‘Blood moon’ to be visible tonight in Saudi Arabia

The Middle East has its own “blood moon” myths. Al-Quidihi recalls being told that she would be blinded if she looked at the moon during an eclipse. In one Gulf myth, the moon was bloody because it has been swallowed by a whale and then regurgitated when people on earth repented of their sins and prayed loudly.

A pregnant woman who looked at the moon during an eclipse was condemned to suffer psychological pain in life, according to another myth.

The eclipse is also inspiring artists, such as art teacher and astrophotographer Abdulrasheed Murad.

“I am very excited — a lunar eclipse is one of the greatest wonders,” he said. “Taking photographs is my way of educating people, and encouraging my community to look up and wonder,” he said.

There has already been one total lunar eclipse this year, on Jan. 31, and the next is scheduled for next Jan. 21. But such apparent frequency should not make us indifferent to what we are witnessing.

“It’s an amazing time and people all over the country are attending viewing parties or workshops,” said Al-Quidihi.

“The wonders of the universe are something to behold, and I am elated that for this lunar eclipse, our society is finally breaking away from the fears of the eclipse and just looking up in amazement.”

So, do as the learned woman suggests. Get out. Turn your face to the sky. Look. Marvel.