Blood Moons and Bible Prophecy? Let’s Set the Record Straight

This September, a total lunar eclipse—often called a “blood moon”—will be visible across parts of the world, including Africa, Europe, Asia, and Australia. It’s a stunning sight. The moon turns a deep red as it passes through Earth’s shadow.

But does it carry prophetic or theological meaning?

No.

Despite what’s circulating on social media, this blood moon has no eschatological significance. Lunar eclipses are common, natural phenomena—happening roughly every two to three years in different parts of the world.

The fact that this eclipse is visible over Jerusalem does not mean it is linked to the Second Coming of Christ, biblical prophecy, or symbolic signs. These are not truths drawn from sound astronomy or theology.

Some claims even suggest:

• Saturn (visible in the night sky) represents the “kingdom of darkness”
  

• The Moon symbolizes the Messiah
  

• This eclipse over Jerusalem holds spiritual meaning
  

All of these are incorrect.

Astronomy and faith need not be in conflict—but conflating natural events with forced symbolism is not how we understand either Scripture or science. As a professor of astronomy, I can confidently say: the moon turning red is a marvel of nature, not a message from heaven.

At Reasons to Believe Africa, we believe in truth rooted in both the Word of God and the observable universe.

Let’s appreciate the heavens for what they are—a declaration of God’s glory—without distorting them through conspiracy or speculation.