Ancient Cults of the Sun and the Symbolism of Light in Gnosticism and Early Christianity. From the Archives of Eranos 1943

1943, the true black night of the world soul. During this time, a group of scholars attempts to find light in history, discern the source of hope in distant myths and legends, and even refute some common notions about ancient realities — for false interpretations of solar symbols can be immensely costly. Mithras, Helios, Egyptian solar deities, light in early Christian sources, Tabor, and finally, the complex relationships with celestial bodies in Islam — all these themes help to understand the role the Sun plays in our psyche.