The fact that in most lands the moon was originally a female deity has led many historians to dispute the superiority of the moon over the sun in ancient mythology. In putting forth this argument they overlook one important and significant factor: the existence of a matriarchate preceding the domination of woman by man. That such a condition was perfectly natural will be realized when it is remembered there was no recognition of the part played by the male in fecundation.
Source: wiktionary