Last Updated on September 8, 2025 by Turkana County News Online
THE DEATH OF THE MOON: MODERN AND TRADITIONAL VIEWS ON LUNAR ECLIPSE IN TURKANA.
It is clear and evident that yesterday, all witnessed a remarkable cosmic event often described by the Turkana community members as ‘The death of the moon’.
The last time such a lunar eclipse happened was in 2018, when a similar bloody moon was sported almost the same time of the night. This rare occurrence has fascinated both the town people and the modern Turkana pastoralists.
From the scientific point of view, lunar eclipse occurs when the earth passes directly between the sun and the moon, casting its shadow on the moon and blocking sunlight from reaching it. This phenomenon only happens during the full moon phase.
Among the Turkana, there exists a deep and instinctive correlation between the sun, moon and the stars, each holding great religious and cultural significance.
The sun symbolizes the presence of god and ancestors, guiding the intentions of the day.
On the other hand, the moon is a holy aspect that symbolizes life of livestock and the people. The moon determines if the Turkana will celebrate their ceremonies or not.
The celestial stars are said to be homes of the departed souls and they define pastoral activities.
The available literature has it that, all the Ateker communities beat drums when the ‘moon dies’. It is alleged, the sounds from drums is directed to the ancestors and the traditional gods to pardon the moon if it had committed a wrong.
At this time, all people go silent and in a solemn mood. And when the moon gets clear, all break into song and dance.
Others will intone prayers of appreciation.
“Nakinae ajako. . .
“Nakinae akiyar. . .
Et cetera.
Article by Lokorikeju Jnr II
