Northern Lights Myths And Legends
The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, have captivated human imagination for centuries. Their ethereal dance across the night sky has inspired countless myths and legends, each reflecting the culture and beliefs of the people who witnessed this celestial ballet. From ancient tales of gods and spirits to modern interpretations, the aurora holds a special place in the hearts of those who have gazed upon its beauty.
Myths and Legends
Among the Inuit, the Northern Lights are often seen as the spirits of the dead playing games or dancing in the sky. Some Inuit tribes believed the lights were the spirits of animals they had hunted, while others saw them as the souls of their ancestors. These beliefs influenced their behavior and rituals, fostering a deep respect for the natural world and the afterlife. In some tales, the lights could be communicated with through whistling or singing, a way to connect with loved ones who had passed on.
A popular belief among some Inuit tribes is that the Northern Lights are the spirits of the dead playing a ball game using a walrus skull as the ball. This playful imagery reflects a sense of joy and connection to the afterlife. The Northern Lights are also seen as guiding lights for the recently departed, helping them find their way to the afterlife. It is believed that these lights hold torches that illuminate the path to the land of plenty, a place of abundance and peace.
The National Museum in Nuuk and Itsanitaq Museum in Churchill are some of the best resources for learning more in Inuit traditions and culture.
Norse Mythology
In Norse mythology, the aurora borealis was often associated with the Valkyries, female figures who chose who would live and die in battle. It was believed that the lights were the reflections of their armor as they rode across the sky to collect the souls of fallen warriors. This association added a sense of drama and heroism to the lights, connecting them to the very fabric of life and death, and the glory of battle.
In some interpretations, the Northern Lights were thought to be sent by Odin, the chief god in Norse mythology. He was believed to send the Valkyries to retrieve the souls of brave warriors, and the auroras were seen as a divine signal of his presence and favor. This connection to Odin added a layer of reverence to the lights, as they were not just a natural phenomenon but a manifestation of divine will and the cycle of life and death.
Beyond their mythological roots, the Northern Lights inspired various forms of art, poetry, and storytelling in Norse culture. They were woven into the fabric of their understanding of the world, symbolizing beauty, mystery, and the connection between humanity and the cosmos.
Sex under the Northern Lights
Conceiving a child under the Northern Lights is steeped in fascinating beliefs, particularly in Japanese and Chinese cultures. It is thought to be an auspicious event, with the belief that children conceived during this celestial display will be blessed with good looks, intellect, and a generous dose of good fortune. In these traditions, the aurora borealis is seen as a powerful symbol of luck and prosperity, suggesting that the magical energy of the lights can impart wisdom and positive traits to the child. This enchanting belief adds a layer of romance and wonder to the experience of witnessing the Northern Lights, making it not just a visual spectacle but also a moment filled with hope and dreams for the future.
On a trip to Northern Iceland some years ago a receptionist at our hotel told us of their Aurora wake up call. They found it amusing how on receipt of the call most visitors would rush out to try to catch a glimpse of the lights, whereas many Japanese and Chinese guests would be hanging "do not disturb" signs on their doors.
Aurora as Omens
Across different cultures, the aurora has also been interpreted as a sign of impending events, a harbinger of good fortune, or a warning of danger. Some believed the lights could influence weather patterns, while others saw them as a bridge between the mortal world and the realm of the gods. These beliefs highlight the human desire to find meaning and order in the natural world, using the aurora as a canvas for their stories and understanding.
Today, the Northern Lights continue to inspire artists, architects, writers, and dreamers. They are a reminder of the power and beauty of nature, and the enduring human fascination with the unknown. Whether viewed through the lens of science or the prism of myth, the aurora borealis remains a timeless symbol of wonder and mystery, inviting us to look up and marvel at the magic unfolding above us.