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๐#7 Mythology and Religion of Eclipses
Unraveling Ancient Beliefs
The beliefs surrounding eclipses in ancient times were shrouded in fear and mystery due to a lack of scientific understanding.
Johannes Kepler's work in the 17th century provided a scientific explanation for eclipses.
Shedding light on their true nature.
In various mythologies, eclipses were seen as a spiritual battle between the sun and malevolent forces or spirits of darkness.
The sight of the sun seemingly disappearing caused great anxiety among those who lacked an understanding of the scientific principles governing eclipses and among followers of mythological gods.
The sun held deep reverence in many ancient religions.
Norse Mythology
For instance, in Norse mythology, Fenrir, a wolf, perpetually pursued the sun.
And eclipses were believed to occur when the wolf successfully devoured the divine sun.
Similarly, two wolves named Skรถll and Hati, chasing the sun and the moon, were believed to cause an eclipse when one of them successfully consumed either the sun or the moon.
This mythological explanation fueled widespread fear among those who regarded the sun as a divine power.
As eclipses were often perceived as the downfall of their revered god.
![](https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/e5294fa9-17da-4969-ae44-4da402605615/Norse.png)
Hindi Mythology
Across different mythologies and certain religious traditions, eclipses were considered an ominous sign of divine anger.
Often indicating impending danger.
People modified their behaviour in an attempt to appease the gods and avert their wrath.
For example, in Hinduism, individuals recited religious hymns to safeguard themselves from the malevolent spirits associated with eclipses.
Many Hindus refrained from eating during an eclipse.
Believing it would protect them from the effects of these spirits.
Hindu devotees in India would cleanse themselves in the spiritually revered Ganges River following an eclipse.
Seeking purification from evil spirits.
![](https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/006cf12a-5a14-49dc-a966-18e83c771c0e/Hindu.png)
Christian Mythology
In early Judaism and Christianity, eclipses were regarded as signs from God.
Some eclipses were perceived as demonstrations of God's greatness or symbolic representations of cycles of life and death.
Particularly foreboding eclipses, such as a blood moon, were believed to be divine omens signalling the imminent destruction of their enemies.
![](https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/796891a7-153a-4670-a602-56b34ca878e6/Christian.png)
Our Mythology
The Eclipse is a wondrous event that reveals hidden truths and nurtures our dreams.
As disciples, we celebrate the beauty of darkness and reject fear.
Through self-discovery, we emerge stronger and more enlightened.
๐ Quote of the Week:
Do every act of your life as though it were the very last act of your life
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โ Phillip โฉ๏ธ (@PhillSteinchen)
11:02 AM โข Jul 3, 2023
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See you next Sunday ^^