The planetary sign of the sun (a circle with a dot in the center) is also an alchemical symbol of origin signifying completion of the Great Work. Furthermore, this sun symbol represents the Self in its relation to the cosmic whole.

This is also the case in astrology where the sun is symbolic of the Self that is expressed outwardly – the self that shines openly to our friends, family, co-workers, etc. The sun position at our time of birth gives special illumination as to our characteristics. It’s as if the sun shines upon our symbolic selves and makes us most visible to the world (see your astro sun sign here).

Quick List of Symbolic Sun Meanings

Life

Power

Strength

Energy

Force

Clarity

Self

In Christianity the sun is the house of Archangel Michael (Gabriel lives within the moon), and is also a symbol of the Christ, or Christ-like attributes.

In ancient Egypt the sun is associated with the Horus, Ra and Osiris. Horus represents the rising sun, Osiris the setting sun, and Ra represents the sun’s zenith.

Again we see the sun symbolism in association with eyes or vision as the sun is the eye of Zeus in Greek mythology.

Likewise, in Hindu mythology the sun is the eye of Varuna, and is also considered the “divine rejuvenator.”

The sun resonates with male energy in most cultures. However, Celtic perspective places feminine power within the sun’s rays. Likewise, ancient African, Japanese, Germanic, and some Native American tribes all hold the sun as a feminine energy.

Animals can also be considered as sun symbols. For example, the eagle was a symbol of the sun rising in its glory and power over their cities. The tiger is the sun in its setting aspect