The Archetype of Circle: Symbols and Functions

Archetypes are a set of images, ideal forms and biological and psychological experiences that are manifested in the form of common symbols and themes in myths, religions, rites, mysticism and tales. One of the most important archetypes is "the circle" that has common symbols and functions in mythology and mysticism from way back. The symbols associated with the archetype of circle are as follows: unity and integrity, soul, the self, perfection, glory and power, sanctity and blessing, chance and omen, friendship and intimacy, time and eternity. The functions associated with it are protection and guarding, diversity of two heterogeneous spaces, treatment and mobility, self-knowledge, divine epiphany, representation of the divine science and lordly realities, seven modes of heart. By employing comparative-analytical method, the present article tries to show the most important symbols and functions of the archetype of circle in mythology and mysticism. Also, the attempt is made to show the role of "circle, center and circular movement" in mythological thoughts and religious-mystical beliefs. By this way, the central role of image schema of circle is shown in motifs like manifestation, the process of perfection of the universe, the arc of descent and ascent, creatio continua and the seven sacred and symbolic things.