Cosmos/Moon/Religion: Difference between revisions
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The moon was also a symbol of renewal and rebirth in many Native American cultures. It was believed that the moon’s light had healing powers, and that it could help to bring balance and harmony to the world.
===Islam===
The moon has always been symbolic and apparent in Arab culture. From holidays to music, to literature, to superstitions, the moon has manifested itself in many of the inner-workings of Arab existence. The moon has also emerged as a symbol for Islam, as the crescent and star have become almost symbols of the religion. This is prominent in the mosques and other religious symbols of the region. The crescent and star are also seen on multiple flags in the region which pays tribute to the dominant religion as well as the culture tied into the symbolism of the crescent and star. Countries like Algeria, Libya, Tunisia, and even Turkey all have symbols of a crescent and star.
The moon is also a symbolic of Islamic Traditions. One of the main ways it manifests itself through this culture is the prominent use of the lunar calendar. In the Arabic lunar calendar, there are 12 months, each with 29 or 30 days depending on the moon sighting on the last day. This has created a culture of anticipation for the results of the moon at the end of every month.
One of the main ways this is seen in modern Arabic culture is the wait for Ramadan. The anticipation for the arrival of Ramadan is built up throughout the year and the last couple of days before its arrival many await to see what date will the fasting begins. If the moon is seen on the 29th night, this means that there will be prayers that night and fasting will begin the next morning. However, if the new moon is not seen that night, that means everyone will have to wait another day before the fasting starts. This tradition comes to a close by the end of Ramadan when people await to see when the Eid celebrations will begin.
It transcends religious lines from the Judeo-Christian tradition to pagan pre-Islamic Arabia to Islam. The prominence in the moon in all three of these cultures indicated a unique understanding of the moon that is specific to the region. These traditions also did not die over time, as even today; they are still a hallmark of culture and tradition. From elders to little kids, everyone seems to have a personal relationship with this symbol. It’s beautiful to look up at the night sky and know that the same moon has inspired entire nations by its light and glow and it continues to do so every day.
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