Circle symbol meaning

Circle Symbol Meaning

Last Updated on November 10, 2020 by Avia

Exploring Circle Symbol Meaning

Circle Symbolism and Meaning: I can’t hope to quench the inexhaustible implications of the circle symbol meaning in this page. It’s meanings are just too far reaching and profound. However, I’ll try to cover a few highlights in human culture about the circle as a symbol.

Stand behind the eyes of the first human. Look out into the skies through these primitive eyes. 

With not-so-primitive understanding, you will see your first circles – the moon, the sun, the dots in the skies as planets, stars, and realize a grandeur that can be spoken in a circular language.

Indeed, you can put stick to earth and make your own circle in the ground to communicate that concept of all-inclusive, cosmic unity.

Every other (human-based) understanding of the circle symbol meaning stems from that one moment of looking out from the eyes of the first human. From the life-giving solar orb, to its emotionally charged moon mate who sees to the flow of spiritual life, the influence of circles is literally stellar, as it is cosmic and celestial.

I love how the irises and pupils of humankind’s eyes are a microcosm of the circular nature of these grand kahuna’s of life (sun/moon/earth, etc). It’s like we open our awareness (our eyes) to take in the expansiveness of the cycles in time, life and nature itself. A mirroring of perception, if you will.

circle symbol meaning
Circle symbol meaning

“A blessing is a circle of light drawn around a person

to protect, heal and strengthen them.”

~ John O’Donohue

Circle Symbol Meaning – Keywords

  • Womb
  • Focus
  • Unity
  • Cycles
  • Infinity
  • Mobility
  • Inclusion
  • Wholeness
  • Nurturing
  • Initiation
  • Everything
  • Perfection
  • Centering
  • Revolution
  • Completion

The circle symbol meaning is universal, sacred and divine. It represents the infinite nature of energy, and the inclusivity of the universe.

Our ancient kin observed a circular aspect to the cycles of time, specifically in the movements of the seasons. In waltzing rhythms of time, and with the revolutions of the earth ’round the sun, we can feel the same kind of evolution in annual time and seasons – just as our forefathers and mothers did.

circle symbol meaning

The circle is a basic symbol of protection, inclusion and wholeness.

In alchemical symbolism the circle is a center point of focus. Circles are a prolific feature in esoteric alchemical art. Circles are an emphasis on the featured work within its contoured border. It’s like alchemists were underscoring the function of the element. If fire is a feature in the work, a circle around it will illuminate the focus of fire.

To the northern Native American mind, the circle is the sun, the moon and her children (in terms of gender), man and woman. But, we should not get too literal with these definitions. The Native perspective is vastly deep. And so, the circle also embodies a spiritual energy (as all things – sun, moon, etc holds spiritual connotations – and so too would their symbolic expression). Consider the circle symbol meaning in conjunction with the Native medicine wheels.

Here we get the sense of the integration of energy and matter – spirit and man, combining for the purpose of greater spiritual understanding and evolution.

Circles were protective emblems to the Celtic mind. Circles were often drawn as protective boundaries, not to be crossed by enemy or evil. Circles were also Celtic symbols of the cosmos – noting in symbol the intangible procession of time.

In Chinese macrocosmic symbology, the circle expresses the shape of heaven, with earth signified by a square. When we see a square inside a circle in Chinese art, it represents the union between heaven and earth. The deeply significant yin yang symbol is circular, and thus speaks to us of encompassing the whole of duality with intent for unified balance.

This juxtaposition is mirrored in microcosmic symbology expressed by Dr. Carl Jung. Naturally, as a symbolphile, I love learning about Jung’s thoughts on symbolism, and I particularly admire his perspective on the circle symbol meaning. He viewed the circle as an geometric archetype of the psyche. When combined with a square (archetypal of the body) it explains the relationship or balance between psyche and body. This reminds me of DaVinci

What’s even better, is that the circle includes us in the grand scheme. In fact, when a symbol, (any symbol) is shown with a circle around it – that’s our intuitive cue; the symbol beckons the viewer to be drawn in, and included in the experience of whatever symbolic message the center may hold.

For example, if a cross is depicted with a circle around it signals an enhanced meaning of inclusion, unification and wholeness. The circle invites the observer to step inside the sacredness the cross represents, while at the same time it holds in the holiness – like a capsule of honor.

circle symbol meaning

Da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man describes Carl Jung’s teachings on the circle and square combining to make the ideal balance. The circle is symbolic of the mind and thought. The square a symbol of the body.

Consider some objects within our experience that are circles. Let your awareness touch some of these objects and free-associate about them in relation to your own consciousness…

Circles in Life to Trigger Awareness and Contemplation

Circle symbol meaning
Circle symbol meaning

In a broader sense, these random circular objects can be assembled like puzzle pieces to provide a big picture of our transcendental view of nature. Just play with these, or other circular objects that appeal to you. Take time to just sit within the circles of time, space and matter. I’m willing to bet you will be met with some expansive understanding in the process.

This is a brief page on some thoughts about the circle symbol meaning. I invite you to launch on your own personal study and contemplation about the circle. Explore its meaning and come full circle in your own awareness of its symbolic importance.

May all your circle experiences be rounded out with greatness.

Brightly!

Avia

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