NEW DELHI: As the world anticipates the total solar eclipse sweeping over North America on April 8, 2024, various religious traditions reflect on the celestial event's significance, ranging from moments of dread to awe. Historically, solar eclipses have evoked profound reactions across different faiths, seen as messages from the divine or significant spiritual occurrences. Christianity's end times propheciesSome Christian interpretations align solar eclipses with biblical prophecies of the end times and Christ's return. The darkness mentioned in the Gospels during Jesus's crucifixion has been likened to a solar eclipse, symbolizing a profound spiritual transition. Despite scientific explanations that a three-hour darkness could not result from an eclipse, the metaphorical significance remains strong within some Christian circles. Islam's call to prayerFor Muslims, a solar eclipse is a call to prayer, a reminder of the might of Allah, and a time to dispel superstitions associated with astronomical events. The "kusuf" prayer, performed during solar eclipses, is an occasion for introspection and reaffirming one's devotion to God, aligning with the teachings of Prophet Mohammad. Hinduism's legend of immortal conflictHindu mythology explains eclipses through tales of gods and demons, with the sun and moon being swallowed by the demon Rahu as revenge. Eclipses are generally seen as ominous, prompting observant Hindus to fast, pray, and engage in purification rituals to ward off evil influences during these times. Judaism's interpretation as ominous signsThe Talmud does not prescribe blessings for eclipses but views them as ill omens for the world. Modern interpretations within Judaism encourage prayer and introspection during eclipses, suggesting that these natural phenomena serve as reminders of the impact of human actions on divine light. Buddhism's auspicious opportunity for spiritual practiceIn Tibetan Buddhism, solar eclipses are considered auspicious times when the energy of actions, both positive and negative, is magnified. The late Lama Zopa Rinpoche emphasized the importance of engaging in spiritual practices like chanting mantras and sutras during these events, with the belief that merits are significantly multiplied. Navajo Nation's sacred observanceAs per an Axios report, for the Navajo people, a solar eclipse represents a time when the sun undergoes death and rebirth, offering a moment to realign with the natural laws of the universe. "It's believed that the sun is dead, but it's going to rejuvenate, rebirth itself in the cycle so that we're able to live in harmony with the natural laws again," explains Henry Fowler, a math educator at Navajo Technical University. To honor this cosmic order, Navajos engage in a period of quiet meditation, abstaining from eating, drinking, sleeping, and other physical activities during the eclipse. (With inputs from agencies)

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Awe and dread: Why some will stay inside, won't watch total solar eclipse - The Times of India