A Guide to Slavic Mythology
Briefly about the infamous Slavic mythology
Last Updated
02/09/23
Chapters
16
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531
Lunula
Chapter 14
Lunula is a pendant in the shape of a crescent, well known in the circles of people interested in ancient history. The etymology of its name is associated with the old word "luna", which was used to describe the moon in Slavic culture. Lunula still enjoys unflagging popularity, especially among women, being one of the most frequently chosen elements of Slavic jewelry. It is certainly an excellent proposition for men who want to give a gift to a woman important to them. Lunula - why does it still attract?
Lunula is a symbol known for years not only to the Slavs, but also to other peoples, including those who had little in common with our ancestors. How is it possible that people in different parts of the world used similar symbolism? The reasons should be sought in the fascination with the Moon and the lunar cycle - after all, the lunar cult was always and everywhere very popular. This beautiful celestial body has been accompanying humanity since forever, invariably illuminating the nights of successive generations. The unusual appearance of the moon made people instinctively endow it with magical properties. They also noticed the analogies between the cyclical changes of the Moon and the phenomena to which nature and man are subject.
Lunula - femininity in full bloom
When looking for the symbolism of the lunula, one should follow the path of the basic laws of human physiology. It is impossible not to notice the similarity between the lunar phases and the female monthly biological rhythm. Probably this fact is one of the reasons why the lunula is considered a symbol of femininity. At first glance, it may be surprising that it is a crescent moon, not a full moon - finite and perfect. However, if you look more closely at the analogy of the lunar cycle with the female cycle, you can see something more - it is in the middle of the cycle that a woman reaches the peak of fertility. And yet the cult of fertility was an extremely important element of beliefs, ceremonies and rituals. The deeply rooted instinct for survival, which characterizes every living being, was inherent in it.
Lunula and female beauty
Leaving aside purely biological considerations, it is worth noting the slightly more romantic aspects of the lunula. Perhaps the beauty and brilliance of the moon made people notice the similarity between him and a woman who was equally beautiful and full of light.
Lunula - a symbol, amulet, talisman
Who and for what reasons reached for the lunula? Today, lunula is worn most often because of its unquestionable beauty, to celebrate Slavic roots or to emphasize femininity. It is probably rare for anyone to believe in its magical properties. However, in the past, the lunula was not only a symbol, but also an amulet with magical properties. Its power was focused on ensuring fertility, perhaps protecting women expecting a child, protecting against diseases, charms, and also giving the favor of the gods. The reason why men reached for it - as we know thanks to archaeological discoveries - is a mystery. Did the amulet also fulfill its magical functions in their case? Or maybe it was a memento of a beloved woman - but these are, of course, too far-reaching digressions.