Solar Eclipse: Myths and Facts

As we are observing the longest Solar Eclipse today (dated 21^st June 2020), let’s talk and discuss a bit about the myths and facts related to the solar eclipse in India as well as other countries.

When it comes to eclipse, then there are as many talks as many mouths. Different countries have their beliefs related to the eclipse. Do we really know what solar eclipse means scientifically and also, mythlogically?

Talking about the scientific definition it says, “A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between Earth and Sun, thereby totally or partly obscuring the image of the Sun for the viewer on Earth.” In simpler terms, the solar eclipse occurs when the portion of the Earth is covered with the shadow casted by Moon and this in turn fully or partially blocks the sunlight.

Mythologically, specifically in India, a solar eclipse is considered to be inauspicious as per the Hindu mythology. Even if Sun disappears for a short period of time then it is considered to be unhealthy.

There is a large of myths related to the solar eclipse be it in India or some other countries. Some of the myths and facts have been mentioned below:

1. MYTH: It is believed that one should not cook or eat during the solar eclipse. But in my thoughts, it is just a myth or can be considered as superstition. Since solar eclipse is a natural phenomenon and therefore, it does not change any property of any food items.
2. FACT: One should not look at the sun directly during the time of solar eclipse. This is true in every case because in solar eclipse, it produces harmful rays which can damage retina. The only safe way to look at the sun is through solar filters.
3. MYTH: It is said that the pregnant women give birth to unhealthy and distorted children if they go out. But there has been no such facts or cases like this so, this can said to be a baseless myth. Well! This could be true if they connected this with the rays which can harm the lady in any way.
4. FACT: During the period of solar eclipse, the driving is not recommended. As per AAA that is the American Automobile Association, people should avoid driving and if they have to, then they should drive with their headlights on and safely park their car before observing the event along with the adequate protection with the proper gear.
5. MYTH: It is a common belief that there are no total solar eclipses observed at the North or South poles of Earth. But this is totally false as there is nothing special about these locations considering the astronomic aspects. The last total solar eclipse which was seen from the North Pole itself was on 20^th March 2015. On the other hand, the last total solar eclipse which was seen from the South Pole was on 23^rd November 2003.

Other countries.

• In ancient China, it has been believed that a celestial dragon eat up the Sun which eventually causes Solar Eclipse. Factually speaking, the Chinese word of an eclipse, chih or shih, means to eat.

• On the other hand, in Vietnam, there have been many beliefs like a solar eclipse is caused by a giant frog devouring the Sun, whereas, Norse cultures believes that the wolves eat up the Sun.

• Korean people tend to believe that there are mythical dogs which try to steal the Sun.

• There is an indigenous group of people who live in the north-western region of United States. They are referred to as POMO. They tend to believe that there is a story of a bear fighting with the Sun and further, took a bite out of it.

• In Italy, Italians do believe something good about the solar eclipse. They say that the flowers planted during this time are brighter and more colourful in comparison to the flowers which are planted at any other time of the year.

• In the New Mexico, there is a Tewa tribe, who believe that the solar eclipse indicates that the Sun is angry which in turn had left the skies to go to its house in the underworld.

• According to the beliefs of ancient Greeks, the solar eclipse is said to be a sign of angry gods and therefore, it is considered as the beginning of the disasters and destruction.

You may or may not believe in such type of myths or superstitions related to the solar eclipse, but they definitely comfort those who believe in mythical celestial events who find comfort in them. But in excess, these do tend to harm the peace at people’s heart.

Peace Out and Enjoy!

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