How 6 ancient cultures explained a solar eclipse

A solar eclipse was a perplexing event prior to a scientific explanation. (Photo: Bryan Goff via Unsplash)

A solar eclipse was a perplexing event prior to a scientific explanation. Throughout history, eclipses have been viewed as disruptions of the natural order, often associated with ominous omens by various cultures around the world. Here’s how six ancient cultures interpreted them:

Chinese

Ancient Chinese mythology attributed solar eclipses to celestial dragons attacking and devouring the sun. To frighten away the dragon and save the sun, people would make loud noises during an eclipse. Lunar eclipses, however, were seen as mundane occurrences.

Indian

In Hindu mythology, solar eclipses are linked to the cunning demon Rahu, who sought immortality by drinking the nectar of the gods. Beheaded by Vishnu, Rahu's decapitated head flies across the sky, occasionally swallowing the sun.

Incan

The Inca believed solar eclipses signified the wrath of Inti, the sun god. Following an eclipse, sacrifices were offered to appease him, and fasting was common practice.

Native American

According to Choctaw legend, a mischievous black squirrel nibbling on the Sun causes eclipses. Similarly, Ojibwa and Cree tales feature a boy named Tcikabis who snared the Sun in revenge for burning him, triggering an eclipse until a mouse freed it.

West African

According to Batammaliba legend, human conflict spread to the sun and moon, causing them to fight and trigger an eclipse. During eclipses, the Batammaliba seek peace and reconciliation.

Egyptian
Although ancient Egyptians did not leave explicit records of solar eclipses, scholars speculate that such events were deliberately unrecorded to avoid unsettling the sun god Ra or were lost over time. Experts, however, have noticed references to metaphorical blindness in ancient texts coincide with historical eclipse dates, possibly symbolising these events.

These diverse mythologies offer fascinating insights into how ancient cultures interpreted and understood the phenomenon of a solar eclipse, reflecting both their awe and apprehension toward this celestial event.