Ancient Civilizations & Solar Eclipses

The ancient Greeks believed that a solar eclipse was a sign of the gods' pleasure.

In Chinese mythology, it was believed that a lunar eclipse was caused by a dragon that was devouring the moon.

In Polynesian myths, the solar eclipse signified a battle between Sun & Moon, the outcome determining the world's fate.

In Hindu mythology, the solar eclipse is said to occur when the demon Rahu swallows the moon.

In Egyptian mythology, the solar eclipse was believed to be a battle between the gods Horus and Set.

In some Native American cultures, the eclipse was a time of spiritual cleansing & people would feast during the event.

In ancient Babylon, it was believed that a solar eclipse was a good omen for the king.

In Japanese mythology, a giant frog named Jinja was said to swallow the moon during a lunar eclipse.

Norse myths state a pair of wolves named Skoll & Hati chased Earth & Sun causing eclipses when they caught up with it.

In Maya mythology, people would make offerings to the gods to prevent the solar eclipse.