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Cancer, also known as the star sign of Cancer or the zodiac constellation of Cancer, has its origin in ancient mythology and astronomy. In this article, we will explore the fascinating story behind the Crab-shaped constellation that bears the name of Cancer.
The Crab in Mythology
In Greek mythology, the Crab is associated with the story of Heracles (Hercules) and his twelve labors. One of these labors required the hero to defeat a giant Hydra, a multi-headed serpent that guarded the entrance to the underworld. During the battle, the goddess Hera, who hated Heracles, sent a giant crab to aid the Hydra. The crab pinched Heracles' foot, but the hero kicked it so hard that it flew to the sky and became a constellation.
In other mythologies, the Crab is linked to the moon, the tides, and the goddess of love and fertility. In Egyptian and Babylonian cultures, the Crab was seen as a symbol of renewal, rejuvenation, and protection from evil spirits.
The Crab in Astronomy
The constellation of Cancer is located in the northern hemisphere, between Leo to the west and Gemini to the east. It is a small and faint constellation, consisting of two main stars, Acubens (Alpha Cancri) and Al Tarf (Beta Cancri), and several dimmer stars that form a backward "C" shape that resembles a crab.
In ancient times, Cancer was considered to be the northern gate of the sun, as it marked the summer solstice, the point when the sun reaches its highest elevation in the sky and the longest day of the year. Cancer was also associated with water and the sea, as its position coincided with the rising and falling of the tides.
In modern astronomy, Cancer is best known for its rich cluster of galaxies, the Cancer Cluster, which contains some of the most distant and massive galaxies in the visible universe. The cluster is located some 230 million light-years away from Earth and is a popular target for astronomers studying the evolution of galaxies.
The Meaning of Cancer
As a zodiac sign, Cancer is associated with people born between June 21 and July 22. According to astrology, Cancer is a water sign, which makes its natives emotional, sensitive, and intuitive. Cancer is also known for its nurturing and protective qualities, as well as its love for home and family.
In astrology, the Crab is linked to the moon, which represents the inner world of emotions and instincts. Cancer is said to be ruled by the moon, which gives it its lunar qualities of changeability, nurturing, and intuition. Cancer is also said to be a cardinal sign, which means it initiates and takes action in the world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the origin of Cancer is a fascinating journe【更多相关资讯请访问wWW.77788812.CoM>12生肖星座】y through the myths and stars of ancient cultures. From the story of Heracles to the mysteries of the Cancer Cluster, Cancer bears the legacy of the cosmic forces that shaped our world and our understanding of it. As a zodiac sign, Cancer reminds us of the importance of nurturing our emotional and intuitive sides, as well as our connection to our roots and our home. May the Crab always guide us through the ebb and flow of life, and may we learn to appreciate its depths and nuances.