Between the minaret and the cross symbol

But he also understood that the closer he got to the truth, the more dangers lay in wait for him. In this world, where the interests of religions and political forces collide, the truth can cost life, like a sip of water in the desert, for which they are ready to kill. Alexander leafed through the pages, plunging into the world of ancient symbols, like a diver into the depths of the ocean, in search of treasures hidden on the bottom.

He saw images of crosses, crescents, stars, the sun, snakes, the tree of life. All these symbols were found in different cultures and religions, but they had something in common.

The book stated: «The cross is not only a symbol of the crucifixion, but also a symbol of the union of Heaven and Earth, the spiritual and the material, the masculine and the feminine. It is the axis of the world around which the entire Universe revolves, the point of intersection of all paths leading to God.»

And further: «The crescent is not only a sign of the moon, but also a symbol of transformation, transfiguration, rebirth. It is the cradle of new life, a chalice filled with divine nectar, a reflection of the light of truth in the mirror of the soul.»

About the star, the book said: «The star is not only a celestial luminary, but also a symbol of hope, a guiding thread leading the wanderer to his goal. It is a spark of divine fire in the heart of man, a reminder of his heavenly origin.»

And about the sun: «The sun is not only a source of light and heat, but also a symbol of divine reason, enlightenment, knowledge. It is the eye of God, seeing all, giving life and prosperity to all living things.»

And finally, about the snake and the tree of life: «The snake, entwining the tree of life, is a symbol of wisdom, knowledge of good and evil, temptation and transformation. The tree, however, is a symbol of immortality, eternal life, the connection of generations, growth and development.»

And in conclusion: «For symbols are the language of the gods, keys to understanding the universe. He who learns to read them will find wisdom and know the truth.»

David and Amir silently watched him with a strange expression in their eyes. Alexander felt that they knew more than they were saying.

«What do these symbols mean?» Alexander asked, looking up from reading, as if awakened from a deep sleep. His eyes glittered feverishly, reflecting the dim light of the lamp and the gleam of the ancient secrets opening to him. He looked around the room, as if seeking confirmation of his conjectures.