Niarrukkut Apusiqtuq (ni.aʁːukːut a.pu.si.qtuq)
"During Niarrukkut Apusiqtuq, we thank the moon and the stars and the aurora for bringing us light throughout the dark months, and we welcome the return of the sun."
On many of the islands in the Northern Region, the sun does not rise above the horizon for several months during the winter. In the heart of winter, the sky doesn't even brighten to twilight, and darkness covers the land and sea. But winter passes, and the night ends. When the time of darkness comes to a close, the Taaru Peoples celebrate the traditions of Niarrukkut Apusiqtuq, the Return of the Sun.
Iluqqiq Anirnirnirmut
The first night of Niarrukkut Apusiqtuq is called Iluqqiq Anirnirnirmut, and it is held under the last full moon before the sun returns to the sky. This ceremony is dedicated to the lights of winter night, and thanks the Anirniit of the moon, stars, and the aurora. These gods watched over the people through the long dark, and their light helped ease the burden of darkness. During this ceremony, the people will extinguish and relight all their oil lamps in honor of the heavenly lights, a gesture that is repeated several times during Niarrukkut Apusiqtuq. The angaqoqs will then lead the people in a slow chant to the heavens, letting their voices carry their thanks and praise to all the Anirniit of the sky. Finally, offerings of winter-work are presented for the Anirniit - these objects are crafted by hand during the dark night, and include clothing, tools, and art.
Siqiirtuq Inungnut
After Iluqqiq Anirnirnirmut is the period known as Siqiirtuq Inungnut, the Coming of Dawn. The exact length of this time can vary from year to year, and it continues until the sun first edges above the horizon. During this time, the people seek the guidance of the Anirniit for the coming year - they prepare their tools and make their plans, and the angaqoqs cast the fortunes of their ilagiit. Prophetic and advisory dreams are common during this time, and many young people will undertake trials to mark their transition to adulthood. The exact nature of these trials varies from place to place but often involves solitary trips into the wilderness, or even a quest into one of the Dreamlands.
This is also a time to honor the other Anirniit who helped the people through the winter, with an emphasis on the spirits of the home, the land, and the animals and plants who live there. In many places, this is the time of the Tuktuqniaqtuq, or Caribou Dance. This is a celebration of the Caribou specifically, and involves elaborate costumes and an all-night dance to honor their part in sustaining the people. The Tuktuqniaqtuq is often cited as one of the most fun parts of the season, and different ilagiit will compete to create the most impressive costumes.
Utuqqaqtuq Siqiniq
Siqiirtuq Inungnut ends upon the morning of Utuqqaqtuq Siqiniq, when the sun first becomes visible upon the horizon. A great feast is prepared the night before to welcome the Anirniit of the sun, and to encourage them to bring their light and warmth to the land. Once the sun appears, the people break out into cheers and song, filling the air with laughter and merriment. Many people will weep with joy to see the sun's return, and tears are seen as good luck for the year to come. Once again, the lanterns of the people are put out, and they are not relit until the sun has dipped below the horizon once more.
Utuqqaqtuq Siqiniq is a time of great celebration, and continues until the sun has risen a hand’s breadth above the horizon, a period that takes two to three weeks. The day it reaches this height is called Siginiq Uumayuq, the Sun is Risen, and marks the beginning of the year. Upon this day, the people exchange gifts made during the winter, and ilagiit acknowledge those young people who have become adults during the Siqiirtuq Inungnut. It is also a traditional time for marriages, and many couples will be united the day the year begins.
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This article was originally written for Spooktober 2024. You can find all of my Spooktober Articles at Spooktober Central.
This article was originally written for Spooktober 2023. You can find all of my Spooktober Articles at Spooktober Central.
These traditions sound amazing and beautiful. I think I would definitely weep when I saw the sun after a long winter.
Explore Etrea | March of 31 Tales
Thank you!