Tidslåsing

Tidslåsing is a Norwegian term that refers to the practice of using sundials or other devices to tell time based on the position of the sun. The word "tid" means "time" in Norwegian, while "låsing" can be translated to "measuring" or "determining". In the context of tidslåsing, it refers to the ancient method of measuring time using the shadow of a vertical stick or a sundial.

Tidslåsing was a common practice before the widespread use of mechanical clocks in Europe. By observing the position of the sun and the length of shadows, people could estimate the time of day. This method was particularly useful for farmers, who needed to plan their daily activities according to the position of the sun.

Tidslåsing involves recognizing that the sun moves across the sky from east to west, with the shadow of a vertical stick or sundial moving in the opposite direction. By using a gnomon, a vertical stick or pin, and observing its shadow, people could determine the time of day. The method is also based on the fact that the sun's position in the sky changes depending on the time of year and the location on the earth.

Although tidslåsing is an ancient practice, it is still used today by some enthusiasts and in educational contexts to learn about the basics of timekeeping and astronomy. The technique requires a good understanding of the movements of the sun and the principles of celestial mechanics, but it can be a useful tool for anyone interested in learning about ancient time-keeping practices.