Superman has always been metaphysical.

He is a Mytholgical concept (Kal-EL=Michael

the Archangel) in sci fi trappings. He's always had meta physical aspects to his
powerset derived from mystical teachings-- his entire solar absorption/aura aspect
of his powerset is based in Yoga(remember, Jerry Siegel also created the Spectre,
and used Dr. Occult to prototype concepts he had already established for Superman,
so he's familiar with these concepts). His gravity adaption aspect is based in John
Carter, who was derived from Blavatsky's mystical teachings(9th ray etc). He had
super-muscle control, shape-shifting his face to go into disguise, super-
ventriloquism , E-M abilities, telepathic will-control, etc which were derived from
indian fakirs/siddi/stage magician tricks, similar to Doc Savage (real name: CLARK
Savage Jr.)and the Shadow(real name: KENT Allard) albeit on a higher scale.

He represents the peak of human evolutionary potential, which is the point of

yogic/alchemical/kabbalistic sciences. in the 50's the Wesinger Era used blatant
Alchemical symbolism throughout the classic Silver Age canon. Denny O'Neil
specifically shows that his powers are in part derived from his qi/energy aura.
Elliot Maggin specifically cited Kabbalistic mysticism as a rational for his
powerset. In canon, He is literally descended from El who was empowered by Rao likw
Moses/Samson.