With four eclipses scheduled for this year, including two lunar and two solar eclipses, the first solar eclipse of the year is set to take place on April 20th. During a solar eclipse, the Moon comes between the Earth and the Sun, causing the Sun to be partially or entirely obscured from the Earth’s perspective. This year’s solar eclipse will occur in Aries and Ashwini Nakshatra, as per astrology.
It will be a hybrid solar eclipse, which is a rare event and involves a combination of an Annular Solar Eclipse and a Total Solar Eclipse. This type of eclipse causes the Sun to form a ring shape for a few seconds around the Moon, but it is not safe to view the eclipse with the naked eye. This is especially true for pregnant women, who should take precautions to ensure a healthy pregnancy during this event.
What does ‘Sutak’ mean?
Sutak’ refers to the inauspicious time before a solar eclipse, according to Dr Savarkar. During this time, it is believed that the Earth’s atmosphere is contaminated, and it is essential to take extra precautions to avoid any harmful effects caused by this contamination.
Is a solar eclipse considered good or bad luck?
The perception of solar eclipses as good or bad luck varies depending on one’s culture. In India, there are many myths and beliefs that consider an eclipse to be a bad omen. However, this perception is not universal across all communities and cultures in the country.
What are the potential effects of a solar eclipse on a pregnant woman?
Ancient beliefs and astrology suggest that solar eclipses can be harmful to pregnancy. It is believed that if an expecting mother is exposed to the direct rays of the sun or moon during an eclipse, it may cause physical deformities, cleft lips, or birthmarks in the developing baby. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
What precautions can pregnant women take during a solar eclipse?
To ensure a healthy pregnancy during a solar eclipse, pregnant women should take the following precautions:
- Stay indoors throughout the entire duration of the eclipse.
- Cover doors and windows with thick curtains to prevent harmful rays from entering indoors.
- Do not directly or indirectly watch the eclipse.
- Avoid sleeping during the eclipse.
- Refrain from using sharp objects like needles, scissors, or knives.
- Avoid any risky activity that could lead to injury.
- It is recommended to avoid consuming or cooking any food during the eclipse, and only freshly cooked food should be consumed after the eclipse. If hungry, it is suggested to consume thoroughly washed fruits.
- Do not apply oil on hair or body during or before the eclipse.
- Take a bath after the end of the eclipse to wash away any potential negative effects of the ‘Sutak’.
Here are some frequently asked questions about Solar Eclipse 2023:
When will the Solar Eclipse 2023 occur?
- The Solar Eclipse 2023 will begin at 7:04 AM and end at 12:29 PM.
Will the Solar Eclipse 2023 be visible in India?
- No, the hybrid solar eclipse of 2023 will not be visible in India. It will only be visible from western Australia, East Timor, and eastern Indonesia between 21:36 Eastern Daylight Time on April 19th and 2:59 AM.
What happens if you look directly at the sun during an eclipse?
- Exposing your eyes to the sun without proper eye protection during a solar eclipse can cause retinal burns, also known as solar retinopathy.
What is the effect of an eclipse in astrology?
- In astrology, solar eclipses are believed to signify new beginnings and change. They often mark the beginning of a new cycle or phase in our lives. When viewed positively, solar eclipses can bring unexpected opportunities.
Is it okay to pray during an eclipse?
- During a solar eclipse, it is advised not to touch or worship deities. Even temple doors are usually closed during eclipses.
For more details on Solar eclipse visit: Solar eclipse – Wikipedia
