päikeseratas

Päikeseratas, meaning "sunwheel" in Estonian, is a traditional folk symbol found in various cultures, particularly in Northern Europe. It typically depicts a circle with radiating lines or spokes, representing the sun. The symbol's origins are ancient, predating written history, and it is thought to have been used in pagan rituals and as a protective amulet. Its meaning is often associated with the life-giving power of the sun, cycles of nature, renewal, and good fortune.

In Estonian folklore, the päikeseratas appears in decorative patterns on textiles, wood carvings, and jewelry. It can be found on traditional clothing, household items, and even on ancient burial sites. The specific design and interpretation of the päikeseratas can vary, but its core connection to the sun and its life-sustaining properties remains consistent. Scholars believe it played a significant role in the spiritual beliefs and worldview of ancient Estonians, symbolizing their reverence for the natural world and the celestial bodies. The enduring presence of the päikeseratas in Estonian culture highlights its deep historical and symbolic significance.