care and the need for individuals to confront their own sins and seek reconciliation with life. This personal journey is seen as more significant than adhering to religious forms or dogmas.

Conclusion and Call for Awakening

The issue concludes with a quote from the late Dr. John Björkhem, who describes a historical decline in culture and civilization, with negative forces overpowering positive ones. Björkhem calls for a "new spirit" that will burn away the useless things accumulated and awaken individuals to their essential nature as eternal beings. The article advocates for truth and sincerity as the guiding principles, stating, "No religion is higher than truth."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the ancient origins of symbols, the evolution of religious symbolism, the historical development of Christianity, and the critique of institutionalized religion. The editorial stance is critical of the traditional interpretation of the cross as solely a Christian symbol of suffering, advocating for a broader, more ancient understanding rooted in solar worship and life affirmation. It emphasizes personal spiritual insight and truth over dogma and external religious forms.