Introduction

Lunar and solar eclipses have traditionally been associated with beliefs and superstitions in various cultures around the world, including among the Mossi and Yaana of Burkina Faso. The two communities are culturally very close. In the following lines, we will analyze their social perceptions of these astronomical phenomena.

Perception of Lunar Eclipses

Lunar eclipses can evoke various reactions among the Mossi and Yaana peoples of Burkina Faso, often reflecting beliefs and cultural interpretations. Some traditional perceptions may include ideas associated with omens, myths, or stories that have been passed down through generations. In both communities, the lunar eclipse is often perceived as a celestial event symbolizing imminent changes, divine intervention, or a representation of a struggle between good and evil. In the latter case, the younger members of these communities take to the streets and start beating boxes, barrels, etc., to accompany the forces of good in their battles against those of evil. For them, a cat would have seized the moon, and without their noise, it would definitively take the moon away, depriving humanity of this great jewel. The world would then remain plunged into the darkness of night for eternity.

As for the initiated adults, it is also a war between good and evil. The actions taken by children in such circumstances contribute to strengthening good and weakening evil, but also to preventing the death of their king. The forces of evil, such as malevolent sorcerers, individuals with dark designs, evil spirits, etc., who find in such periods an opportunity to attack the inhabitants (especially babies, the sick, etc.), are thus rendered powerless.

Perception of Solar Eclipses

Similarly, solar eclipses can be interpreted through specific cultural and religious lenses for the Mossi and Yaana. Solar eclipses may be associated with traditions, rituals, or particular practices, or be interpreted as prophetic signs or warnings of events to come. The perception of solar eclipses can also be influenced by oral traditions passed down in communities, as well as by symbolic interpretations based on cultural and historical contexts. For the Yaana of the Dourtenga commune, a solar eclipse would inevitably result in the death of the chief of the Yarsé, a clan of the said canton. Despite the fact that nothing could prevent this misfortune, the wives of the Yarsé chief cut branches from a tree called “bélé” in Yaana and hit them together three times in order to mitigate the damage. They are accompanied in these efforts by the wives of the chief of the Dourtenga canton, who also shout three times in order to free the sun from the clutches of the cat.

Conclusion

Overall, the perception of lunar and solar eclipses among the Mossi and Yaana of Burkina Faso is likely to be deeply rooted in the cultural traditions and belief systems specific to these communities. Eclipses may be perceived as celestial events carrying symbolic, spiritual, and cultural meanings and may be associated with rituals, interpretations, and practices related to ritual calendars, religious beliefs, and traditional teachings.