Introduction
The fascinating connection between the Dogon civilization, the Sirio B and Mali star has generated an intense debate between historians, astronomers and enthusiasts of ancient history. How could an ancient culture like that of the Dogons have had precise knowledge of the existence of an invisible star at sight? In this article, we will thoroughly explore the history, science and mysticism surrounding the Dogon and Sirio B in the context of Mali. Join us on this journey to discover if it is really an ancestral astronomy or a modern myth.
History and Background
The Dogon civilization, originally from Mali, has been subjected to intense study and controversy in academic and esoteric circles. This community dates back centuries, when the Dogons occupied the plains of the Niger River in West Africa. His deep astronomical knowledge has astonished many, especially as regards his supposed understanding of Sirio B, a white dwarf star that cannot be seen in the naked eye. The Dogons claim to have gained that knowledge of alien beings known as 'Nommo', part of their rich mythological legacy.
During the 20th century, French anthropologist Marcel Griaule conducted an extensive study on Dogon society. Griaule and his colleague Germaine Dieterlen, in his work "Los Dogon de Mali", describe in detail the cosmogony, astronomy and complex social structure of this enigmatic community.
The beliefs of the Dogon have also been subject to speculation and controversies, particularly with regard to the Sirio B star. This white dwarf star is part of the Syrian system, the brightest star in the night sky. Modern astronomers discovered Sirio B just in 1862, using advanced telescopes and observation techniques. However, the Dogon accounts suggest that their knowledge of Sirio B dates back to ancient times, long before modern astronomers discovered the existence of this star.
Detailed Analysis
The riddle of the so-called Dogon understanding of Sirio B has led to numerous debates and analysis in the academic community. Some experts have raised the possibility that the astronomical knowledge of the Dogons has been passed through generations, thus preserving an ancestral knowledge of the position of Sirio B in the star system. On the other hand, critics argue that these claims are influenced by the biased interpretations of external observers, and that there is no solid evidence to support the connection between the Dogons and the knowledge of Sirio B.
Theories and Evidence
- Ancestral Transmission of Knowledge: Some scholars suggest that the Dogons may have received astronomical knowledge of European travelers or explorers before the arrival of Griaule. This theory suggests that the Dogons could have integrated this knowledge into their mythology and oral tradition.
- External Influences: Critics argue that Griaule and Dieterlen's conclusions may have been the result of misunderstandings or exaggerations. According to this perspective, the accounts on Sirio B could have been formed from a mix of contemporary observations and the influence of Western researchers.
- Modern interpretations: Some contemporary authors have used Dogon claims to support theories of the visit of alien beings in ancient times. This theory, popularized by writers like Robert Temple in "The Sirius Mystery", proposes that the Dogons received advanced knowledge of visitors from another planet.
Comprehensive review
The impact of this controversy transcends the scope of astronomy and acquires sociocultural and anthropological nuances. The revaluation of ancestral cosmogonies, respect for traditional wisdom and interactions between scientific knowledge and mythological narratives are intertwined in this complex scenario. Moreover, recent attention focused on the role of indigenous communities in preserving natural knowledge and biodiversity adds a contemporary element to this discussion.
Cultural and anthropological aspects
- Cosmogony Dogon: Dogon cosmogony is rich and complex, integrating aspects of everyday life with astronomical observations. The Dogons have rituals and festivals that reflect their understanding of the cosmos, and their stories about the Nommo are central to their mythology.
- Preservation of Knowledge: The way the Dogons preserve and transmit their knowledge through oral tradition is a fundamental aspect of their culture. This knowledge transmission method may have influenced how your astronomical accounts are perceived and understood.
Scientific and Mystical Implications
- Astronomy Ancestral: If it was proved that the Dogons had knowledge of Sirio B before modern discoveries, this could indicate a significant astronomical sophistication in ancient cultures. This would open up new questions about the transmission and preservation of scientific knowledge in ancient societies.
- Modern myth: Alternatively, if it is concluded that the assertions about Dogon and Sirio B are the result of misunderstandings or modern influences, this would reflect the way modern myths can be formed and persisted.
Conclusion
The connection between the Dogon and Sirio B remains a theme of fascination and debate. While some see in this history an evidence of advanced ancestral astronomy, others consider it a modern myth influenced by external and contemporary interpretations. What is indisputable is the wealth of Dogon culture and the depth of its cosmogony, which remains a fertile field for research and reflection. The exploration of these topics not only illuminates the knowledge and beliefs of an ancient culture, but also invites us to consider how we understand and value historical and scientific narratives.
This article has explored the intriguing relationship between Dogon and Sirio B, presenting various theories and perspectives. Through the analysis of history, science and mythology, we have sought to understand better whether it is an ancestral astronomy or a modern myth.