Symbols of the Sun and Moon from Ancient Cultures

My recent trip to Central Mexico has sparked within me a curiosity about the relationship between the Sun and the Moon in ancient cultures, art, and yoga.  Many ancient cultures create pyramids that stretch towards the sky as a symbol of ascension.  Pyramids have a special lure for travelers because they are so balanced and defined.  Often times, these pyramids are named after the sun or the moon. In Palenque Mexico, King Pekal's tomb resides next to his Pyramid of the Sun.   The sun is a symbol of energy, life, empowerment, light, warmth, knowledge, and wisdom.  The Chinese perceive the sun to be the ultimate Yang.  The sun can also represent our self that is expressed outwardly.  In Indian Hindu cultures, the sun is the divine rejuvinator.  

Seemingly unrelated cultures in Ancient Egypt created similar pyramids as tombs to bury their rulers.  One particular ruler, Pharaoh Akhenaten chose to worship the sun as his only god.  This sun worship was the recognition and acknowledgement that higher knowledge and wisdom is being transmitted.  In Teotihuacan near Mexico city, the Aztecs dwelled in an abandoned city with enormous pyramids known as the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon.  The Moon is the counterpart that balances the sun.  She represents cooling, calming, instinct, reflection, mystery, emotion, and the dream world.  The Spring Equinox is an important moment at the pyramids of the Sun and Moon because on this day, the days are as long as the nights, therefore, the Sun and the Moon are equally balanced.
It is important to recognize these contrasts and balance in our daily life.  We should take time to see the sun, be energized, share warmth with others, strive to gain wisdom, and equally we should take time to relax, reflect, feel emotions, and dream with the moon.

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