From avoiding intercourse with "menstruating women" to sacrificing redheads so that the Sun is not "devoured": this is how eclipses have been interpreted throughout history

Throughout history, solar eclipses have been interpreted through various cultural and mythological lenses, often viewed as ominous events requiring specific human responses. Ancient accounts describe these phenomena as celestial disruptions, with historical narratives ranging from the sacrifice of red-haired individuals to the implementation of social taboos, such as avoiding sexual intercourse with menstruating women, in attempts to prevent the sun from being consumed.

One notable historical instance occurred in the 6th century B.C. during a prolonged conflict between the kingdoms of Lydia and Media. According to historical records, a solar eclipse interrupted the five-year war, leading the opposing sides to cease hostilities as they interpreted the sudden darkness as a significant omen.