Halo: a sign of good fortune or misfortune?

Members of the public recently observed a halo in the sky (an encircling of the sun), and while this phenomenon is not necessarily new, it doesn’t happen often, and has different interpretations based on different beliefs.

Below are different interpretations of the halo: Science

According to EarthSky, a scientist’ portal, this circle is caused by cirrus clouds floating above in the sky. “Tiny ice crystals in the Earth’s atmosphere interact with the light rays, and create the halos by reflecting the light. It happens a lot when there is access in humidity in the atmosphere, and the sunlight is absorbed and refracted. In other cases, lunar halos are often a sign that storms are nearby.” Meteorology

Although The Midweek Sun could not get an official comment from the Department of Meteorological Services at the time of going to print, they have in recent weeks indicated that Botswana should brace for a rainy season, with possible floods in some areas. Interestingly, the last time a halo was recorded in Botswana was in 2016, when there were Dineo floods. Astrology

The halo has another interpretation according to astrology. Astrologer, Monica Dube-Sekhwabe of The Spiritual Phoenix, told The Midweek Sun that the halo around the sun on the day that there is to be a super new moon (moon) closer to earth and hence more powerful) in Scorpio is to signify a major new beginning that will transform every single one of us from the inside, spreading without.

“We are entering a cycle where you will be mirrored back your true form, your surroundings and how others treat you will be how you feel about yourself.

“What you allow to permeate you, your mind, body and soul counts, it is a reminder in Scorpio season that you are a spirit in a body, not the other way around,” she said.

She said one of the biggest reasons we are here on earth is to live our truth to the highest form. “The super moon in Scorpio on the 15th of November was illuminating parts of our unspoken truths, and the unspoken truths from others and how this affects us like a halo around the sun, if you are on the right path you are protected, so go forward in peace”.

Christianity

Many Christians believe that the halo signifies that the Kingdom of God is near. Theology student and upcoming pastor, Thomas Phalatse said the halo was a heavenly sign of prophecy.

He quoted a Bible verse from Luke 21: 25-26: ‘There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea…When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is near.”

Phalatse said he did not discredit the interpretation of science, but said we must keep in mind that it is God who created heaven and earth, and everything in it.

Setswana beliefs

According to traditional Setswana beliefs and superstition the halo reflects the coming of a rainy season, according to traditional leader Kesolofetse Mokgethi of Gakuto. She said in the old days such a phenomenon indicated that floods were close by.

“While it is good news for the farmers, it also served as a warning for people to prepare themselves and their lands and homesteads,” she said.