Sep 17 and 18, 2024 - Cultural Tapestry of Lunar Eclipses: Myths, Beliefs, and Modern Interpretation

 

A Lunar Eclipse is scheduled for September 18, 2024. Though this event will not be visible in India but can be observed from Europe, America, Africa, and parts of Asia. The eclipse starts at 06:12 AM and ends at 10:17 AM. The Babylonians were some of the first people known to have kept detailed records of lunar eclipses. They understood the regular periodicities and cycles of the sky from careful observations, and they developed early predictive schemes based on past observations. They recognized the elliptical path of the moon and noticed that lunar eclipses occurred at full moon when the Earth was between the Sun and the Moon. The Greeks: The Story of "an-uhk-SAG-or-us" PER-ih-kleez" Around 450 BC, the Greek thinker Anaxagoras provided a scientific explanation for both solar and lunar eclipses, suggesting that lunar eclipses occurred when the Earth came between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow on the Moon. His ideas greatly influenced Pericles, the statesman, who used this knowledge to calm Athenians during an eclipse, demonstrating the power of understanding and knowledge in quelling superstitions. The Chinese Dragon In ancient China, a lunar eclipse was thought to be caused by a dragon devouring the Moon. The Chinese would bang drums and light fireworks to frighten the dragon away. The word for eclipse in Chinese, "shi," literally means "to eat." Early Chinese astronomers must have observed the shadow of the Earth covering the Moon and rationalized it with their mythological beliefs. Hindu Mythology: The Story of Rahu and Ketu In Hindu mythology, the eclipse is the result of a demonic entity, Rahu, chasing the Sun and the Moon. The story goes that during the churning of the ocean of milk, Rahu drank the nectar that made him immortal. However, Vishnu in his form as Mohini cut off Rahu's head before the nectar could pass through his throat. His head became Rahu, and his body, Ketu. They continue to chase the Sun and the Moon, causing eclipses when they catch their prey. Christopher Columbus and the Eclipse in Jamaica** An interesting historical anecdote involves Christopher Columbus. It was during his fourth voyage to the New World in 1504, when he and his crew were stranded in Jamaica. The indigenous people had grown weary of providing them with food. Columbus, knowing an eclipse was imminent and armed with astronomical data from an almanac, told the natives that his god was angry with them for ceasing their provisions, and the anger would be shown by making the moon disappear. When the lunar eclipse occurred, terrified, the natives quickly provided him with more supplies. Modern Science and Lunar Eclipses** In modern times, a lunar eclipse is well understood. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon, and the Earth's shadow falls on the Moon. Lunar eclipses have also had a notable influence on literature and folklore. For instance, Shakespeare often referenced eclipses to set the mood or represent dark omens in his plays. In many cultures, an eclipse could symbolize havoc, chaos, or divine intervention. Eclipses and Astrology** Even today, eclipses play a significant role in astrology. An eclipse is often considered a powerful time of change, signalling huge opportunities for personal growth and transformation. Many people plan important events, rituals, and personal milestones around eclipses for their purported celestial significance. Through these stories and historical accounts, one can appreciate how lunar eclipses have been perceived not just as astronomical events, but as profound occurrences intertwined with myth, legend, and historical developments in human societies. Impact of Lunar Eclipses Physical Effects: Scientifically, there is no evidence to suggest that lunar eclipses have any direct physical effects on human. Psychological and Emotional Effects: Lunar eclipses can evoke a range of emotions and psychological responses. Emotional Impact of Lunar Eclipses 1. Heightened Emotions: During a lunar eclipse, some people report experiencing heightened emotions, ranging from intense anxiety to great excitement. T 2 Reflection and Release: Given that lunar eclipses occur during a full moon, they are often linked to the culmination and completion of certain life phases. 3. In astrology, lunar eclipses are considered powerful times that can illuminate hidden aspects of our inner lives. Looking for a PERSONAL CONSULTATION? Please write to us on connect@dollymanghat.com with your birth details and we will help you schedule a consultation accordingly or fill out the form on our website https://www.dollymanghat.com All Consultation Options Here: https://www.dollymanghat.com/consultation/ Download Astro eBooks, Calendars and Planners from our store! https://www.dmtreasure.com God Bless @DollyManghat https://www.dollymanghat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manghatdolly/