Symbolism of the Moon- Extended

Moon’s Influence

Moon’s Influence

The Moon’s constant orbiting over the earth influenced the early societies with a powerful symbol for the human life. From eclipse to full moon, its forms were of special significance. These also have an effect on tides, weather, and general life.

Lunar Eclipse

Lunar Eclipse

All the cultures of the world have different myths about the lunar eclipse. Some believe that eclipse is a curse of natural disasters or death. Some Asian society thought that eclipses were done by a demon or dragon.

Waxing and Waning

Waxing and Waning

The periodic waxing and waning of the Moon symbolize the birth, life, death, and rebirth. The crescent represents growth, while the waning moon symbolizes death.

Mayan Calendars

Mayan Calendar

The Mayan introduced a system of calendars tracking the cycles of the moon, Sun etc. Some other cultures like Romans, Chinese, Jewish, Celtic, and Islamic are also based on the lunar cycles.

The Full Moon

Full Moon

The full Moon symbolizes the wholeness and power. The Chinese believed that its a symbol of Yin and the feminine. To Buddhists its a symbol of spiritual power. The biggest full moon represents agricultural fertility. The word “lunatic” was invented from the Latin for the moon, Luna. And this originally meant “Moonstruck”. This also believed that the full moon has influence over wild animal behavior and humans.