WHY THE SUN AND THE MOON LIVE IN THE SKY

Efik-Ibibio Folktale — Southeastern Nigeria
62" × 45" — Woven Cotton
Artist: Modutsane

Long ago, when the world was still young, the Sun and the Moon lived together on Earth. They were husband and wife, and among their closest friends was Water. The Sun often visited Water, but Water never returned the visits. One day, the Sun asked, “Why do you never come to my home?” Water replied, “I would gladly visit you, but your house is not large enough for me and all my people. I am much greater than you imagine, and I cannot come without bringing them with me.” The Sun, determined to be a generous host, promised to build a much larger house. He returned home and told the Moon what he had promised. Together, they prepared a great compound for their friend. When the house was finished, the Sun invited Water to visit. The next day, Water arrived. Before entering, he called to the Sun and asked, “Are you certain it is safe for me to come inside?” “Yes,” the Sun replied. “Come in, my friend.” Water began to flow into the house, bringing with him all his people—the fish and the other creatures that lived within him. Soon the water was knee-deep. Water asked again, “Is it still safe for more of my people to enter?” “Yes,” said the Sun. More water flowed in. Soon it reached the height of a person’s head. Again, Water asked, “Shall I bring in more of my people?” The Sun and Moon agreed, not realizing how much more was yet to come. The water continued to rise until Sun and Moon were forced onto the roof of their house. But even there, the water kept rising. With nowhere else to go, Sun and Moon climbed higher and escaped into the sky. And that is where they have remained ever since—Sun shining by day and Moon watching over the Earth by night.

Moral of the Story:
Generosity and hospitality are virtues, but wisdom requires us to understand our limits and listen when others warn us of the consequences.