Throughout history, objects of great power—especially those whose influence is not fully understood—have often become the focus of superstition. The Moon is a prime example. In fact, more superstitions surround the Moon than perhaps any other object in the sky.
Some lunar superstitions have a basis in observation. For instance, it is said that fishing is more successful during the day when the Moon is waning, as fish can see food more easily in brighter light. However, many beliefs about the Moon are less grounded in fact. Notably, several of the more unusual superstitions were promoted by early church leaders, who sought to discourage lunar worship by instilling fear. These efforts, however, only increased the Moon’s mystique and drew more interest to Her silvery glow.
Here are some of the most well-known superstitions associated with the Moon:
Beauty: It is believed that women should avoid sleeping with moonlight shining on their faces, as the Moon might distort their features and take away their beauty.
Birth and Pregnancy: According to superstition, pregnant women exposed to moonlight while sleeping may become “moonstruck” and give birth to children with diminished mental abilities. It is also said that if a child is born during the Waning Moon, the next sibling will be of the opposite sex. If a child is born during the Waxing Moon, the next sibling will be of the same sex. Children born between the Waning Moon and the New Moon are thought to be weak and unlikely to live long.
The Devil: Some traditions claim that the devil resides on the Moon and controls it, and that those who gaze at the Moon risk falling under his influence.
Fence Building: To ensure a wooden fence remains strong and does not rot, it is recommended to set the posts during the Waning Moon. The lower rail should be laid when the Moon’s horns point upward, and the fence should be completed when the horns point toward the Earth. This method is said to prevent anything—even children—from escaping.
Fishing: The advice is to set hooks at night during the Waxing Moon, and to fish during the day when the Moon is waning.
Home Building: Foundations laid during the black, or New Moon, are believed to sink into the earth. Additionally, it is said that roofing should only be done when the Moon is dark, to prevent shingles from warping.
Livestock: Animals born during a Waning Moon are thought to be weak and unlikely to survive the month.
Luck: Bowing to the New Moon is believed to bring good fortune. Conversely, seeing a New Moon through tree branches is considered unlucky. Pointing at the Moon is generally thought to bring bad luck, and doing so at the first New Moon of the year is said to result in twelve months of misfortune.
Weddings: For a fortunate marriage, it is recommended to schedule the ceremony twenty-four to forty-eight hours after the Full Moon. In Scotland, it is traditional to marry during the Full Moon to ensure long-term happiness.
Wood-Cutting: Cutting wood during the Waning Moon is believed to protect it from termites and worms, and to make it burn more slowly.
While many of these superstitions may seem unusual or outdated, they reflect the enduring fascination and reverence people have held for the Moon throughout history.
