You shouldn't yell at the Northern Lights due to traditional beliefs, particularly among the Sámi people, who regarded such actions as dangerous and disrespectful, potentially alerting the powerful celestial display to your presence.
Historical and Mythological Context
For centuries, various cultures have held deep reverence and sometimes fear for the mesmerizing aurora borealis. Among the Sámi, indigenous people inhabiting the Arctic region of Sápmi, the Northern Lights were considered a profound and often ominous phenomenon. They were sometimes believed to be the souls of the dead, imbued with a powerful, otherworldly presence.
The Danger of Interaction
Given their mystical and potent nature, interacting with the Northern Lights in certain ways was thought to be perilous. The belief was that specific actions could "tease" or "alert" the lights to human presence, which was to be avoided. Yelling, similar to other forms of loud or disruptive communication, was seen as a direct engagement that could provoke an undesirable reaction from the spirits or energies embodied by the aurora.
To maintain safety and show proper respect, it was traditionally advised to avoid actions that would draw attention to oneself under the Northern Lights. Such actions included:
- Waving: Signaling or physical gestures.
- Whistling: A sharp, attention-grabbing sound.
- Singing: Musical expressions that could be interpreted as a challenge or invitation.
- Talking Loudly or Yelling: Any vocalization that was not subdued or respectful.
These practices were rooted in the understanding that the aurora was not merely a natural phenomenon but a living, aware entity that could react to human behavior, potentially bringing misfortune or danger to those who disrespected its power. Therefore, maintaining silence and a sense of solemn observation was considered the safest and most appropriate conduct.
