The Spiritual Meanings of the Circle and Sphere, an Introduction

Part of a series on the grammar of the sacred geometry of basic geometrical shapes

“Stay at the centre of the circle and let all things take their course.” Tao Te Ching

In this series, we look at the spiritual meanings of basic geometrical shapes and examine the symbolism of shapes as drawn in two dimensions in the first instance. This is our starting point. From here we develop their meaning into three dimensions, in the case of a circle a sphere, and then to even higher dimensions. By understanding these elementary, though not simple principles, we will apply them to the design of sacred architecture.

The Circle in Two Dimensions

The circle is a powerful spiritual symbol found in many cultures and belief systems worldwide. It is often associated with wholeness, unity, and the divine. The spiritual symbolism of the circle can be understood in a variety of ways, depending on the context and the belief system.

Solar System painting (thanks to NASA)

Some of the most common interpretations include:

1. Unity and wholeness: The circle represents unity and wholeness, as it has no beginning or end. It embodies the concept of oneness, reminding us that everything is interconnected and that we are all part of a greater whole.
2. Infinity and eternity: Circles signify the eternal nature of life and the universe. The continuous loop represents the cycles of life, death, rebirth, and the idea that time is infinite.
3. Divine perfection: In many cultures, the circle is seen as a symbol of divine perfection. Its symmetry and balance are often associated with the perfection of the cosmos and the divine order that governs it.
4. The sun, moon, and celestial bodies: Circles often symbolise celestial bodies like the sun and moon, which have been worshipped by various cultures throughout history. They can represent the cosmic forces that govern our existence and remind us of the vastness of the universe.
5. Enclosure and protection: The circle can also symbolise a protective boundary, representing safety and sanctuary. In this context, it may be used to create sacred spaces or represent a higher power's protective embrace.
6. Cycles and natural rhythms: The circle represents the cyclical nature of life, as seen in the changing seasons, the phases of the moon, and the life cycles of living beings. It serves as a reminder of the natural rhythms and patterns that govern our existence.
7. The Self and the journey of personal growth: In some spiritual traditions, the circle represents the individual's journey towards self-realisation and spiritual growth. It can symbolise the process of integrating different aspects of the self and achieving inner harmony.

The Point in Space

The circle itself is an evolution of a point in space, which marks its centre. We must therefore understand the spiritual meaning of the point in space. It is important to understand that a point in space is equivalent to all things possible represented within the geometry of the zero-dimension as it appears on a plain surface. As a result, a point in space, though seemingly simple, can carry significant spiritual symbolism in various belief systems and philosophical traditions. Some interpretations of its spiritual significance include:

1. The origin or source: A point in space can symbolise the origin or source of creation. In many spiritual and religious traditions, the universe is believed to have originated from a single point or a primordial seed (or indeed is continually created from a point), which then expanded or unfolded into the cosmos as we know it.
2. The centre: A point can represent the centre or the focal point of spiritual energy. In sacred geometry and some spiritual traditions, the centre is seen as a point of balance, harmony, and power, where divine energy converges.
3. The individual: In some philosophical and spiritual contexts, a point in space can symbolise the individual or the self. Each individual is a unique point in the universe, with their own experiences, perspectives, and connections to the greater whole.
4. Singularity and unity: A point in space can represent the idea of singularity and unity, where everything converges into one essential essence. This notion is often found in spiritual teachings emphasising the interconnectedness of all things and the ultimate oneness of reality.
5. The starting point of a journey: In some spiritual traditions, a point in space can symbolise the starting point of a spiritual journey or personal transformation. It represents the initial moment of self-awareness or awakening that propels an individual towards growth and self-discovery.
6. Infinite potential: A point in space can be seen as a symbol of infinite potential. It is a location with no dimensions or limitations from which infinite possibilities can emerge. This concept is related to the idea of boundlessness and the unlimited creative potential of the universe.
7. The present moment: A point in space can represent the present moment, as it is devoid of any dimension or extension in time. This concept aligns with many spiritual practices that emphasise the importance of being fully present and grounded in the here and now.

The Transformation of a Point to a Circle

The symbolism of a point becoming a circle in the context of spiritual transformation is a powerful metaphor that can be interpreted in various ways. This transformation can represent personal growth, evolution, and the interconnectedness of all things.

1. Unity and Wholeness: The point signifies a singular aspect or starting point, while the circle represents the all-encompassing nature of the universe. In this context, spiritual transformation occurs when one transcends individuality and embraces the interconnectedness of all beings and things.
2. Expansion of Consciousness: The point can be seen as a symbol of limited awareness, while the circle signifies the expansion of consciousness. Spiritual transformation may gradually broaden one’s understanding and empathy, ultimately leading to a more compassionate and interconnected worldview.
3. Cycles and Continuity: The circle symbolises continuity and cycles, with no beginning or end. As the point expands into a circle, it represents the process of spiritual transformation as a continuous journey rather than a destination. This can serve as a reminder that growth is ongoing and that there is always more to learn and experience.
4. Balance and Harmony: The circle also symbolises balance and harmony, as all points on the circumference are equidistant from the centre. This aspect of the circle can represent the importance of balance in spiritual transformation, as one strives to integrate various aspects of the self and the world around them to achieve inner harmony.
5. The Divine and the Self: The point at the circle's centre can symbolise the divine spark within each person, while the circle represents the divine presence that permeates all things. Spiritual transformation can involve the process of recognising and nurturing this divine spark, ultimately leading to a deeper connection with the divine and a greater sense of unity with the universe.

The Circle & Sphere in the Old Testament (the Tanakh)

While the concept of the circle as a spiritual symbol is not explicitly mentioned in the Old Testament, some various instances and references can be related to the symbolism of the circle. These examples tend to be more symbolic, whereas those in the New Testament relate to the circle allegorically. Here are a few examples:

1. Creation and the Earth: In Genesis, the creation of the Earth can be seen as an expression of the divine perfection and wholeness associated with the circle. Ancient Hebrew cosmology often depicted the Earth as flat and circular, with a firmament separating the heavens and the Earth. This understanding reflects the idea of the Earth as a unified whole, embodying creation's divine order and perfection.
2. The Tabernacle: The Tabernacle was the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their journey through the desert. The layout of the Tabernacle and its surrounding encampment followed a specific pattern, with the Holy of Holies at the centre, representing the presence of God. This central point can be related to the symbolism of the circle, with the divine presence at the centre and the people of Israel encircling it in concentric circles based on their tribes.
3. The bronze basin in Solomon’s Temple: In 1 Kings 7:23–26, Solomon’s Temple features a large, circular bronze basin called the “Sea” used for ritual purification. This basin was a perfect circle, measuring ten cubits in diameter and thirty cubits in circumference. The circular shape of the basin may symbolise wholeness, unity, and divine perfection, as well as the purifying and renewing cycles of water.
4. Isaiah’s vision of God’s throne: In Isaiah 6:1–3, the prophet Isaiah has a vision of God seated on a throne, surrounded by seraphim who continually call out, “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory.” This image of God surrounded by celestial beings can be related to the symbolism of the circle, with God at the centre as the focal point of divine power and glory and the seraphim encircling him in worship.
5. Ezekiel’s vision of the divine chariot: In Ezekiel 1, the prophet Ezekiel has a vision of a divine chariot with four living creatures, each with four faces and four wings. The creatures move in perfect harmony, and their movements are described as “a wheel within a wheel” (Ezekiel 1:16). This image of interconnected wheels can represent the cycles of divine order and the eternal nature of the divine presence.

Engraved illustration of the “chariot vision” of the Biblical book of Ezekiel, chapter 1, after an earlier illustration by Matthaeus (Matthäus) Merian (1593–1650)

The Circle in the New Testament

The New Testament doesn’t explicitly reference the circle as a symbol. Still, various instances can be related to the symbolism of the circle in terms of unity, wholeness, divine perfection, and eternity. These examples tend to be more allegorical whereas those in the Old Testament are more symbolic. Here are a few examples:

1. The Last Supper: In the accounts of the Last Supper, Jesus gathers his twelve disciples around him for a final meal before his crucifixion (Matthew 26:20–30; Mark 14:17–26; Luke 22:14–23; John 13:21–30). This image of Jesus at the centre, with his disciples encircling him, can represent the spiritual unity and wholeness embodied by the circle.
2. Jesus washing the disciples’ feet: In John 13:1–17, Jesus washes his disciples' feet as a sign of humility and service. This act of washing in a circular motion can symbolise the cleansing and renewal associated with the circle and the interconnectedness and mutual support within the community of believers.
3. The Parable of the Prodigal Son: In Luke 15:11–32, Jesus tells the parable of the Prodigal Son, who leaves his father’s house, squanders his inheritance, and eventually returns home to be welcomed back with open arms. This story can be related to the symbolism of the circle in terms of the cyclical nature of life, personal transformation, and the journey of returning to the divine source.
4. Jesus’ Resurrection: The resurrection of Jesus (Matthew 28:1–10; Mark 16:1–8; Luke 24:1–12; John 20:1–18) can be seen as an embodiment of the eternal and cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth associated with the circle. Jesus’ resurrection represents the ultimate victory over death and the promise of eternal life for believers.
5. The description of the New Jerusalem: In Revelation 21, the Apostle John describes the New Jerusalem as a heavenly city where God dwells with humanity. The city is depicted as a perfect square, with its length, width, and height being equal. Although not a circle, the perfect symmetry and balance of the New Jerusalem can be related to the symbolism of divine perfection and wholeness associated with the circle.

The Circle in Eastern Religions

The circle is a powerful spiritual symbol in many Eastern religions and spiritual traditions, representing various meanings, from unity and wholeness to the cycles of life and the cosmos. Here are some examples of the circle being used as a spiritual symbol in Eastern religions:

Hinduism:

1. Mandala: Mandalas are intricate, geometric designs representing the universe and the cosmos in Hinduism (and Buddhism). They often include circles and other shapes, with the mandala's centre symbolising the divine source and the concentric circles representing the various layers of existence.
2. The Wheel of Dharma (Dharmachakra): The Wheel of Dharma is a symbol that represents the teachings of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. In Hinduism, it symbolises the cyclical nature of the universe, the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, and the divine order that governs existence.

Tibetan Buddhist thangka painting 19th Century, artist unknown

Buddhism:

1. The Wheel of Dharma (Dharmachakra): In Buddhism, the Wheel of Dharma represents the Buddha’s teachings and the path to enlightenment. The circle shape of the wheel symbolises the perfection and completeness of the Buddha’s teachings, as well as the cyclical nature of existence and the endless cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara).
2. Enso: The Enso is a circle drawn with a single brushstroke in Zen Buddhism. It symbolises the universe, emptiness, and enlightenment. The Enso also represents the interconnectedness of all things, the perfection of imperfection, and the moment of creation.

Enso Calligraphy by Kanjuro Shibata XX “Ensō (円相)”

Taoism:

1. The Yin-Yang symbol (Taijitu): The Yin-Yang symbol is a circle divided into two parts, representing the balance and harmony of opposing forces in the universe. The circle shape symbolises the unity and wholeness of existence and the interdependence of all things.
2. The Bagua: The Bagua is an octagonal symbol used in Taoism and feng shui, consisting of eight trigrams arranged around a central circle. The circle represents the Tao, the ultimate source of existence, while the trigrams symbolise the various aspects and forces that make up the world.

The Bagua, with the Yin Yang symbol at the centre (thanks to Pauloleong2002)

Jainism:

1. a. The Wheel of Dharma (Dharmachakra): In Jainism, the Wheel of Dharma symbolizes the cyclical nature of existence and the path to liberation from the endless cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. The circle shape of the wheel represents the completeness of the Jain teachings and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

The Wheel of Dharma (thanks to Shazz, Esteban.barahona)