What is the mythology of Betelgeuse?

Betelgeuse, one of the brightest and most recognizable stars in our night sky, holds a significant place in the mythologies and cosmologies of diverse cultures across the globe. Far from being just a scientific marvel, this red supergiant has inspired countless stories, serving as a celestial marker for gods, heroes, and seasonal changes.

Cultural Interpretations of Betelgeuse

The mythology surrounding Betelgeuse is deeply intertwined with its constellation, Orion, but also stands on its own in various traditions. Its striking reddish hue and prominence make it a natural focal point for ancient stargazers.

Greek Mythology

In Greek mythology, Betelgeuse is primarily associated with Orion, the Hunter. Located in Orion's right shoulder (from the perspective of the observer), the star marks a key part of this legendary figure. Orion himself was a giant and a skilled hunter who boasted that he could kill any beast. His stories often involve confrontations with animals and figures like the scorpion, which led to his placement in the sky alongside his hunting dogs (Canis Major and Canis Minor) and the constellation Taurus (the bull he hunted). Betelgeuse, as a visible part of Orion, thus embodies the strength and fiery nature attributed to the mythical hunter.

Ancient Egyptian Mythology

For the ancient Egyptians, Betelgeuse was incorporated into their constellation known as Osiris, their powerful god of the underworld, rebirth, and fertility. The Egyptians saw a direct link between the celestial patterns and their spiritual beliefs, often aligning the stars with their divine pantheon. Osiris's constellation, which corresponds to what we now call Orion, was particularly significant, symbolizing new beginnings and the journey into the afterlife. Betelgeuse, as a prominent star within this constellation, would have been seen as an integral part of Osiris's celestial form.

Other Notable Cultural Mythologies

Beyond the Greeks and Egyptians, Betelgeuse has been observed and interpreted by numerous other civilizations, each weaving it into their unique cultural tapestries.

• Arabic Astronomy: The name "Betelgeuse" itself is derived from the Arabic phrase "Yad al-Jauza," meaning "the hand of al-Jauza." Al-Jauza was an ancient Arabic female figure, sometimes a central female figure or even a goddess, associated with the constellation that largely overlaps with Orion. This highlights Betelgeuse's association with a powerful, central entity.
• Chinese Astronomy: In traditional Chinese astronomy, Betelgeuse is known as "Shēn Sù yī" (参宿一), or the "First Star of the Three Stars." The "Three Stars" constellation (Shen Xiu) represents a hunter, a general, or even the White Tiger of the West, one of the Four Symbols of the Chinese constellations. Betelgeuse marked the tiger's shoulder or body, symbolizing military prowess and power.
• Indian Astronomy (Hindu/Vedic): Betelgeuse is identified as "Ardra" (आर्द्रा) in Vedic astrology, one of the 27 Nakshatras (lunar mansions). Ardra is associated with Shiva, particularly his destructive and transformative aspect, Rudra. It is often depicted as a jewel or a teardrop in the head of the "Mrigashirsha" (the deer's head) constellation, which corresponds to parts of Orion. Ardra's energy is often linked to effort, struggle, and transformation, aligning with Betelgeuse's fiery nature.
• Māori Astronomy (New Zealand): In some Māori traditions, Betelgeuse is known as "Puanga." While Matariki (the Pleiades) is widely celebrated as the start of the Māori New Year, Puanga was important for communities living further south where Matariki was less visible. Puanga's appearance in the dawn sky signaled the approach of winter and was used to determine the timing of the new year festivities and planting seasons.
• Australian Aboriginal Astronomy: Various Aboriginal groups have diverse interpretations. For example, the Yolngu people of Arnhem Land see Orion as a canoe, and Betelgeuse might be interpreted as a 'fish spear' or a 'fighting stick' within this celestial canoe, reflecting their hunting and survival practices. Other traditions may associate it with figures in their Dreaming stories related to hunting or significant events.

Summary of Betelgeuse in Mythology

The enduring presence of Betelgeuse in these diverse mythologies underscores humanity's long-standing fascination with the cosmos and its intrinsic need to find meaning and tell stories about the stars.