What Does a Yellow Moon Mean? (Plus, the Science Behind It)

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Spiritual interpretations of a golden moon and what to do when you see one

Co-authored by Jennifer McVey, Cht and Sophia Bell

Last Updated: July 18, 2024 References

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Spiritual Meanings

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What to Do

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Scientific Explanation

A yellow or golden moon is a beautiful sight to behold, and symbolizes abundance and prosperity. While the harvest moon, which typically has a golden hue, occurs around the autumnal equinox, you might see a yellow moon anytime of year, due to the moon’s position in the sky or even because of dust or pollution in the atmosphere. We’ll break down all of the spiritual meanings of a yellow moon below, as well as what to do when you see one.

Things You Should Know

A yellow moon has positive spiritual meanings, including peace, optimism, abundance, balance, and prosperity.
During a yellow moon, make time to meditate and manifest your desires. Or, perform a full moon ritual like a moon bath to soak up positive celestial energy.
When the moon is low on the horizon, it looks yellow because the red wavelengths are more prominent while the blue ones have scattered.

Section 1 of 3:

Spiritual Meanings of a Yellow Moon

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If you see a yellow moon during the autumnal equinox (usually around September 23rd in the Northern Hemisphere), it’s known as the harvest moon.^{[1]
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Research source} The harvest is a time of abundance, as farmers reap the rewards they’ve sown to plant and tend to their crops. Take a moment to appreciate all of the abundance in your own life when you spot the golden glow of the harvest moon.
The yellow moon signifies good fortune. Count your blessings and take pride in all areas of your life that are thriving. Hard works pays off, and now’s the time to sit back and enjoy your success.

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During the autumnal equinox, day and night are of equal length, lending balance to light and dark.^{[2]
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Research source} This time also brings balance to life, allowing you to dedicate time to work and play, productivity and rest.
The color yellow is often associated with sunshine, joy, and energy.^{[3]
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Research source} So, it’s no wonder a yellow moon is a symbol of positivity! Look for the silver lining and rejoice in all the little things that make life a wonderful experience.
When you spot a golden moon, pause and take a moment to be grateful for all of life’s blessings. Even when times are tough, there are still things to be grateful for—from that rich cup of coffee to get your day started or the green traffic lights on your way to work to the health of yourself and loved ones or a recent promotion, savor the good things.
The yellow color of the moon invokes feelings of joy and optimism.^{[4]
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Research source} Just as the moon cycles through phases, so do we all, and it’s a reminder that good things are coming, even if they are tough right now.
As the moon rises and sets daily, it reminds us that every day is a new chance to be our best selves and meet our goals. Let a yellow moon inspire you to renew your faith and optimism and meet challenges head-on.
Life isn’t perfect, and there are a lot of things we can’t change, but a yellow moon is a reminder to accept things for what they are. If something’s within your control, of course you can put in the effort to make it what you want it to be, but if it’s not, give it up to the universe. It has your best interests at heart, and you may find peace in surrendering.
When you see a golden moon, let it be a reminder to connect with your loved ones. Share a meal from this year’s harvest, enjoy a drink around a campfire, and celebrate the people in your life that bring you happiness and share your sorrows.
Now’s the time to go after what you want. Put in the effort to make your dreams a reality and let the golden glow of the moon inspire you to persevere. Though life is full of challenges, we can overcome them with dedication and determination.
If you’re holding a grudge or hanging onto to negative emotions, let them go under the yellow moon. Forgive yourself and others and move forward with purpose. Don’t look back—you’re not going that way.
While many of the meanings of a yellow moon are positive, this one is is a warning. In some cultures, yellow is associated with betrayal and dishonesty.^{[5]
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Research source} If you have a feeling someone in your life might not being straightforward with you, trust your gut and proceed with caution.

Section 2 of 3:

What to Do During a Yellow Moon

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Meditate to gain peace. Turn your focus inward, release negative thoughts, and set positive intentions for the future. To meditate, choose a quiet, calm location, sit in a comfortable position, and focus—the goal is not actually to empty your mind, but to narrow it on a particular focus. You might focus on your breath or repeat a mantra or intention. If your mind wanders, gently direct it back to your focus.^{[6]
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- Try an intention or mantra such as “I am at peace,” “I attract abundance,” “I am filled with positivity,” or “I accept myself.”
To manifest, simply focus on the things you want. Visualize what you hope to achieve, whether that’s a successful career or fulfilling relationship, then take steps to obtain what you desire. You might look for new job opportunities or focus on improving communication with your partner, for instance. Stay positive, believe in the power of abundance, and keep working to achieve your goals.^{[7]
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Harness the power of the celestial by doing a full moon ritual. Sleep under the moon, take a full moon bath, charge your crystals, or do a smoke cleanse.^{[8]
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Research source} Invite positivity and peacefulness into your life during a golden moon.
Now might be the perfect time to shake things up. If a relationship isn’t working for you, break things off. If you’ve been wanting to move to a new city, take the leap. It can definitely feel scary, but remind yourself that you’re capable of handling anything that comes your way.^{[9]
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Section 3 of 3:

The Science Behind a Yellow Moon

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The moon looks yellow when it’s near the horizon or because of pollution. When the moon is low in the sky, its light travels farther and more of the blue wavelengths scatter. That leaves more of the red wavelengths visible to the eye. Additionally, dust and pollution in the atmosphere can lend more of a yellow tint to the moon.^{[10]
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- A harvest moon is a full moon that occurs right around the autumnal equinox. The name refers to the farmers’ harvest period, in which they used to rely on the light of the full moon before electricity enabled people to see and work after dark.^{[11]
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