Category: Deities

Goddess Grace

GODDESS GRACE

 

I am the Goddess of a thousand names and infinite capacity.
All Her gifts are mine.
All Her powers reside in me.

I am Athena of Greece.
Life my totem, the owl, I am wise
For I see and hear everything around and within me
Like the oak, I am strong for the olive of peace is sacred to me.

I am Bast, cat goddess of Egypt
I am graceful, flexible, playful and affectionate
I radiate the warmth and light of the glorious sun.

I am Cerridwen of Wales
My magic cauldron contains food for the soul
An inexhaustible source of wisdom and inspiration
The more I give, the more I receive.

I am Diana, Roman goddess of the ever-changing moon.
I am a protectress of women and children
A guardian of the wild
I focus my aim on my heart’s desire and draw it to me.

I am Ereshkigal, Assyro-Babylonian goddess of the underworld
Queen of the Great Below
I shed dead skin to grow
Deep powers of renewal are mine.

I am Freya, Well-beloved Nordic Lady
I survey the beauty of my world in joyous flight
I celebrate and honor the bonds between friends and lovers.

I am Gaia, Greek Earth Mother
Grounded and centered in the rhythms and patterns of chaos
I emerge to create my usiverse.

I am Hecate of Greece
Triple Goddess of the crossroads of choice
I balance by powers of thought and my emotion
I choose the path I walk
The torch of my reason is illumined by my brilliant intuition.

I am Isis, Egyptian Queen of the World
I offer healing and transformation to all in need
I hold the power to shape my world.

I am Jagad-Yoni, Hindu universal yoni, womb of the world
I am the gatekeeper of the next generation
I choose the life that emerges through me
I use my power wisely.

I am Kwan-Yin of Buddhist China, goddess of compassion
I hear and comfort the wounds of the world
I welcome children and teach the magic of change.

I am Liban, Irish mermaid goddess
I revel in the healing power of pleasure
Quench your thirst at my sacred well.

I am Maat of Egypt
Truth, justice and law are the natural order of my universe
Harmony arises as I attune to my divine will.

I am Nu-Kua, Chinese dragon-tailed creatress
I restore the cosmic equilibrium
I form community among women and men
Connecting in equality of love and respect.

I am Old Spider goddess of Micronesia
I created the moon, the sea, the sky, the sun
And the earth from a single clamshell
All the vast and varied universe is present
In the smallest forms of life.
As above, so below
As within, so without.

I am Pele, Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes
My fiery energy erupts from my core to create new worlds
I flow easily over obstacles in my path.

I am Qedeshet of Syria
I balance lightly on the lion I ride
Laughter lifts me from the pull of gravity
The lotus blossom I hols and the serpents I carry
Symbolize the life and health I bring.

I am Rhiannon, horsewoman, Divine Queen of Wales
My steady pace is swift and smooth
I travel freely through the world, safe, serene and secure
My winged friends can wake the dead
And lull the living to sleep.

I am Sedna of the Eskimos
Know and honor me through my animals
Bears, whales and seals
All creatures of the land and sea are part of me.
We share the right to be.

I am Tiamat of Babylon, primordial sea-serpent
I am the great mother womb
Who brought forth the earth and heavens
I dive deep into the watery unconscious
To find the treasures buried there.

I am Uttu, Chaldean-Sumerian goddess of waving and vegatation
I offer shelter and nourishment to all who know me
We weed and clothe each other through our work.

I am Vasudhara, Hindu goddess of abundance
My six arms hold everything you need and offer it to you
Earth, Water, Fire, Air, Center, Spirit
Purpose, Love, Passion, Wisdom, Here, Now.

I am Wite woman of Honduras
I descend from heaven to build my temple on earth
And return as a glorious bird.
I honor and express my true spirit
My beauty is beyond compare.

I am Xochiquetzal, Aztec goddess of flowers, love,
spinning, weaving, singing and dancing.

I am an Original Woman
I delight in sharing my many gifts.

I am Yemaya, Nigerian Fish Mother, Brazilian Voodoo mermaid
Lakes, rivers and oceans are my home
The waters of life belong to me
We cleanse and sustain each other.

I am Zoc, Gnostic Acon of Life
Mother of All Living
I am the embodiment of growth and vitality
I am unique life energy.

I am the Goddess of a thousand names and infinite capacity
All Her gifts are mine
All Her powers reside in me.

We are the Goddess of a thousand names and infinite capacity
All Her gifts are mine
All Her powers reside in me.

You are the Goddess of a thousand names and infinite capacity
All Her gifts are thine
All Her powers reside in thee.

 

 

Gods – Egyptian Anubis God Of Death

Egyptian God Anubis – God Of Death

Anubis Facts

Anubis was the god of the dead and the underworld until the Middle Kingdom, when this role was taken over by Osiris.

He is one of the oldest gods, references in text go back as far as the Old Kingdom.

Anubis is the inventor and god of embalming and mummification.

He guided the death through the underworld (called Duat).

Anubis was the Guardian of the Scales, used to weigh the hearts of dead souls.

His high level of anatomical knowledge due to embalming made him the patron of anesthesiology.

A crouching statue of Anubis took a central place in Tutankhamun’s tomb.

Priests who performed the embalming of dead corpses wore a jackal mask.

Greek mythology blends Hermes with Anubis to result in the god Hermanubis.

Anubis is known as the god of death and is the oldest and most popular of ancient Egyptian deities. The ancient Egyptians revered Anubis highly because they believed he had tremendous power over both their physical and spiritual selves when they died.

References to Anubis are found in texts dating back to the Old Kingdom. His fame lasted until the Middle Kingdom, when his role as God of death was taken over by Osiris and Anubis became Osiris’ assistant.

Ancient Egyptians strongly believed in the afterlife, which was an essential aspect of their culture and religion. They considered death a transition to another realm rather than an end.

His Roles included all the following:

  • God of Mummification
  • Protector of tombs and cemeteries
  • Guide of souls in the afterlife
  • Ruler of the underworld
  • Gardian of the Scales of Justice

Anubis The Jackal God

Anubis was either seen as a man with a jackal head or completely in the form of a jackal.

In ancient Egypt, scavengers like jackals ruled the cemeteries. They dug up the freshly buried and tore at their flesh and ate it. Historians believe that this is what prompted the ancients to portray the god of the afterlife as a jackal, to fight fire with fire. New genetic research indicates that the ancient Egyptian jackal is not a jackal at all, but an ancient wolf.

Anubis’ skin is often depicted as black, while jackals are typically brown. The reason is that the color black is a symbol of death, but also a symbol of the Nile’s fertile and black soil.

The Main Role of Anubis

Absolute ruler of the underworld

In very ancient history Anubis was known to be the absolute ruler of the underworld (called Duat). Later theories indicate that this role was taken over by Osiris. Anubis was responsible for overseeing the realm of the dead and ensuring the souls of the deceased were guided safely to their final resting place. As the ruler of the underworld, Anubis was also tasked with maintaining order, protecting the dead from malevolent forces, and ensuring the proper balance between the worlds of the living and the dead.

The Guardian of the Scales:

One of his many roles surrounding the dead included the Guardian of Scales where he dictated the fate of souls. As depicted in the Book of the Dead, Anubis weighs the decedent’s heart against the weight of a feather. The feather represents “Ma’at” or truth. If the scale of justice tipped toward the heart, the dead person would be consumed by Ammit, a female demon the ancient Egyptian people dubbed “devourer of the dead.” If the scale of justice tipped toward the feather, Anubis would lead the decedent to Osiris so he could ascend to a worthy existence in heaven.

The God of embalming and mummification:

Anubis held the important role of overseeing the embalming and mummification of the dead. It was essential to the ancient Egyptian belief in the afterlife. Mummification was intended to preserve the body, allowing the soul, or “ka”, to recognize and reunite with it in the afterlife. Anubis was believed to oversee and guide the embalmers during the mummification process. Anubis’ role as the god of mummification solidified his importance in the spiritual journey of the deceased.

Several rituals were performed to honor Anubis during the mummification process. One such ritual was the “Opening of the Mouth” ceremony, which involved a priest wearing an Anubis mask and touching the mouth of the mummy or statue with special tools. This ritual was believed to restore the deceased’s ability to speak, breathe, eat, and drink in the afterlife. Offerings of food, drink, and other necessities were presented to Anubis, seeking his favor and protection throughout the mummification process and the journey to the afterlife.

The daughter of Anubis (Kebechet), is frequently seen as his assistant in the mummification process of the dead. Ancient Egyptians believed that Anubis sniffed the bodies of the dead, so they preserved them with sweet smelling herbs and plants.

Protector of Tombs:

As the Egyptian god responsible for protecting the dead, many prayers to Anubis were carved into their tombs and offerings were made to him to ensure the safety of the deceased’s remains. Anubis his role as protector of the deathextended to both the physical protection of the tombs from grave robbers and the spirutual protection of the death from malovent forces Anubis held this role until Osiris gained popularity and took it over.

Scepter and ankh

In ancient Egyptian art, Anubis is often depicted holding specific items that symbolize his roles and responsibilities. The most common objects held by Anubis are the “was” scepter and the “ankh.”

The “was” scepter (𓏭) is a long staff with a forked base and a stylized animal head at the top, typically that of a canine. This powerful symbol represents dominion, power, and authority, signifying Anubis’ status as a guardian and protector of the dead. However, the “was” scepter is not exclusive to Anubis, as it can also be seen in the hands of other Egyptian gods and pharaohs.

The “ankh” (☥) is a well-known ancient Egyptian symbol that resembles a cross with a loop at the top. It represents the concept of eternal life and is often called the “key of life” or the “key of the Nile.” When Anubis holds the ankh, it symbolizes his role in guiding the souls of the deceased to eternal life in the afterlife.

Anubis and Osiris

The mythology of the story varies, but according to legend:

  • Osiris’ brother (Seth), killed Osiris by luring him into a fancy coffin, sealing it shut, and pushing it into the Nile.
  • Osiris’ wife and sister (Isis), retrieved Osiris’ body on the Phoenician coastline, but an angry Seth chopped up Osiris’ body and scattered it throughout Egypt.
  • Anubis, Isis and Nephthys, set about to find the pieces and were successful (except for Osiris’ phallus).
  • Another Egyptian God called Thoth, helped restore the body and Anubis wrapped Osiris in linen, the action of which bestowed on him the title, “He Who is in the Place of Embalming”.

Anubis’ role shifted from being the primary god of the dead to a subordinate position to Osiris. Anubis became the god of mummification and guardian of the tombs, while Osiris assumed the role of the ruler of the underworld and judge of the dead.

Despite the shift in their roles, Anubis and Osiris maintained a cooperative and complementary relationship in the afterlif.

Anubis Family

Parents

Several versions exist of how Anubis came into being:

  • Son of Nephthys and Osiris: the most popular version is that Anubis is the son of Nephthys and Osiris. As the Goddess of Darkness, Nephthys would naturally be mother to a god who oversaw the embalming process and also guided souls into the afterlife.
  • Son of Nephthys and Seth: it is also speculated that Seth is Anubis’ father. In this version, it is believed that Nephthys disguised herself as Osiris’ beautiful sister, Isis, to beget a half brother for Horus. As Seth is the God of darkness, storms and destruction, it is easy to see how Anubis could be his son.
  • Son of Nephtys and Ra: in early mythology texts, Ra (the sun God), was depicted as being Anubis’ father, while his mother was speculated as being either Hesat the cow goddess, Bastet the cat-headed warfare goddess, or Nephthys.

  • Wife

    Anubis’ wife name is Anput (or Input), a lesser-known goddess in the Egyptian pantheon. Like her husband, she is associated with the afterlife, mummification, and the protection of the dead. Anput is usually depicted as a woman with a jackal or a jackal-headed human, similar to Anubis’ form. Her iconography is less prevalent in ancient Egyptian art and monuments than Anubis, but she is occasionally mentioned in texts and depicted in various artifacts.

  • Daughter

    Anubis and Anput are believed to have a daughter, Kebechet (or Qebehsenuef), who is also associated with the afterlife. Kebechet is typically represented as a snake or a snake-headed woman and is considered the goddess of purification, providing refreshing, purifying waters to the souls of the deceased during their journey to the afterlife. Her role complements that of her parents, further emphasizing the interconnectedness of the ancient Egyptian gods and their various functions in guiding and protecting the dead.

  • Anubis’ family relationships reflect the interconnected nature of ancient Egyptian gods, with each member playing a complementary role in the realm of the afterlife. As a family, Anubis, Anput, and Kebechet work together to guide, protect, and purify the deceased, ensuring their safe passage to the afterlife and ultimate reunification with their eternal body.

    A Shrine for Anubis

    Anubis was worshiped all over Egypt, and his cult center was in Cynopolis, located in the 17th nome (province) of Upper Egypt. Translated, Cynopolis is Greek for “city of the dog,” which fits well because of the close relation between jackals and dogs, and the fact that some scholars believe Anubis was indeed an ancient wolf.

    A shrine for Anubis was discovered in King Tut’s tomb in 1922. Made of wood, plaster, lacquer and gold leaf, the statue depicts Anubis in animal form in a recumbent position exactly how he is in his hieroglyph. As the sledge it rested on would indicate, the shrine was probably used in the funeral procession of the great Pharaoh, and was oriented to the west to help guide the Pharaoh into the afterlife (which the ancient Egyptians believed was in the direction of the setting sun).

    Anubis in Art

    Aside from the Anubis statue discovered in King Tut’s tomb, his representation can be found frequently in ancient Egyptian art. In the Valley of the Kings, an image of Anubis in his role as “Jackal Ruler of the Bows” was often used to seal tombs. The nine bows represented all the enemies of Egypt, and it was believed that Anubis had defeated every one of them. Anubis masks and statuettes dating back to early to late Ptolemaic period (332-30 BC) exist in museums today.

    In tomb paintings and murals, Anubis is often shown accompanying the deceased or presiding over the “Weighing of the Heart” ceremony, showcasing his importance in the soul’s journey through the underworld. Additionally, funerary texts and inscriptions frequently invoke Anubis’ name for protection and guidance, further highlighting his significance in ancient Egyptian religious beliefs and practices.

    Statues of Anubis, often in the form of a jackal or a jackal-headed human, were placed in and around tombs and mortuary temples to serve as guardians against potential physical and spiritual threats. The presence of Anubis was believed to deter grave robbers and protect the tomb from malevolent forces.

    Anubis in Modern Culture

    Anubis continues to hold a place in popular culture, with his image and mythology appearing in various forms of media, including literature, film, television, and video games. His jackal-headed form has become an iconic symbol of ancient Egyptian mythology, often featured in contemporary art and fashion. Anubis has also been a popular subject in fantasy and sci-fi genres, often portrayed as a powerful and mysterious deity with various supernatural abilities. Despite his ancient origins, Anubis’ image and symbolism continue to capture the imagination of modern audiences, serving as a reminder of the enduring legacy of ancient Egyptian culture.

Goddesses – Greek Olympian Demeter, goddess of earth and harvest

Demeter, goddess of earth and harvest

Demeter (Deo, Ceres) was a goddess of earth and harvest. Her greatest gifts to mankind was corn and the knowledge of agricultural techniques. She was also described by Nonnus, Orphic hymn to Ceres and Homeric hymn to Demeter as the Lady of the fruits (of the earth) and according to the latter also as the bringer of seasons. Mostly she was described as a daughter of the titan couple Cronus and Rhea but there are some conflicts among different authors where she was described as a daughter of Cronus and Cybelle. However, Gaea, Cybelle, Hestia, Rhea, Hera and even Demeter are quite often referred as the mother earth goddess which is why it comes to misidentifying the correct goddess. Anyhow, it is known that she resided in most of the mystery cults which were promising a path to blessed afterlife. She had several children of which Persephone was the most famous and due to her abduction by Hades, and Demeter’s search for her daughter, mysteries of Demeter were born. Most famous were Eleusinian Mysteries, the festivals which were held once a year, and the great festivals, held every five years at Eleusis in Ancient Greece where it all began and is closely connected to the myth of her daughter’s abduction. This event was of great importance and had its basis from an old agrarian cult which goes back to the Mycenaean period. This ceremony is believed to be the interpretation of the myth in three stages; descent, search and ascent, where the main theme of celebration was the ascent where, in the myth itself, Persephone is reunited with her mother.

Appearance in the works of art

Most of the time, she is depicted as an adult woman, holding torch in one hand and cornucopia in the other. The cornucopia was a goat’s horn that would give its owner whatever he desired. It symbolises rich harvest or an abundance of food. Sometimes, she is depicted with a golden blade, believed to be from the time of Titanomachy.

Gifts to Mankind

As mentioned above, Demeter’s greatest gift to humanity was corn and agricultural techniques. It is said that she was the first who discovered corn and later shared her secret with Tripolmenus while at Eleusis. She is also credited to had taught men how to sow corn, how to plough dirt and how to avoid all the troubles associated with it. According to Hyginus and Orphic hymn to Ceres, she even taught them how to tame oxen in order to help them plough the large amounts of earth later on. But that was not all, Demeter also instruced laws and obidience to men so that they could become accostumed to deal with one another justly and because of all these great blessings to humanity, she was awarded with the most notable honours, generous sacrifices and magnificent feasts and festivals by all men, even barbarians, who had partaken of this kind of food.

Love affairs and her descendants

The goddess was mentioned to had some love affairs but only one was due to her willingness. Her only true love was a mortal man by the name of Iasion, a prince of Samothrace. It is said that they made love in a thrice-ploughed fallow in the rich land of Crete but when Zeus had heard about this affair, he struck Iasion with a thunderbolt because of jelaousy. It was too late though as Demeter got pregnant and gave birth to Plutus and according to Hyginus, who claims that she had borne two sons, also to Philomelus. Zeus of course got his hands on her later and famous Persephone was concieved but some of the authors are not mentioning Zeus as her father. In Clement’s Exhortations, however, Zeus himself was actually a son of Demeter and later had intercourse with her and begat Persephone. Furthermore, Clement also talks about mysteries of Demeter and that they commemorate the amorous embraces of Zeus with his mother Demeter but, considering that she was, by some people, thought to be the mother goddess, this should come as no surprise. Anyway, the goddess was also courted by Poseidon but she had refused his advances and transformed herself into a mare to escape him but the god of the sea was unrelentless and tricked her into mating with him by transforming himself into a beautiful stallion. She later gave birth to a divine horse Arion and, according to Pausanias, to a girl whose surname was “Mistress” but does not want to reveal her first name to the uninitiated (in mysteries) people. Carmanor, a lord of Crete, is also said to be one of her mates with whom she later gave birth to Eubuleus.

The abduction of Persephone

When Persephone, her beloved daughter, was abducted, Demeter was searching for her in vain. Unable to find her, she in sorrow and anger burned all the fruits of the earth or, in another version of the story, she neglected to look after the crops and lands soon became barren. And upon “Demeter’s curse”, which caused great drought on lands and consequently famine, it was Hecate who came to Demeter and told her about what she had heard.

Together they went to Helios who was able to see all deeds from both mortals and immortals. He told Demeter that Zeus and Hades were to blame. The goddess became so mad that she had given ultimatum for the lands to stay barren until she was to see her daughter again. Finally Zeus intervened, scared of potentially seeing all mortals gone. He sent Hermes to the underworld to speak to Hades and try to convince him to let Persephone return to her mother. After Hermes’ successful persuasion, Hades was willing to let her go but on the other hand tricked her with honey-sweet pomegranate seed as farewell gift. Once eaten the seed, she became bound to the underworld and would have to return eventually. Demeter was once again outraged but in the end they had come to an agreement that Persephone could stay two-thirds of the time per year with her mother while she had to return to the underworld for one-third of the time. Demeter lifted the curse from the lands but, as a sign of protest, she was casting her sorrow each year when her daughter had to leave for the underworld. This was known as the winter time. This particular myth is very coveted among ancient authors so therefore the story itself may slightly vary from author to author such as where the abduction took place, where Demeter looked for her and in details where some authors provide further clues of the events that followed or events that had happened before the abduction.

Taking refuge in Eleusis

When Demeter was searching for her daughter Persephone, she took refuge at the palace of Celeus, the king of Eleusis. She took the form of an old woman and asked the king for shelter. Celeus welcomed her in and give her an assignment to nurse his sons Demophon and Triptolemus. As a token of gratitude in her dark times, she planned to make Demophon immortal by placing him in the flames of the heart, to burn away his mortal self. It is also said that, while in her care, the boy grew faster than normal and his face became godlike. When the time had come and Demeter wanted to cover the boy in flames, the ritual was interrupted because the boy’s mother Metanira came in and started screaming. The flames were put out and immortality attempt was put to an end. According to Ovid and Hyginus, however, it was his brother Triptolemus whom the goddess wanted to make immortal. It is said that later, after the failed immortality attempt, Demeter taught Triptolemus all the divine arts and mysteries of agriculture. Triptolemus then in return taught anyone who wished to learn. Before Demeter returned to Olympus, she instructed Triptolemus and Celeus on how to celebrate the rites in her temple which then became known as Mysteries of Demeter. It is also said that the lesser mysteries were held every year, but the greater mysteries only every five years.

Mysteries of Demeter

As mentioned above, Triptolemus was the first who had been initiated into mysteries of Demeter where the goddess shared all her secrets about earth’s fertility with him. He later spread these secrets to the initiated people and the mysteries became known as Eleusinian mysteries. But these were not the only mysteries associated with the goddess. Sabazian and Lernean mysteries and a lot of un-named mysteries are also being related to the mysteries of the goddess and there was also the day of Demeter or the day of Ceres mentioned by Fulgentis and Virgil.

Similar event is described by Ovid who calls it Games of Ceres and reveals how these are connected to the myth of Persephone and how it was celebrated. It is said that torches are present on this day as a memorial of Demeter’s search for her daughter when she kindled two pine-trees to serve her as a light after sunset. It is also said that, because Demeter broke her fast at nightfall after unsuccessful quest of searching for her daughter, the initiates time their meals at night during ceremony and they wear white robes because this is the goddess’ proper color which is believed to be associated with harvest. Ovid also mentions that a fox is burned at the festival as a memorial to the incident of a “vixen fox” which was caught by a young lad and set on fire in retribution for carrying off many farm fowls. But the burning fox had escaped his hands and ran into a corn field that caught on fire and all the crops for the incoming winter perished in flames. Therefore, a certain law of Carseoli forbade to name a fox on that day and as a punishment, to the species for destroying crops, a fox is burned.

Her sacred placesThere are several places mentioned by the authors that were sacred to Demeter. In Homeric hymn to Demeter it is said that Paros and Antron are sacred to the goddess, while both Ovid and Claudian are mentioning Henna, Sicily. Diodorus Siculus on the other hand recokns that the whole island of Sicily is sacred to Demeter. There was also an island in Ionian sea mentioned by Apollonius Rhodius but the author was unsure whether or not it was called Drepane. The island by the ancient name Drepane is now known as island Corfu which is located near Albanian border in Ionian Sea. There was also a river mentioned in Pausanias’ Descriptions of Greece that was precious to her. It was called Rheiti. Claudain, on the other hand, even mentiones a palace of Demeter which was supposedly built by the Cyclopes but the location remains a mystery. On top of all the places, the river and the supposed palace, there is also a giant oak tree mentioned, by Callimachus and Ovid, to be very dear to the goddess. It was cut down by disrespectful Erysichthon who was then punished by Demeter. She had summoned Famine who then breathed her pestilential poison through his mouth and throat and breast, and spread the curse of utmost hunger in his veins.

Other mythsWhile in search of Persephone, Demeter used a spell on her daughter’s maids and changed them into sirens so that they could help in her quest. Originally they were nymphs and daughters of river Acheolus and muse Melpomene. The goddess was also involved in a myth of Pelops who was killed by Tantalus, cut up, cooked and served to the gods at the great feast. The gods soon realised what happened and brought Pelops to life again. They assembled his body once again but he was missing an arm. It was Demeter who had previously, before the discovery, eaten it. Therefore, the goddess wanted to make up for it and solved a puzzle by fitting and enspelling an ivory substitute on his torso. Pelops was alive and complete again and gods satisfied with their just act. In another myth, Demeter showed anger when Triopas, a king of Thessalians, once tore down her temple. She brought infinte hunger upon him so that he could not be satisfied by any amount of food and later when he was already dying she sent a snake to finish the job. He was bitten and died and then placed among stars by the will of the goddess as reminder to others not to mess with her.

Gods – Greek Olympia – Poseidon, god of sea, floods and earthquakes

Poseidon, god of sea, floods and earthquakes

Poseidon (Earthshaker, Dark-haired one, Neptune) was Olympian god of sea, floods and earthquakes. In some cases, he is also referred to as a tamer of horses. He was known for his fast changing temperament and being easily offended. And because he was also dignified and competitive, it was very important not to offend him or argue his statements and acts. Those who angered him became the victims of his wrath. He was known for causing major catastrophic events, such as floods, earthquakes and sea storms, and even unleashed his sea monsters in order to get even. Poseidon was also very lustful and selfish when it came to women. He had numerous affairs with both goddesses and mortals, by either seducing them or tricking them by changing his form, not to mention abducting and violating them. However, Poseidon did have some positives and was always passionate in supporting his cause or the cause of his favourite characters, helping them in many different ways by giving them unique traits and special powers or granting them divine animals. He even changed gender of Caenis and Mestra on their own request.

Appearance in the works of art

Poseidon is often depicted as a grown man with longer curly hair and long beard, wearing a crown and holding a magical trident. On more than few occasions, he is depicted in his domain of the sea and in company of his wife Amphitrite. Sometimes, he is depicted riding horses or a chariot drawn by horses.

Becoming the Ruler of the Sea

He was a descendant of Cronus and Rhea. With his brothers he fought bravely against the Titans. During the war he received the magical Trident, a weapon of great power made by the Cyclopes as a token of gratitude for helping them to escape from Tartarus. With their new weapons and help from enemies of Cronus, they were able to defeat and imprison the titans. After the victory, when the division of cosmos had to be decided between three brothers, they drew lots and he got the realm of Sea under his control. He also became second in command to Zeus. However, there is an alternative story how he became the ruler of the sea. According to Hyginus, it was Cronus himself who casted him under the sea when he was born, out of fear of dethroning him. Clement affirms this by saying that it was his destiny to become a sea ruler.

Love affairs and his descendants

Divine and semi-divine lovers

The god of the Sea is credited with having numerous love affairs with both goddesses and mortal women but in his honor he only had one wife, a sea-goddess called Amphitrite. With her he had a son Triton, who is also closely related to the sea, and Rhode, a water nymph closely related to Helios and island of Rhodes. Poseidon also had his eye set for Alcyone, one of the Pleiads, and soon he had an intercourse with her. She later gave birth to two sons, Hyrieus and Hyperenor and a daughter Atheusa. Plutarch also mentions Anippê, a daugher of Nile, who gave birth to Burisis by Poseidon. According to Hyginus, he made love with Antiopa, a daughter of Aeolus (supposedly son of Hippotes), who gave birth to two sons Boeotus and Hellen, and Arethusa, a daughter of Nereus, who gave him another son Abas. There was also Amymone, a daughter of Danaus, a mythical king of Egypt, who once called Poseidon to aid her when she was cornered in the woods by a satyr. So he came and drove the creature away and because of this courageous act she laid with him and from this embrace Nauplius was born. He also pursued Demeter who transformed herself into a mare to escape his lust but Poseidon tricked her with transforming himself into a stallion and mated with her. Demter then gave birth to goddess Desponia and variously to Arion, a horse with the ability to speak human language. Poseidon even had an intercourse with Medusa in the temple of Athena. Athena later cursed Medusa by changing her into a monster. It is also said by some authors that she was impregnated and when her head was chopped off by Perseus, Pegasus and Chrysaor arose from her blood and therefore they are giving credits to Poseidon as the father. He also fathered Polyphemus with the sea-nymph called Thoosa and Euphemus with Europe. It is said by Hyginus that Euphemus had the ability to walk on water.

Mortal lovers

One day, he tricked a mortal woman named Tyro by transforming himself in Enipeus, the river-god of her desire. She then gave birth to twin-boysPelias and Neleus who were known to be famous greek heroes. Aethra, the princess of Troezen is also said to had an intercourse with the god in the shrine of Athena and later gave birth to Theseus. Another famous hero by the name Orion was born to Poseidon and Euryale, a daughter of Minos, and it is said that he had been granted the ability to walk on water by his father. There was also Hippothous or Hippothoon who was begat by Alope after she was embraced by Poseidon. But, because Alope was uncertain who the father of her child was, unfortunate events followed for both of them. She was imprisoned and put to death and the child was exposed to danger twice but each time a mare came and furnished him milk. It was then when Sheperds had realized that it must be the will of the gods to spare him and gave him name Hippothous. It is also said that Alope was then turned, by the god, into a spring near Eleusis. Similar thing happened to Melanippe, a daughter of Desmontes, who was, after being impregnated by Poseidon, blinded and tossed in prison by her father Desmontes and the two sons Aeolus and Boeotus, that she had given birth to, thrown to wild beasts. But they managed to survive and eventually, led by their father, came back to Desmontes, killed him and freed their mother from prison whose sight was restored by Poseidon himself who is also credited as the father of Bellerophon by Eurynome. a daughter of Nysus. Another interesting tale comes from Apollodorus where it is said that Poseidon had a lover by the name Canace and she later gave birth to five sons, Aloeus, Epopeus, Hopleus, Nireus and Triops. Aloeus later married Iphimedia, a daughter of his brother Triops, but she fell in love with Poseidon and the god apparently couldn’t resist missing an opportunity like this because by him she later gave birth to two sons, Ephialtes and Otus. They were known as the Aloads or Aloadae giants.

Wraths of Poseidon

During his time, many vengeful acts were recorded. Most known are from the Odyssey where he chased Odysseus for eight years for blinding his son Polymphemus, the one-eyed cyclops. He was causing deadly storms and earthquakes, trying to drown the hero and prevent him from ever reaching Ithaca. It is also said that he punished Phoeacians by turning their ship into stone because they welcomed and helped the hero. Poseidon also became furious when he helped Laomedon, a king of Troy, with building the walls in exchange for a wealthy ransom. When the walls were built, the king refused to pay the god and therefore Poseidon flooded the region and sent an enormous sea-monster to ravage the lands of Troy.

The Trojan Cetus, as it was called, terrorized the whole country over and over again before the Trojans finally, after consultation with the Oracle, agreed to sacrifice King’s daughter Hesione in order to satisfy Poseidon enough to recall the monster. However, Laomedon had another option which was to promise a reward for Heracles who was just passing by from one of his quests. Heracles agreed, defeated the Cetus, and saved Hesione. In a similar story, where Cassiopeia, a mother of Andromeda, boasted that her daughter is more beautiful than the Nereids, relatives and employes of Poseidon. When they heard of this Cassiopeia’s pride, they complained to Poseidon who then released a Cetus to terrorise the lands of Ethiopia. They were, like the Trojans, advised by the oracle to sacrifice the princess to the monster. Thereafter they had chained Andromeda to the rock and left her to be devoured by the monster. Then Perseus came to rescue, but unlike Heracles, he defeated the Cetus and saved Andromeda because of love at first sight. Another one who offended the god was Inachus who, according to Apollodorus, testified that the land of Argos belonged to Hera after the gods were involved in a dispute. Poseidon was outraged and in revenge dried up all remaining springs, leaving the land completely waterless and useless to Hera.

There had also been a contest for the patronage of Athens between Athena and Poseidon. In order to win city’s deviotion, they had to produce a useful gift for its population. Poseidon was first to act and struck his trident hard in the earth, creating a well with streaming water. However, the water turned out to be salty and not so useful for the people. Athena was next and created the olive tree, by planting an olive branch into the hole that she made with a spear. Delighted with olives, oil and useful wood, people of Athens chose Athena over Poseidon. This angered the god who then, in his vengeful act, flooded the city and lands nearby with salt water. There is, however, an alternative explanation provided by Ovid where it is said nothing about revenge but that Poseidon, instead of giving fresh water to locals, presented a horse to men but the result was the same as they had picked Athena over him because of the olive tree. Then there were also two kings who paid their price for offending the god. First was Minos, a king of Crete, who tricked Poseidon with sacrificing an ordinary bull to him instead of the one given to him by the god as promised. The Earthshaker then had his revenge as he made the promised bull savage and casted a spell on his wife Pasiphae to fall in love with it. As a result of such action, the Minotaur was born which was a punishment enough for Minos. The other one was Erechtheus, a king of Athens, whose army killed Poseidon’s son Eumolpus in the battle for Athens. The god then demanded that one of his daughters should be sacrificed to him but because the daughters of Erechtheus had an agreement with each other that if one dies, the rest would commit suicide, the king of Athens lost all of his daughters. In the end Poseidon also requested from Zeus to struck Eechtheus with a thunderbolt which ended the king’s life and bloodline.

Helping others

Not all accounts are about revenge though. Poseidon could also be very passionate and understanding to those who he favoured and therefore gave good words or interviened himself on their behalf. One of such accounts is the myth of Ares and Aphrodite when they were trapped in the bed of Hephaestus. After all the gods have been summoned to see this adultery and having a laugh at it, it was Poseidon who convinced Hephaestus to let Ares go, in spite of what had been done. This was not the only god he helped. It is said, by Hyginus, that he also protected Leto from vengeful Hera and took her to Ortygia which later became known as Delos after Posedion had transformed it, and he also granted a wish of Aphrodite and accepted her descendants into his realm of Sea. It is worth mentioning that he also accepted a nypmh Leucothea into a divine company in deep waters with open arms and consequently did a great deed for mankind because ever since she supposedly helps seafares who lose their way. The god also once saved Ajax from the sea after previously cracking his boat in half due to hero’s boastful claim that he taught Antichlous everything about horses which of course was not true. Poseidon gave him a lesson but because he favoured the hero he spared his life. Poseidon was also very generous with gifts as he gave his son Peleus two magnificent horses, Balius and Xanthus, and also granted chariots to Idas and Pelops. He also blessed his son Neleus with boundless strength and ability to change shape whenever in a battle and other son Percilymenus the ability to change shape at will. To his grandson Pterelaus he granted immortality by implanting golden hair on his head. There had also been two accounts of sex-change recorded, both on own volition. There was a woman by the name Caenis whom the god once saw walking on the beach and ravished her. He felt bad about it so he offered to grant her any wish desired and she wanted to become a man so that such atrocity would never happen to her again. Poseidon granted her wish and made her a man named Caeneus but also made a new man invulnerable to any blow of sword or spear. Second was one the god’s lovers, named Mestra, who was only temporary changed to a man in order to conceal her from her father and master Erysichthon. He was looking for her and eventually, because he couldn’t find her, gave up and left. Poseidon then turned her back into original form.

Trojan war

Poseidon sided with the Greeks and was helping them all along but on one occasion he is said to had worked against them. It is said by Homer and Quintus Smyrnaeus that the god was jealous because of the impressive wall the Greeks have built around their ships. He was worried that its fame would overshadow his work on Trojan walls and, because of it, helped Trojans destroy it which left consequences on the morale of Greek soldiers. Thereafter, Poseidon had to interviene again and it is said that he encouraged troops indirectly ,because of the rules Zeus had set for immortals not to engage in battle, and fused both Ajaxes with power through his staff when being disguised in the shape of an old seer named Calchas. He is also said to had protected Idomeneus at all costs and even helped him kill Alcathos.

Later in war the god of the Sea became angered because Trojans killed his grandson Amphimachus and his indirect involvement was not helping much as Trojans were taking advantage over them. It was then when he agreed to take part in Hera’s plot to decieve Zeus. After the king of the gods had been put to sleep, Poseidon engaged in the battlefield to lead the Greek army and it is said that he roared so loud as if it were nine thousand men, all to raise morale and finally put an end to Trojans. And it had an effect until Zeus woke up and realised he had been tricked. Immediately he gave orders for all the immortals to withdraw from the battle but Poseidon opposed for a while until he realised that it is best to listen to his brother. He, then, finally withdrew himself from the battlefield and returned to the sea realm. Later, he was summoned to the assembly with the rest of the immortals where Zeus gave them a choice to pick a side and fight for them if they wish to do so. Poseidon is said to had intended to fight Apollo if provoked but the gods came to an agreement and let men decide their battle. When Greeks had finally taken the upper hand in war and when they were attacking Troy, Poseidon is mentioned to had shaken the walls and foundations of the city and driven back posts of Dardan or Dardanian gates. It is also said that after the war was won, he gave Trojans favourable winds which enabled them to escape and prevented further death casualties. According to Homer, he also previously saved Aeneas from a certain death in a battle with Achilles.

 

Poseidon’s sacred places

 

Some of the places are being mentioned by the authors that Poseidon had a special bond to. One of such is Onchestus and it is said that he had a precinct there, in his sacred grove. According to Virgil, Delos is also said to be very dear to the god which he previously transformed. Another such island is the island of Calauria which was a part of mainland town of Troezen at the time but Plutarch says that whole Troezen was sacred to Poseidon and that he was a patron god of this land. Very interesting story comes from Pausanias where it is said that Delphi was once controlled by Poseidon and Calauria by Apollo who then offered this beautiful island to the god of the Sea in exchange for the Oracle. According to Homer, there was one other place sacred to the god, named Helice or Helike which was, as the evidence shows, unfortunately sunk by tsunami in the year 373BC.

Other mythsThe god was also involved in other myths such as the war of theGiants, the great flood and even the plot of the gods against Zeus. It is said by Apollodorus that Poseidon fought a giant Polybotes in Gigantomachy, where the god was forced to destroy part of the island to defeat the giant. It all happened on the island of Cos where Posedion broke off a piece of the island and hurled it at Polybotes. This piece was later known as the island Nisyrum, now Nisyros, and it situated between islands Tilos and Cos in Aegean sea. As mentioned earlier, he was also a part of Zeus‘ master plan to end humanity and it is said that he unleashed a great flood on the command of the King of the gods and later ceased the event by cracking earth open, enabling the water to sink in. This was not the only case where Poseidon helped his brother. It is said by Valerius Flaccus, in accordance to the battle between Zeus and Typhoeus (Typhon), that it was Poseidon who finished the giant by pulling him in the water and sending him to Tartarus. He also helped Zeus in Titanomachy as already said early in this article but there is more to the story. In Hesiod’s Theogony it is said that after the war had ended and when the Titans had been sent to Tartarus, Poseidon built a gate of bronze and fixed it upon the entrance of this unforgivable pit so that none of the prisoners would ever be able to escape. Poseidon also participated in Hera’s plot to overthrow Zeus where they had not further plan after tying him down. Of course the plan was doomed from the beginning and after Zeus was freed, he harshly punished his wife to make an example for others and afterwards even Poseidon wouldn’t dare to complain to his brother.

Goddesses and Gods – Greek Olympians – Goddess Artemis and God Aristaeus

Greek Olympian – Artemis – Goddess of Hunting

ARTEMIS FACTS
Name(s): Artemis, Aeginaea, Aetole, Agrotera, Kourotrophos, Locheia, Cynthia, Amarynthia, Phoebe, Alphaea, Alpheaea, Alpheiusa
Rules over: the Hunt, Forests and Hills, the Moon, Archery
Gender: Female
Symbols: Bow, Arrows, Stags, Hunting dog and moon
Sacred animals: Deer
Parents: Zeus and Leto
Siblings: Ares, Athena, Apollo, Aphrodite, Dionysus, Hebe, Hermes, Heracles, Helen of Troy, Hephaestus, Perseus, Minos, the Muses, the Graces
Roman name: Diana

Greek mythology is filled with respected gods and goddesses that continue to inspire. Artemis is known as the goddess of the hunt and is one of the most respected of all the ancient Greek deities. It is thought that her name, and even the goddess herself, may even be pre-Greek. She was the daughter of ZEUS, king of the gods, and the TITANESS LETO and she has a twin brother, the god APOLLO.

Not only was Artemis the goddess of the hunt, she was also known as the goddess of wild animals, wilderness, childbirth and virginity. Also, she was protector of young children and was know to bring and relieve disease in women. In literature and art she was depicted as a huntress carrying a bow and arrow. She was the goddess of many things, but most remember her as the most recognizable of the hunting deities.

Artemis was a virgin and drew the attention and interest of many gods and men. However, it was only her hunting companion, Orion, that won her heart. It is believed that Orion was accidentally killed either by Artemis herself or by GAIA, the primordial goddess of the earth.

In one version of the stories of ADONIS – who was a late addition to Greek mythology during the Hellenistic period – Artemis sent a wild boar to kill Adonis after he continued to boast that he was a far greater hunter than her.

The Origins of Artemis

Artemis’s origin story is a tumultuous one. She is the DAUGHTER OF ZEUS and Leto. Zeus is the well-known King of gods and the leader of MOUNT OLYMPUS. Despite the many stories of his greatness, Zeus’ weakness was infidelity to his wife, Hera.

Zeus impregnated a Titan called Leto. Hera became angry upon learning of Zeus’ unfaithfulness. In retaliation, she forbade Leto from giving birth on land. Eventually, she found solace on the floating island of Delos. There, she gave birth to Artemis and Apollo.

According to the Homeric Hymn to Artemis, the twins were born on Ortygia. Either way, most of the accounts say that Artemis came first. As a result, she was a fierce protector and nurturer of Apollo.

Not much is known about Artemis’ childhood. Some scholars say that she spent her time participating in archery, perhaps leading to her excellence in hunting.

Artemis Depictions

Artemis was the subject of many works of art throughout Ancient Greece and beyond. Usually, she was shown as a young and beautiful woman carrying a bow and arrow. Typically, she wore a knee-length tunic and was accompanied by various animals.

She was shown alongside various other SYMBOLS when talked about as the goddess of the moon or fertility. For example, she often wore a crescent moon crown or stood by women and nymphs.

Greek Olympian – Aristaeus God of Useful Arts, Countryside and Pastoral Places

ARISTAEUS FACTS
Name(s): Aristaeus
Rules over: Animal Husbandry, Bee-Keeping, Fruit Trees, Cheesemaking, Olive-Growing
Title: Minor Patron God of Animal Husbandry, God of Useful Arts
Gender: Male
Symbols: —
Sacred animals: Bees, Sheep
Items: Vine, Olives
Parents: Apollo and Cyrene
Consort: Autonoe
Other significant others: Chiron and the Muses that taught Aristaeus
Children: Actaeon and Macris, Charmos, Kallikarpos
Roman name: Mellona

In Greek mythology, Aristaeus was the god useful arts, such as bee-keeping and cheese-making, olive-growing, herding, and hunting. He was a rustic god, a god of the countryside and pastoral places.

Aristaeus was a minor god in Athens but a prominent god in Boetia, a farming region in central Greece, where he was known as “the pastoral Apollo.” Aristaeus is often pictured on Boetian pottery as a young man with wings.

Aristaeus also appears prominently in the mythology of Macedonia, Arcadia, Sicily, Sardinia, Thessaly, and Ceos. Later, stories about his travel emerged in order to account for his prominence in all these different regions.

Over time, Aristaeus became a popular Greek name, given to many famous public figures in ancient Greek politics and society.

 

Aristaeus’s Birth and Training

Aristaeus was the son of APOLLO and Cyrene. Apollo seduced Cyrene by promising she would be the founding mother of a great city raised in her name if she would go to Libya with him. After Aristaeus was born, he was taken by HERMES and raised on nectar and ambrosia. The Earth GODDESS GAIA then made him immortal.

Various GODS AND GODDESSES taught Aristaeus the rustic arts. Apollo taught him the art of healing with herbs. The goddess DEMETER taught him how to hunt and how to skin the animals he caught and tan leather. The god DIONYSUS taught him to make beer and wine. The great Earth mother Demeter taught him the arts of herding and agriculture.

From the Myrtle-Nymphs Aristaeous learning to make olive oil, keep bees for honey, and to make butter and cheese.

When Aristaeus became a man he sailed to Boetia and was schooled in deeper mysteries by the Centaur CHIRON. He married Autonoe, a daughter of Cadmus, founder of THEBES. They had a son named Acteon, who was also trained in hunting and other mysteries by the cave-dwelling Chiron.

 

Aristaeus, Ceos, and the Dog-Star Sirius

According to one myth, the Delphic Oracle advised Aristaeus to visit Ceos, where he would be greatly honored by the local people. When he arrived he found them falling ill due to the early morning rising of Sirius, the Dog-Star. Aristaeus put together a healing ritual that involved a sacrifice to Sirius at its first appearance, thereby cooling the weather and healing the sick populace.

Aristaeus also found that Ceos was overrun by murderers. He found them and had them executed, making Ceos safe once again.

Goddesses – Cailleach or Hag Celtic Goddess of Winter

Cailleach or Hag Celtic Goddess of Winter from irelandsloreandtales.com

In Gaelic mythology ‘Cailleach is’ Irish for “hag”. A divine hag, a creator deity and weather deity, and an ancestor deity. In Irish lore, she goes under many names, including Digde, Milucra, Birog, Buach, etc. The word itself is found as a component in many Terms, such as cailleach-dhubh (“nun”); cailleach-oidhche (“owl”); cailleach feasa (“wise woman, fortune-teller”); and cailleach phiseogach (“sorceress, charm-worker”).

The Cailleach displays several traits that would be typical of winter, herding deer, she fights spring, and her staff freezes the ground. Alongside and in partnership with the goddess Brighde, the Cailleach is seen as a seasonal deity or spirit, ruling the winter months between Samhain (1 November or the first day of winter) and Bealtainn (1 May or the first day of summer), while Brìghde rules the summer months between Bealltainn and Samhainn. It is said that the Cailleach turns to stone on Bealltainn and takes human form again on Samhainn, just in time to rule over the winter months.

Depending on local climate, the transfer of power between the winter goddess and the summer goddess is celebrated any time between Là Fhèill Brìghde (1 February) at the earliest, Latha na Cailliche (25 March), or Bealltainn (1 May) at the latest, and the local festivals marking the arrival of the first signs of spring may be named after either the Cailleach or Brìghde.  Là Fhèill Brìghde is also said to be the day when the Cailleach gathers her firewood for the rest of the winter. Legend has it that if she intends to make the winter last a good while longer, she will make sure that the weather on 1 February is bright and sunny so she can gather plenty of firewood to keep herself warm in the coming months. As a result, people are generally relieved if Là Fhèill Brìghde is a day of foul weather, as it means the Cailleach is asleep, will soon run out of firewood, and therefore winter is almost over.

Traditionally, in Ireland, the first farmer to finish the grain harvest made a ‘Corn Dolly’, representing the Cailleach, from the last sheaf of the crop. The figure would then be tossed into the field of a neighbour who had not yet finished bringing in their grain. The last farmer to finish had the responsibility to take in and care for the corn dolly for the next year, with the implication that they would have to feed and house the hag all winter, so the competition was fierce to avoid having to take in the Old Woman.

There are some who believe the Old Irish poem, ‘The Lament of the Old Woman of Beara’ speaks of Cailleach. It was said that she had fifty foster-children in Beare. She was said to have had seven periods of youth one after another so that every man who had lived with her came to die of old age, and her grandsons and great-grandsons were tribes and races.

Gods – Pan Greek God of Nature

Pan – Greek God of Nature

The culture of Ancient Greece involved a complex spiritual world of major and minor gods that oversaw human events and engaged in dramas of their own. One of these, called Pan, ruled over nature and pasturelands. He is frequently depicted in literature and artworks. Although he is not one of the major gods of Ancient Greece, he is one of most often referenced figures in Greek mythology.

PAN FACTS
Name(s): Pan
Rules over: Nature, The Wild, Shepherds, Flocks, Goats, Mountain Wilds. Often associated with sexuality
Title: God Of The Wild
Gender: Male. Also a satyr (half man, half-goat)
Symbols: Pan Flute
Sacred animals: Goat
Items: Corsican Pine, Water-Reed
Parents: Hermes and Penelope (some accounts vary)
Consort: Syrinx, Echo, Pitys
Other significant others: —
Children: The 12 Panes (mountain spirits), various others including Iynx, Silenos and Krotos
Roman name: Faunus

Pan the God of the Wild

Pan is considered to be one of the oldest of GREEK GODS. He is associated with nature, wooded areas and pasturelands, from which his name is derived. The worship of Pan began in rustic areas far from the populated city centers. Therefore, he did not have large temples built to worship him. Rather, worship of Pan centered in nature, often in caves or grottos. He ruled over shepherds, hunters and rustic music. He was the patron god of Arcadia. Pan was often in the company of the wood nymphs and other deities of the forest.

Pan’s Appearance

Perhaps because of his association with nature and animals, Pan did not have the appearance of a normal man. The bottom half of his body was like a goat, with the top half of his body being like other men. However, he is often depicted with horns on his head, and his face is usually unattractive.

Pan’s Lineage

The parentage of Pan is uncertain. Some accounts say he is the son of HERMES and Dryope. Others say he is the son of  ZEUS or the son of Penelope, wife of Odysseus. The story of his birth says that his mother was so distressed by his unusual appearance that she ran away, but he was taken to Mount Olympus where he became the favorite of the gods.

Pan’s Powers

Like the other GODS OF OLYMPUS, Pan possessed enormous strength. He could also run for long periods of time and was impervious to injury. It was believed he could transform objects into different forms and was able to teleport himself from Earth to Mount Olympus and back. He is depicted as very shrewd with a wonderful sense of humor.

In Ancient Roman mythology, a SIMILAR GOD is called Faunus.

Pan and Music

The MYTHOLOGICAL STORIES involving Pan usually involve his romantic interest in a lovely goddess of the woods who spurns his advances and gets turned into an inanimate object to escape him or who otherwise flees from his ugly appearance. One story concerns Syrinx, a beautiful wood nymph. She flees from Pan’s attentions, and her follow GODDESSES turn her into a river reed in order to hide her from him. As the winds blow through the reeds, they make a gentle musical sound. Because he does not know which reed Syrinx is, he cuts several from reeds from the group and set them in a line to make the musical instrument, the pan flute. Pan’s image is often depicted with this instrument.

Pan Gave Humans the Word “Panic”

One story involving Pan is the tale of war, in which Pan helps his friend survive a vicious struggle by letting out an immense cry that frightened the enemy and caused him to run away. From this story, we get the word “panic,” the sudden, uncontrollable fear that leads people into irrational behavior.

Pan in the Modern World

Over the ages, Pan has been a symbol of the force of nature. In the 1800s, interest in this mythological figure revived, and communities organized festivals in which Pan was the central figure. Mythical stories of his antics abound, and he continues to be a figure representing the ancient mystery of the forest, hunting activities and wildlife.

Like the OTHER GODS of Ancient Greece, Pan embodies many of the qualities of the world over which he ruled. He is depicted as energetic, sometimes frightening, with the wild, unbridled creative force of nature that makes him an interesting, and often entertaining, character.

Gods – Overview The Olympian Gods and Goddesses

There will be a more detailed post for each god and goddess in the upcoming weeks.

The Olympian Gods and Goddesses, Main Greek Gods and Goddesses

The Olympian gods or Olympians are younger gods who got the name after their mythical place Mount Olympus. They had gained rank as the rulers of the world after dethroning the elder gods, known also as the Titans, in a ten-year war called Titanomachy. The Olympians, as they called themselves, were the main gods of Ancient Greece and were representing civilization of the world.

The first generation Olympians were descendants of a titan couple Cronus and Rhea. Together they gave birth to six children, three sons and three daughters. The sons were Poseidon, Hades, Zeus and daughters Hera, Hestia and Demeter. Zeus, Poseidon, Hera and Demeter are always considered as Olympian gods while Hestia and Hades are only included at some point of their existence. Hades was supposed to live on Mount Olympus and had every honour and right to but was given the realm of death under his control, when the three brothers had to split the cosmos after the victory over titans. And Hestia lived there just for a short period. After being granted a place on Mount Olympus by Zeus she eventually, because of her modesty, gave away her place to keep peace among gods because there were only twelve places on Mount Olympus, and the desire for these was huge among gods. The second generation Olympians were Athena, Ares, Hermes, Dionysus, Apollo, Artemis and Hephaestus. Aphrodite is also sometimes considered as the second generation goddess but is in general referred to be from the titans generation. Anyway, all of these gods are referred as Olympian gods and together they presided over every aspect of human life.

First generation of Olympian gods

Demeterdemeter

Goddess of harvest and fertility

Hadeshades

God of death and the dead

Herahera

Goddess of marriage and childbirth

Hestiahestia

Goddess of the hearth and domestic affairs

Poseidonposeidon

God of sea, floods and earthquakes

Zeuszeus

God of the sky and weather

Second generation of Olympian gods

Apolloapollo

God of light and sun

Aresares

God of war, violence and destruction

Artemisartemis

Goddess of hunting and wilderness

Athenaathena

Goddess of wisdom, strategy, warfare and skill

Dionysusdionysus

God of wine, festivals and pleasure

Hephaestushephaestus

God of craftsmanship. blacksmiths and stonemasonry

Hermeshermes

God of travel, trade, diplomacy, persuasion, writings and athletics

Aphroditeaphrodite

Goddess of love, beauty, pleasure
There are also Asclepius(son of Apollo and Coronis), Eros(son of Ares and Aphrodite or primeval deity), Hebe(daughter of Zeus and Hera), Heracles(son of Zeus and Alcmene) and Persephone(daughter of Zeus and Demeter) who are sometimes referred to be among Olympians.

Goddesses – Germanic or Celtic Goddess Nehalennia, Goddess Lost to Time

(SIDE NOTE from Lady Carla Beltane: We now think of all Celtic Gods and Goddesses as coming from the British Isles when in fact they originally came from all across Europe and some even say the Near East. So, if you think I have lost it by including deities from other cultures besides Welsh and Irish Celtic keep in mind I am just enlarging our understanding of ancient Celts who history has given many names to.)

Germanic or Celtic Goddess Nehalennia

Beginning sometime near the second century BC, the Goddess Nehalennia was honored where the Rhine river met the North Sea. Votive inscriptions and numerous altars were dedicated to Her, and temples built in Her honor. Sometime after the third century CE, Her temple was covered by the ocean, where it rested undisturbed for more than a thousand years.

In 1645, a storm on the coast of Zeeland eroded away the land and unearthed Her temple once again. Since then, the altars, inscriptions, and offerings to Her have been studied carefully, archaeologists attempting to rediscover Her secrets. Not only that, but She has managed to recapture the imagination of the local populace. A new temple to Her was built in the town of Colijnsplaat in 2005.

Nehalennia

What’s in a name? Often, there’s some information about the attributes of a deity to be found in Their name. From Nehalennia, we know that She is likely either a Germanic or Celtic Goddess. That’s where the agreement of scholars ends. Rudolph Simek in his Dictionary of Northern Mythology gives a possible etymology as relating to the Latin verb ‘necare’ which means ‘to kill’.

Kauffmann believes it relates to *neu, a word for ship. This relates to many of the inscriptions found dedicated to Her, which tend to be merchants thanking Her or petitioning Her for safe passage across the sea. There are also frequently boats depicted on Her altars. There is no clear translation or etymology for Nehalennia, however.

Iconography

On the votive inscriptions that have been unearthed, there is a great deal of symbolism associated with Nehalennia. The most popular seems to be fruits and verdant growing things. Baskets of apples frequently appear next to Her or in Her hands, and fruit trees and growing vines cover the sides of many of the votive altars. This fits with Her as a Goddess of merchants: peace and prosperity are ideal when your occupation is buying and selling goods.

Interestingly, there are a few other symbols frequently associated with Her. One of these is a dog, a greyhound-like animal. It is frequently depicted sitting at Her feet, looking up at the Goddess. Rudolph Simek connects this iconography with a goddess of the dead. Hilda Ellis Davidson in her Roles of the Northern Goddess argues that the dog is often depicted alongside mother Goddesses, particularly in the Roman period in Celtic areas. I personally believe this interpretation makes more sense with the rest of Her iconography, but there is an interesting connection there.

Nehalennia is sometimes depicted with Her foot on the bow of a ship. This makes sense with the inscriptions, She is clearly seen as having some authority over whether or not ships make it safely across the North Sea. The sea and specifically sea-trade is associated with prosperity in the same way Njord is associated with both prosperity and the sea.

Perhaps most interestingly, She is also sometimes depicted with loaves of bread. Not just any loaf of bread, however. Davidson identifies them as duivekater, a type of sweet bread that is made in the shape of a bone to approximate an animal sacrifice to a deity. It seems Nehalennia was a fan of this type of offering; raising again the question of Her connection with death.

Vanic Connections

As someone who honors primarily Vanic deities, I see many connections here. The association with ships and the sea is reminiscent of both Njord and Frey. Her additional links to prosperity bring Them both to mind as well. Nehalennia’s possible link to death through Her name and the hounds that accompany Her reminds me of both Freya and Nerthus. Freya, as chooser of the slain and Vanadis, and Nerthus, to whom slaves were offered by drowning, both have strong death connections.

Obviously, the only attested Vanir are Njord, Freya, and Frey. But there are interesting connections to other deities. If the distinction is important to you, it’s worth investigating Nehalennia.

Modern Day Worship

Beginning sometime near the second century BC, the Goddess Nehalennia was honored where the Rhine river met the North Sea. Votive inscriptions and numerous altars were dedicated to Her, and temples built in Her honor. Sometime after the third century CE, Her temple was covered by the ocean, where it rested undisturbed for more than a thousand years.

In 1645, a storm on the coast of Zeeland eroded away the land and unearthed Her temple once again. Since then, the altars, inscriptions, and offerings to Her have been studied carefully, archaeologists attempting to rediscover Her secrets. Not only that, but She has managed to recapture the imagination of the local populace. A new temple to Her was built in the town of Colijnsplaat in 2005.

There is also a temple to Her in Colijnsplaat in the Netherlands. The website is in Dutch, but there are many beautiful pictures of the reconstructed temple. If you’re ever in the area, it’d be a fantastic pilgrimage site for any who honor Nehalennia.

I have been honoring Her casually for a few years now. I’ve found that She appreciates gifts of fruits and other little sweet things. She was especially pleased the day I baked the duivekater and offered Her a slice. For me, She is strongly associated with the sea, especially the North Sea. I was lucky enough to visit there a long time ago, and when She speaks to me, it is always with the feel of that place. I find it interesting that it was an ocean storm that uncovered Her temple – perhaps She wanted the world to see Her once again.

About the Author MOLLY KHAN

Molly Khan is a Heathen and mother of five writing from the beautiful midwest prairie, primarily focused on regional cultus and the honor of gods of the natural world. A creator of many divination sets, she formerly acted as the elected Scribe for Prairie Shadow Grove, ADF. She has been Pagan for more than fifteen years, and a self-identifying Heathen for six. Check out her Etsy store SticksandStonesRunes to find runes and other ritual tools, and support inclusive Heathen writing! You can read more about the author here.

Gods – Greek 2nd Generation Titans – Epimetheus and Prometheus

2nd Generation Greek Titan – Epimetheus

2nd Generation Greek Titan – Prometheus

Epimetheus and Prometheus: Representatives of Mankind

After the Titanomachy, Zeus wanted to populate the Earth with ANIMALS and humans. He entrusted that job with the brothers Epimetheus and Prometheus.

The humans and animals were crafted from clay. Zeus gave the brothers attributes crafted by other deities. Their job was to allocate them to the clay figures before they came to life, giving them the strengths and skills to survive on Earth.

Epimetheus took on the role of distributing attributes. He enjoyed the job, and Prometheus would check on his brother’s work before releasing the creatures into the Earth.

All went well at first. Epimetheus made sure that every creature was equipped with a skill. Some would be natural predators, while others gained the ability to dig or fly. Everything was going according to plan. That is, however, until Epimetheus got to humans.

According to poets like Hesiod and Plato, what happens next is why Epimetheus got his name. The name translates to “afterthought” or “hindsight,” representing Epimetheus’ way of thinking. He did not plan, simply acting on impulse without giving his action any ounce of thought.

When he finally got to humans, he realized that there were no more attributes left to give. He pleaded with Zeus for more, but the King of gods would not create additional attributes to provide. He was willing to unleash humans into the world unprotected. However, Epimetheus’ brother decided to take action.

Epimetheus

The tale of Epimetheus is one that poets often use to describe the unfavorable habits of humans. His myth involves the creation of man and the disastrous ramifications of acting before thinking. Epimetheus isn’t as well-known as other figures in GREEK MYTHOLOGY, but his story is certainly memorable.

The Origins of Epimetheus

Epimetheus is a second-generation god. He was born from IAPETUS and Clymene. Iapetus is the son of URANUS and GAIA, two primordial beings responsible for starting the succession myth. Clymene was an OCEANID nymph born to Titans OCEANUS and TETHYS.

Epimetheus had three brothers. All of them play important roles in Greek mythology. There was Atlas, who is most famous for the punishment of holding up the heavens put onto him by ZEUS. His second brother was MENOETIUS, who was banished to TARTARUS for his role in the Divine war.

Prometheus was his third brother. PROMETHEUS and Epimetheus share a strong connection due to the part they played in the creation of man. But before that happened, there was the Titanomachy.

THE TITANOMACHY was a vicious ten-year war between the TITANS and the OLYMPIANS. The Titan CRONUS swallowed all of his children in fear of one of them overtaking his spot on the Divine throne. Eventually, his wife RHEA snuck one child away before Cronus could swallow it. That child grew up to be Zeus.

He challenged his father, forcing him to disgorge his siblings. The newly freed children, the Twelve Olympians, waged war against the Titans for revenge. It was a destructive war that lasted an entire decade. Most Titans participated. That included Epimetheus’ brothers ATLAS and Menoetius.

However, Epimetheus and Prometheus did not participate in the Titanomachy. They remained neutral, which would prove to be a smart move that saved them in the end.

The Olympians won the war with help from the three CYCLOPES and the HECATONCHIRES. As the battle concluded, Zeus took the mantle on MOUNT OLYMPUS. He became the King of the gods and swiftly punished the Titans. Once great gods like HYPERION and Cronus were doomed to Tartarus. Epimetheus’ brother, Menoetius, was struck by one of Zeus’ lightning rods during battle. He was subsequently imprisoned before going to Tartarus.

Meanwhile, Epimetheus’ other brother, Atlas, was famously doomed to hold up the heavens for all of eternity!

But Epimetheus and Prometheus? Zeus did not punish them. They were neutral, so he entrusted them with an important task. This is where Epimetheus’ myth truly gets started.

Epimetheus is a second-generation god. He was born from IAPETUS and Clymene. Iapetus is the son of URANUS and GAIA, two primordial beings responsible for starting the succession myth. Clymene was an OCEANID nymph born to Titans OCEANUS and TETHYS.

Epimetheus had three brothers. All of them play important roles in Greek mythology. There was Atlas, who is most famous for the punishment of holding up the heavens put onto him by ZEUS. His second brother was MENOETIUS, who was banished to TARTARUS for his role in the Divine war.

Prometheus was his third brother. PROMETHEUS and Epimetheus share a strong connection due to the part they played in the creation of man. But before that happened, there was the Titanomachy.

THE TITANOMACHY was a vicious ten-year war between the TITANS and the OLYMPIANS. The Titan CRONUS swallowed all of his children in fear of one of them overtaking his spot on the Divine throne. Eventually, his wife RHEA snuck one child away before Cronus could swallow it. That child grew up to be Zeus.

He challenged his father, forcing him to disgorge his siblings. The newly freed children, the Twelve Olympians, waged war against the Titans for revenge. It was a destructive war that lasted an entire decade. Most Titans participated. That included Epimetheus’ brothers ATLAS and Menoetius.

However, Epimetheus and Prometheus did not participate in the Titanomachy. They remained neutral, which would prove to be a smart move that saved them in the end.

The Olympians won the war with help from the three CYCLOPES and the HECATONCHIRES. As the battle concluded, Zeus took the mantle on MOUNT OLYMPUS. He became the King of the gods and swiftly punished the Titans. Once great gods like HYPERION and Cronus were doomed to Tartarus. Epimetheus’ brother, Menoetius, was struck by one of Zeus’ lightning rods during battle. He was subsequently imprisoned before going to Tartarus.

Meanwhile, Epimetheus’ other brother, Atlas, was famously doomed to hold up the heavens for all of eternity!

But Epimetheus and Prometheus? Zeus did not punish them. They were neutral, so he entrusted them with an important task. This is where Epimetheus’ myth truly gets started.

Prometheus

Prometheus was the famous TITAN GOD of fire. His name is thought to mean “forethought’. He is credited with molding mankind out of mud and clay. Unfortunately, his desire to improve the lives of his creations, resulted in constant conflict with Zeus.

Son of the OCEANID Clymene and the Titan IAPETUS, he along with his brother EPIMETHEUS fought for ZEUS and the rest of the OLYMPIANS in the TITANOMACHY. However, after aiding Zeus and helping him win the war, he began to quarrel with him about his unfair treatment of humanity.

Often regarded as a trickster, Prometheus first tested Zeus by tricking the gods during a sacrificial feast. He then stole fire from the gods up in heaven and gave it to mankind, resulting in years of torture.

As punishment for his rebelliousness, Zeus chained him to a cliff and had an eagle feast upon his regenerating liver day in and day out. He also created the first woman, Pandora, to bring misfortune and calamity to the house of man.

Generations later, Zeus’ son, the great hero HERACLES, came to the rescue by shooting the eagle and freeing Prometheus. While he made peace with Zeus afterwards, he would continue to be held in high regard as a spreader of knowledge and romanticized as a hero for his acts.

Prometheus’ Family

Hesiod’s THEOGONY states Prometheus was the son of the Titan Iapetus, and his mother was the Oceanid Clymene. Most scholars agree, but there have been other references to him being the son of Iapetos and Asia, the Titan Eurymedon and HERA, or of URANUS and Clymene.

As far as the rest of his family goes, Prometheus was the brother of fellow Titans MENOETIUS, ATLAS, and Epimetheus. The duo of Prometheus (Forethought) and Epimetheus (Afterthought) have been referenced countless times throughout Greek mythology.

Prometheus had three children: Deucalion, Hellen, and Aidos. Deucalion was eerily similar to Noah in the Christian Bible. Like Noah, he survived a great flood responsible for wiping out the rest of humanity, and he was able to do so by floating in a massive chest for nine days and nine nights. He and his wife PYRRHA were the only survivors, and they are credited with repopulating the human race.

Prometheus and the Titanomachy

Prior to the creation of humanity, there was a great battle between the Greek gods and a race of giants known as the Titans. The Titans not killed in the battle were driven to TARTARUS to spend their days in eternal hell.

Despite being a Titan himself, Prometheus, whose name translates to foresight, convinced his brother Epimetheus to fight alongside him with the Olympian gods led by Zeus. In fact, Prometheus was one of the battle’s ringleaders, helping Zeus defeat the Titans and take control of the heavens in a struggle said to have lasted over a decade.

He switched sides in support of the victorious Olympians simply because the Titans refused to follow his advice to apply trickery and deception in the battle. His two other brothers, ATLAS and Menoetius, remained loyal and fought with their fellow Titans against Prometheus, Epimetheus, and the Olympians. However, they and the rest of the Titans were defeated, proving it’s wise to follow someone with the name “forethought.”

Prometheus and the Creation of Man

As thanks for fighting alongside the Olympians in the Titanomachy and helping them win the decade long battle, Zeus entrusted the Titan brothers with the responsibility of creating every living thing, including man.

Epimetheus was tasked with blessing creatures with gifts of the gods. He gave flight to some creatures and the ability to race through grass or move through water to others. He gave the beasts sharp claws, soft fur, and glittering scales.

Meanwhile, Prometheus was busy shaping mud to make the first humans. They were formed to reflect the image of the gods. According to some authors, Athena brought the clay figures formed by Prometheus to life.

Despite looking like them, Zeus ordered the humans to remain mortal. They were also ordered to worship the gods of MOUNT OLYMPUS from Earth below.

Why? Well, because Zeus saw the humans as subservient creatures, so he made them dependent on the Olympians for protection from the elements and monstrous creatures like the Hydra, SPHINX, or NEMEAN LION.

However, Prometheus wanted to give his creations a greater purpose and completely opposed Zeus’ decree. So, when asked by Zeus how sacrifices were to be made, the cunning Prometheus devised a trick to give humans a bit more power.

Prometheus’ Crimes

Prometheus is most known as being a punished benefactor to humans. He got that reputation because he did not want humans to go into the world without any skills to help them survive. With Zeus’ refusal to create more attributes, Prometheus decided to steal some.

He chose civilized arts and fire and the gifted skills for humans. He stole the civilized art from ATHENA and fire from Hephaestus. Prometheus quickly gave the attributes and let man go onto Earth. He was successful, but his actions enraged Zeus.

He was punished for essentially covering the mistake of his brother. Prometheus was famously taken to the Caucasus Mountains. There, he was chained up as a crow fed on his regenerating liver for eternity. But before he was whisked away for punishment, he warned his brother not to accept any gifts from Zeus or the Olympians.

Once again, Epimetheus failed to have any forethought.

Goddesses – Greek 2nd Generation Titan Eos Goddess of Dawn

2nd Generation Greek Titan – Eos

Eos (Aurora, Dawn) was a goddess of dawn, bringer of the early light when came from the ocean’s stream at the far east to overcome the night. She was often described as being hope and rejuvenation to all living mortal beings as they woke up in the morning, filled with energy and ready to resume their work and journey and life in general. Eos is usually described as a daughter of Hyperion and Theia, but on some occasions she is also noted as a daughter of Nyx or a daughter of Pallas. She is said to have been bringing light to heavens and earth and was also used to describe all the charms of dawn, for the movement of the stars and orientation or navigation, and on the other hand she was personalised to a goddess whenever it suited the authors. In the Odyssey, it is said that her home island was Aeaea, the dancing grounds of Eos.

Love affairs and her descendants

Divine lovers

The Goddess of dawn is credited to be a mother of the winds and planets. She had consorted with her cousin Astraeus and gave birth to the winds Zephyrus, Boreas, Notus and sometimes, variously, also to Favonius. Eos also gave birth to planets, known as Astra. According to Hesiod, first of these planets was Erigenia and shortly after Eosphorus. She was also a mother of planet Venus, also called Lucifer or Hesperus. But that was not all, Eos is also mentioned to be a mother of Astraea, a virgin goddess of justice, who was strongly equated with Dike, one of the Horae, daughters of Themis. It seemed that the goddess had enough of descendants already so she once bedded Ares out of pleasure, no plan to get pregnant. This, however, was not easily overseen by Aphrodite, lover of Ares, who consequently put a spell on Eos to be perpetually in love.

 

Mortal lovers

Because of the spell of Aphrodite, Eos became fond of mortal men. She fell in love with Tithonus, a prince of Troy, and gave birth to Memnon, who became a king of Ethiopians and later one of the heroes of Trojan war when he came to aid the Trojans, and variously lord Emathion, a brother of Memnon. The goddess of Dawn also wanted for Tithonus to become like her, immortal, so therefore she went to Zeus with a plea. The king of the gods granted her wish and they lived happily for a while, until the age has come to him. Eos forgot to ask for his eternal youth as well and once his hair has become grey, she rather kept away from his bed even though she still cherished and nourished him with heavenly food and ambrosia, and gave him rich clothing. But when the full age has come to him, Tithonus shriveled and babbled for eternity which was not in the original plan by the goddess who also had a thing for a mortal man by the name of Cephalus. The myth can be found in Hyginus’ Fabulae where Eos, already a wife of Tithonus, fell in love with Cephalus while he was hunting in the mountains in early morning. Cephalus already had a wife who he loved and was unwilling to give in to the plea of Eos, to embrace her and make love to her.

He told her that he promised his wife never to cheat on her. Therefore, Eos tricked him by changing his form and giving him gifts for Procis, his wife. When he came to her, Procis was unable to recognise her husband Cephalus. But this stranger seemed kind to her, reminded her of her husband and after giving her gifts, she made love to him. Then Eos changed back his form and Procis knew she was tricked by the goddess. To Cephalus soon became clear what just happened and for the first time realised that the promise, he and his wife made to each other, was not so strong as he liked to believe. Procis ashamed, fled to the island of Crete where Artemis used to hunt. She told the goddess what happened and Artemis decided to help her. She gave her a javelin that could not miss its target and a dog that no prey could escape. She also changed her appearance and encouraged her to challenge her husband Cephalus in a hunt. When Cephalus, a hunting enthusiast, saw the incredible javelin and the dog in action, he asked her to sell both to him, not knowing he was talking to his wife. When they finally agreed to exchange, she took off the tunic and showed him who she really was. Cephalus then accepted his wife back and it was all fine for a while. However, this angered Eos who still wanted Cephalus for herself. Therefore, she, again, tricked Cephalus one day when he was hunting. She also made sure that Procis was in the woods at the time. The goddess then hid herself in a bush in the vicinity of Procis and made noise. Cephalus thought it was an animal and threw the javelin and killed his wife instead. Eos then carried him off and, according to Hesiod, bore him a son Phaethon. However, according to Apollodorus, she bore him Tithonus which would negate the story above from Hyginus’ Fables. Anyway, the goddess also had an affair with a demi-god Orion whom she carried off to Delos, after falling in love with him. There was also a mortal youth of great beauty, called Calamos. He lived in earlier times and in beauty surpassed all of her other lovers.

Trojan war

Eos was involved in a Trojan war, supporting the Trojans, mostly because of her son Memnon, who was called to aid by the Trojans, and her lover Tithonus, a father of Memnon and a prince of Troy. She is said to had been bringing morale to the Trojans with her early morning beams of light. She is also noted to had intervened in a battle when two experienced Greek hunters wanted to kill Memnon. Phereus and Thrasymedes decided to end the life of Memnon and, while on a battlefield, they hurled long spears at him with extreme power and precision. He would have been killed to death by the spears but, with the intervention of Eos who misguided the spears, they hit far from the flesh of Memnon. The hero was left to live the famous battle withAchilles which overshadowed most of the battles in Trojan war. It is said that the eyes of all gods were focused on this particular battle and all of them cheered for their favourite. Eos naturally hoped that her son would be able to defeat Achilles but the fates had other plans. Achilles managed to overcome and kill Memnon. And it is said that when Memnon fell by the sword of Achilles, Eos groaned and moaned, palled herself in clouds and the earth was darkened. The winds gathered on the Plains and floated around the bodies of fallen men. The gods later gathered the bodies on a pile and made a river that, while fertile all year, would once a year turn into blood as a memory to Memnon. Eos still moaned and didn’t want to show up the next morning but Zeus found this to be outrageous and summoned her with his thunderbolt. She then begged him for a proper funeral of her son and Zeus, thought of it as just proposal, granted her wish. When Memnon’s nation, the Ethiopians, buried him, the goddess transformed them into birds sweeping through air around the barrow of the mighty dead.

Gods – Egyptian Geb

Gods – Egyptian Geb

Geb is the Egyptian god of the Earth. He is also a god of fertility and farming, and is associated with birth, death and the life cycle in Egyptian mythology. Geb is also sometimes referred to as “seb” or “keb”. There is some debate over the proper pronunciation and spelling of his name, as well as when different variants of his name were used in ancient Egypt.

Geb Facts

Name(s): Geb
Rules over: Earth, Fertility, Farming
Gender: Male
Symbols: Reeds, Grain
Sacred animals: Goose, Snakes, Rabbits, Bulls
Parents: Shu (Father) and Tefnut (Mother)
Siblings: Seth, Osiris, Nephthys, Isis, Horus
Greek Similar: Gaea, goddess of the earth.
Roman Similar: Terra Mater

Origins

The oldest known depiction of Geb is found in Heliopolis, and is dated to approximately 2600 B.C.E.

Geb was incorporated into the Great Ennead of Heliopolis. Ennead is a Greek term for the number nine, and its meaning relating to Egyptian mythology is “a collection of nine deities”. There were a number of Enneads, or collections of nine deities, created in ancient Egypt at various points of the civilization. The Great Ennead is the most famous of those collections.

The Great Ennead was formed as early as 2600 – 2500 B.C.E. The other eight members of this particular grouping included Atum, Shu, Tefnut, Nut, Osiris, Isis, Seth and Nephthys.

Appearance

In hieroglyphic writings, Geb was usually portrayed in a purely human form. In many of these portrayals, he can be seen covered with plants or vegetation to symbolize fertility in farming. He was sometimes depicted as having green hair or skin, and also at times shown with a goose sitting on top of his head.

He was also shown lying on the ground underneath Nut who was arched high above and covered with stars, or underneath Shu who was between him and Nut.

One example of this is found on the Papyrus of Tentamun, and can be found in other papyrus writings as well. Geb can also at times be found in scenes in a zoomorphic or hybrid form, such as having a snake’s head and human body.

Family

His parents were Tefnut, known as the moisture goddess, and Shu, the god of sunlight, wind and air. Geb also had a twin sister, Nut, who was goddess of the sky.

Geb and Nut produced four offspring – Seth, god of storms and disorder, and Osiris, Isis, and Nephthys. At times they were said to have a fifth child, Horus.

According to the Heliopolitan Ennead system, Geb had an important place in the creation story. Some time after he and his sister were born, they began to have a relationship that was incestual. Their father, Shu, was not pleased with them and separated them. Shu held Nut up above his head in the sky, and kept Geb on the earth below him.

In the space between them, Shu created and gave life to nature.1 Even though they were separated, the siblings still had four (or five) children together. Narratives between cities and regions may have differed from this, but many of them had the father Shu holding or supporting Nut and standing on top of Geb.

As a result, Geb became very important to matters relating to the earth. It was said that earthquakes were the result of his laughter. Because of this relation to the earth, he became an important god in farming.

Symbols

Animals associated with him included geese, snakes, rabbits, bulls. Other symbols that were affiliated with him included plants such as grain or reeds.

Worship

There was not a major cult center associated with Geb, but the god did have a high number of appearances in hieroglyphics throughout Egyptian temples, tombs and pyramids. Heliopolis, located near Cairo, is one such place where Geb frequently appears.2

Facts about Geb

  • Depending on the belief system, Geb had four or five siblings, and they were born from Shu and Tefnut.
  • One mythological narrative has Atum becoming angry at Nut and Geb. He curses them so that they can’t have any children in any month. Thoth, the god of knowledge, cunningly adds five days to the lunar calendar to form a new calendar, and the two siblings then had 5 children. This mythological story explained why
    there were 365 days in a calendar year.1
  • An Egyptian Pharaoh or king was known as an ‘heir of Geb’. The god was important during the transfer of power from one Pharaoh or king to the next.2
  • In hieroglyphics, the goose was used to spell the beginning of Geb’s name.

References

  • 1. Schomp, Virginia. “The Ancient Egyptians”, 2007. Marshall Cavendish Publishing.
  • 2. Wilkinson, Toby. “The Egyptian World”, 2007. Routledge.

Goddesses – Egyptian Mut

Egyptian Goddess – Mut

Mut is the Egyptian goddess of Creation. She is a mother goddess who came to prominence during the New Kingdom (c. 1550 – c. 1070 BC) as a result of her relationship with the god Amun. She is often represented as a vulture or a woman that at times may have wings.

Later, as she took on the attributes of other Egyptian goddesses, she was also depicted as a woman with a lion’s head. Sometimes she wore the royal crowns of Upper and Lower Egypt and sometimes the vulture headdress of the queens of the New Kingdom.

Mut Facts

Name(s): Mut (Mother)
Rules over: Creator Goddess / Primordial Water
Gender: Female
Symbols: Crown of Upper and Lower Egypt
Sacred animals: Vulture, Cobra, Lionness
Parents: Ra
Siblings: Hathor, Sekhmet, Bastet
Greek Similar: Gaia, Ancestral Mother of Life
Roman Similar: Terra

Origins

Mut is believed to have originated as a local goddess in the Nile River delta, after which she replaced and assimilated many other Egyptian goddesses over the course of millennia. She was originally linked to the primeval waters of the universe, from which all things were born. Her identity as mother of the cosmos gave her aspects of a creator goddess.

Mut became a national goddess when Amun, king of the gods and god of the wind, became patron of Thebes during the Eleventh Dynasty around the 21st century B.C. She took the place of Amun’s original wife Amaunet, the invisible goddess. With Amun being the god of the pharaohs, she became their mother and was closely associated with the queens.

After Amun’s authority waned and he merged with the son god Ra, Mut was assimilated into Hathor, the mother of Horus, who was also identified as Ra’s wife. She was later absorbed into the Heliopolitan Ennead.

Family

Myth has it that as the great mother from who everyone was brought forth, Mut had no parents. In some depictions of her she also has male parts. Although she was the mother goddess, she did not give birth to her own children. Instead, she first adopted Menthu, the war god, and then Khonsu, the moon god.

Symbols

Mut is most often affiliated with vultures. Other animals she may be affiliated with include cobras and lionesses.

Worship

Mut, Amun, and their son Khonsu were worshiped as the Triad of Waset. Waset was the ancient Egyptian name for Thebes, and became the capital of the pharaohs during the New Kingdom. A large temple complex, commonly referred to as the Temple of Karnak, was constructed in Waset (Thebes) to worship the triad.

The Karnak Temple Complex consists of various precincts, one of which is the Mut Precinct. The other two precincts are the Precinct of Amun-Ra and the Precinct of Montu.

Inside the Mut Precinct are six temples. These include Mut Temple Proper, the Contra Temple, and temples labeled as A, B, C and D. All six of these temples are surrounded by a wall made of mud and mud-brick.1

The Mut Temple Proper is surrounded by a lake in the shape of a horseshoe. During the festival of Mut, a boat with a statue of the goddess was sailed around the lake. Interior reliefs from the temple in Karnak show evidence of daily devotions by the queen and her priestesses. No other examples exist of exclusively female worship in ancient Egypt.

Evidence exists that it was the pharaohs Hatshepsut and Thothmose III who were responsible for the earliest versions of the Mut Precinct. Excavations at the precinct first led archeologists to believe that the temples were built by Amenhotep III because of the presence of several statues of the goddess Sekhmet bearing his name. However, it is now believed that they were brought here after his death at a time when Mut and Sekhmet were closely associated.

Over the centuries, more additions and improvements to the Mut temple precinct were done by pharaohs such as Rameses II, Rameses III, and Taharqa, who was also king of the Kush.

Facts About Mut

  • Mut’s name is written with the hieroglyph for vulture;
  • The many titles given to Mut over the years included Mother of the Gods, World-Mother, and Lady of Heaven;
  • Mut became the eye of Ra after Amun merged with Ra;
  • The custom of depicting Mut wearing the Double Crown of Egypt was begun by Hatshepsut. Stating that she was one of Mut’s descendants, Hatshepsut brought prominence to the goddess in the ancient Egyptian pantheon;
  • One of the many aspects of Mut was a composite deity by the name of Mut-Isis-Nekhbet, known as the Great Mother and Lady. In this form she was depicted as a winged goddess with three heads – that of a lion, a vulture, and a woman with different headdresses. She also had lion-like feet and an erect penis;
  • Her’s temple precinct at Karnak was called an Isheru and remained an important religious center for nearly 2,000 years. Fed by an underground spring, it is the largest preserved Isheru in Egypt today;
  • The Greek Ptolemaic dynasty maintained the temple of Mut, adding their own decorations;
  • After the conquest of Egypt by Rome at around 30 BC, the Roman emperor Tiberius rebuilt the site when it was flooded. While some of his successors maintained its upkeep, it eventually fell into disuse.

Gods – Plutus, Greek God of Wealth

Greek God – Plutus

Plutus, which is the Latin spelling of Ploutos, is the god of wealth. He was supposedly born on the Greek island of Crete and is the son of a local hero named Iasion and the goddess DEMETER, who is the goddess of harvest and fertility. He is often depicted as a boy carrying a horn-shaped container of wheat called a cornucopia.

Here are some interesting facts about Plutus:

Plutus Was Originally the God of Agricultural Wealth

The reason Plutus carries wheat was because he was originally meant to only represent wealth in terms of farming output, such as an abundance of crops. But he eventually came to represent wealth in general.

Plutus Was Blind

The Greek god ZEUS blinded Plutus when he was very young, so that he would not just bless wealth onto good people and those who were deserving of it, but onto everybody. Famed ancient Greek playwright Aristophanes once wrote a comedy about Plutus, in which he regains his sight and thereafter only bestows wealth onto those who actually deserve it.

Plutus Was Also Handicapped and Had Wings

Plutus was not just blind, but he was also handicapped. This was to explain why wealth sometimes took a long time to come. He further had wings, which was meant to represent why he left a lot faster than he came.

Often Associated with Pluton

Pluton, which is also written as Plouton, is a Greek god similar to Plutus. He is the god of hidden bounty, and like Plutus, he is often carrying a cornucopia.

Plutus Is Often Depicted as an Infant in the Arms of Goddesses

Many depictions of Plutus show him as baby, sitting in the arms of either TYKHE (TYCHE) — who is the goddess of good fortune — or Eirene (Irene), who is the goddess of peace. This was meant to show that wealth rarely comes alone. It often comes hand-in-hand with good luck or peace.

Plutus is Often Confused with Pluto

While their names may sound similar, Plutus is very different from PLUTO, who is the god of the underworld.

SOURCE: <a href=”https://greekgodsandgoddesses.net/gods/plutus/”>Plutus: https://greekgodsandgoddesses.net</a&gt; – Greek Gods & Goddesses, June 11, 2018

Goddesses – Selene, 2nd Generation Greek Titan

Selene – Greek Titan Goddess of the Moon

Selene, goddess of the moon, truly represented the moon itself to the Greeks. Although she counts as a goddess in her own right, Selene often gets associated with archer goddess, Artemis, who is also a moon goddess. These two goddesses have additional association with HECATE.

Selene is a Titan goddess. Titan gods and goddesses were actually the divine beings that preceded the OLYMPIAN GODS and goddesses. The first of these divine beings emerged from the primordial and originally called GAEA mother and URANUS father.

Titan Gods and Goddesses and Cross-Cultural Origins

Among the first generation of the Titans were PHOEBE, THEMIS, and CRIUS. Some of the stories about these GODS AND GODDESSES may have been borrowed from cultures like Mesopotamia, ancient Egypt, and Persia. (This area was known as the ANCIENT NEAR EAST.)

Selene, however, was not directly related to Uranus and Gaia. Rather was the child of Titan goddess and god, Theia and HYPERION. EOS, goddess of the dawn, and HELIOS, god of the sun, were Selene’s siblings.

SELENE FACTS
Name(s): Selene
Rules over: The Moon
Title: Titan Goddess Of The Moon
Gender: Female
Symbols: Crescent (Lunar), Torch, Bull Horns
Sacred animals: Horses
Items: Chariot, Billowing Cloak
Parents: Hyperion and Theia
Consort: Endymion
Other significant others: Retinue: – Hesperus, Astra. Siblings: – Helios and Eos
Children: Fifty daughters (The Menai) and Narkissos to Endymion;

Pandia, Nemea and Ersa to Zeus;

Four Horae to Helios; Mousaios
Roman name: Luna

Selene’s Distinction Among Moon Goddesses

Additionally, although the ancients considered Hecate and Artemis counted as lunar goddesses, only Selene was the moon itself. She is said to have driven the moon chariot. This heavenly vehicle got its power from white horses. It drove across the sky, providing the night with its light.

The moon goddess love a mortal man named Endymion. It is said that Selene watched him while he slept beside his cattle. According to some legends, the pair had 50 daughters. One account even makes Endymion and Selene as the parents of NARCISSUS, the hunter of the ancient world who felt infatuated by his own beauty.

An Affair With Zeus

Although most often associated with Endymion, some accounts tell of Selene’s affair with ZEUS. This pair also had quite a few children, according to some retellings of the legend. In other stories, it is said that it was Zeus himself who gave Endymion immortality.

This divine magic trick made Endymion forever young. However, it came with a cost. Endymion was given the choice (by Zeus) of when he would die. The mortal opted for eternal sleep, thus granting him his youth, but it was a youth he could not enjoy. Selene visited Endymion each night in his place of rest near Mount Latmos.

Titans, Shamans, and Mystery Religions

Scholars who study the TITANS say that some of the rituals and stories associated with gods and goddesses like Selene existed to support ancient shamanistic practices.

As Selene’s Greek identity morphed into its Roman one, Selene became LUNA. Although some legends say that she as well as Hecate and Proserpina were triune goddesses, that wasn’t necessarily the case. Rather, the identities of these goddesses became one over the course of time.

Luna/ Selene was the moon goddess. As such, she was revered as on of the most important deities for agriculture. Luna/ Selene was given a temple on Palatine Hill. A mystery cult revering Luna/ Selene rose up. This would support the assumption that the stories of goddesses like Luna/ Selene were part of ancient shamanistic rituals in daily life

These rituals started first in families and clans, according to THE MET, and then were adopted by society itself until they were celebrated nationwide within the city-states of the ancient world.

The Purpose of Mystery Cults

Mystery cults in the ancient world have an air of secrecy to them. According to some scholars, these religious cults existed so that people could perform birth and death rituals.

It should additionally be noted that Selene sometimes merges with Diana/ARTEMIS as the same goddesses. In this form, she then also becomes the goddesses of the hunt. However, even as the goddess of the hunt, she is ever and always still a moon goddess.

Her Depiction

Selene (and her counterparts) are depicted in ancient art wearing a moon symbol (usually crescent.) While she is most often shown as riding horses, some portrayals have her driving an oxen team. When this happens, her crescent moon is formed from the bull’s horns.

Who was the Greek Goddess of the Moon?

The Greek goddess of the moon was Selene. She was often depicted as a beautiful woman with a crescent moon on her forehead, riding a chariot pulled by two horses or oxen.

In Greek mythology, Selene was the daughter of the Titans Hyperion and Theia, and the sister of Helios (the sun) and Eos (the dawn).

Selene was also associated with the goddess Artemis, who was sometimes referred to as the “Mistress of Animals” and was known to hunt by moonlight.

SOURCE: <a href=”https://greekgodsandgoddesses.net/goddesses/selene/”>Selene: https://greekgodsandgoddesses.net</a&gt; – Greek Gods & Goddesses, February 7, 2017

Goddess – Tykhe, also known as Tyche, Greek Goddess of Chance, Fate and Fortune

Greek Goddess – Tykhe, also known as Tyche

Tykhe, also known as Tyche, was the Greek goddess of chance, fate and fortune. She represented not only the positive aspects of these characteristics but also the negative ones. The ancient Greeks thought she was the reason for unexpected events in their lives, good and evil. For example, if someone had much success in life without having to try hard, people said that Tyche blessed him at birth. When someone worked hard but still had bad luck, they thought this goddess was responsible.

 

Who Were Tyche’s Parents?

According to Hesiod, a Greek poet, she was the daughter of OCEANUS and TETHYS while others thought that ZEUS was her father. People from various Greek regions worshiped Tyche, but she was especially popular in Athens. Athenians believed that this goddess favored their city. Some of her other famous sites of worship included temples at Argos and THEBES.

 

Tyche’s Appearance & Traits

When the ancient Greeks honoured her beneficial traits, they usually referred to her as Eutychia or Eutiykhia, goddess of prosperity, success and good fortune. Tyche was usually pictured with wings, a regal staff and a crown. However, many images also showed her with other items. These objects related to various traits. For example, when she was pictured holding rudders or a wheel, it meant that she was directing world events.

If she had a horn of plenty, she was a giver of abundant prosperity and wealth. When Tyche was balancing on a ball, it symbolized unstable fortune that could come and go, just like a ball might roll in any direction. In later times, she appeared wearing a blindfold and was shown with other assorted items that suggested risk and uncertainty.

In Rome, this goddess was known as Fortuna. To the Romans, Fortuna was much more important than Tyche to the Greeks. Additionally, Fortuna was not pictured with wings or a ball, especially in later times. This suggests that the Romans only saw her as a goddess of good luck who blessed mankind with beneficial fortune.

SOURCE: <a href=”https://greekgodsandgoddesses.net/goddesses/tyche/”>Tyche: https://greekgodsandgoddesses.net</a&gt; – Greek Gods & Goddesses, September 13, 2018

Gods – Greek 2nd Generation Titan – Atlas, God of Endurance and Astronomy

Greek Titan – Atlas

Atlas (the heaven-bearer) was a Titan god of endurance. He was also identified as a god of astronomy because he was the first who instructed mankind in astronomical science which was basically used for navigation and measuring the seasons. It is said, in Library of History by Diodorus Siculus, that he surpassed all others by mastering astrology and was the first to discover spherical nature and therefore being touted as the heaven-bearer. According to Hesiod and Hyginus, Atlas was one of the four sons of Iapetus and oceanid called Clymene but in another source, according to Apollodorus, Iapetus and Asia were his parents. During the war of the gods, unlike his brothers Prometheus and Epimetheus, Atlas sided with the titans along with his other brother Menoetius. After the war he was punished by Zeus who decided not to send him to Tartarus together with his relatives but instead he was sent him to the western edge of the known world, to hold axis between heavens and earth apart and therefore prevent the recurrence of primeval union of Gaea and Uranus and probably a birth of new powerful descendants.

Condemned to a special punishment

During the war against Olympians, Cronusmade Atlas their leader, mostly because of his war skills, extreme orientation and durability. As it turned out, he was quite a leader and it looked like for a long time that they were going to win the war. However, they were outnumbered in the end because Cronus made too many enemies during his ruleage. Atlas was, unlike his relatives, condemned to a special punishment by Zeus himself. He made him as an eternal caretaker of the axis between heavens and earth which were controlled by his predecessors in the past. Because of his endurance, Zeus believed that he was just going to be able to hold them and do nothing else in the meantime. He was right, Atlas was, according to Aeschylus and Ovid, barely supporting the enormous weight of heavens on his shoulders. However, there is an alternative description of the titan by Valerius Flaccus and Virgil who are describing him as an enormous giant standing in the ocean with his feet and his head reaching above the clouds while with ease holding heavens apart from earth.

Descendants of Atlas

But before the punishment, Atlas was in love with Pleione, one of the oceanids, the daughters of Oceanus and Tethys, who gave birth to Pleiades, seven in numbers, that were mentioned by most authors. Their names were Alcyone, Asterope, Celaeno, Electra, Maia, Merope and Teygate.

There is a further explanation presented by Hyginus who mentiones in his Fabulae that Atlas and Pleione actually had twelve daughters and a son Hyas. Five of them were Hyades and were named after their brother who was killed by a lion and they had grieved for him so much that they died because of it and were placed among stars. Their names were Ambrosia, Coronis, Eudora, Phaesyla and Polyxo. And when Hyades died, the rest of the sisters also brought death upon themselves by further grief and were placed among stars known as Pleiades. According to Diodorus Siculus, Atlas also had a brother Hesperus and eventually married one of his daughters by the name of Hesperis. She bore him seven daughters that were named Atlantides, after their father, and Hesperides, after their mother. They were very beautiful and pure and therefore they caught the eye of Egyptian king who dispatched pirates to kidnap them. They were later saved by Heracles.

The account with Heracles

As mentioned above, the daughters of Atlas were kidnapped by pirates while they were playing in their garden and when the pirates stopped to have a meal on their route back to Egypt, Heracles, in one of his last labours, came along. When he found out by the maidens what had happened, he slew the pirates on site and brought ladies back to Atlas. In his gratitude, Atlas helped Heracles in his labour, presumably giving him the apples from his daughter’s garden, and also gave him lessons in astrology.

However, the mainstream belief is that Atlas was encountered by Heracles who came to the titan on the advice of Prometheus in his eleventh labour, when he had to retrieve apples of Hesperides. In need of his services, Heracles offered himself as temporary caretaker. In return he asked the titan to help him with the Golden Apples quest. The garden, controlled by Hera, was tended by Hesperides, the titan’s daughters. Upon return, Atlas tried to convince Heracles to hold the heavens for a bit longer while he was going to deliver the Apples himself which was definitely not the case. Heracles thought of this trickery and asked him to hold the heavens for just a few moments so he could reposition his cloak to serve him as support. The titan fell for the trick and when he reclaimed his position, Heracles took the apples and ran away, and opportunity to escape was gone.

“Released” from his burden

According to Fulgentis’ Mythologies and Ovid’s Metamorphoses, Atlas, with the heavens on his back, was at some point encountered by Perseus who was on his way back to Seriphos Island. Perseus kindly asked the titan for a shelter over night, telling him that he was a son of Zeus. The titan replied by stating that he was a liar which angered the hero and Perseus then in revenge turned Atlas into stone by showing him the head of Medusa and released him from his burden. From that point on he was known as Mount Atlas. Now, this contradicts the story of Atlas meeting Heracles becuase Perseus lived in the times before Heracles and therefore Heracles could not meet Atlas and ask him for help, if he was already turned into a mountain.

Goddesses and Gods – The 21 Main Egyptian Gods and Goddesses

The Egyptian pantheon includes all the gods created by the falcon-headed Sun god Ra. Egyptian gods include many gods with animal heads (Horus, Set, Anubis, Thoth, Bastet, Sekhmet, Ra) and others with human heads (Osiris, Isis, Nephthys, Amun).

We will see together in this article:

  • The gods Ra, Apep, Aten, and Sekhmet involved in the creation of the Universe
  • The gods Set, Osiris, Isis, Nephthys, and Horus involved in the tragedy called “myth of Osiris”
  • The gods Anubis, Thoth, and Ammit involved in the judgment of the Egyptian dead
  • The other important gods: Khepri, Amun, Ptah, Taweret, and Sobek

Let’s begin without further ado by discovering the first of these gods and the creator of the Egyptian world: Ra, the falcon Sun god.

 Ra –

The creation of all the other gods by Ra

The primordial function of Ra in the Egyptian Universe

Apep

Aten

Osiris

Isis

Horus

Set

Nephthys

Sekhmet

Bastet

Hathor

Anubis

Ammit

Thoth

Khepri

Ptah

Amun

Taweret

Sobek

click here to read information presented about the 21 main Egyptian Gods and Goddesses

Goddesses and Gods – A List of Sun Deities

I will use this list to do a more in-depth post on these deities in the future.

Name Nationality/Religion God or Goddess? Notes
Amaterasu Japan Sun Goddess Major deity of the Shinto religion.
Arinna (Hebat) Hittite (Syrian) Sun Goddess The most important of three Hittite major solar deities
Apollo Roman Sun God
Freyr Norse Sun God A fertility god associated with the sun.
Helios Greek Sun God Before Apollo was the Greek sun god, Helios held that position. Helios road a chariot.
Huitzilopochtli (Uitzilopochtli) Aztec Sun God
Hvar Khshaita Iranian/Persian Sun God
Inti Inca Sun God The national patron of the Inca state.
Liza West African Sun God
Lugh Celtic Sun God
Mithras Iranian/Persian Sun God
Ra Egypt Mid-day Sun God An Egyptian god shown with a solar disk. Center of worship was Heliopolis. Later associated with Horus as Re-Horakhty. Also combined with Amun as Amun-Ra, a solar creator god.
Shemesh/Shepesh Ugarit Sun goddess
Sol (Sunna) Norse Sun Goddess She rides in a horse-drawn solar chariot.
Sol Invictus Roman Sun God The unconquered sun. The title was also used of Mithras.
Surya Hindu Sun God Rides the sky in a horse-drawn chariot.
Tonatiuh Aztec Sun God
Utu (Shamash) Mesopotamia Sun God

Goddesses and Gods – 7 Ancient Pagan Gods We Still Love Today

The old pagan gods—those legendary figures out of Norse, Greek, Roman, and many more belief systems—are fascinating subjects. These gods had all of the emotional fallibility of human beings, yet the all the power of the gods they were, and in their stories, they proved capable of shocking levels of pettiness, jealously, and downright cruelty. They were also, however, capable of great kindness, heroism, and justice, making for a set of truly interesting characters. They were us, but moreso.

It’s no wonder, then, that many of these gods that featured in stories thousands of years ago are still prominent in our contemporary fiction. We see them in our superheroes and action stars, who can be thought of as the great grandchildren of the original pagan gods.

But those gods that have survived the millennia with their names and stories intact are the ones we love the most—something about their personalities, their struggles, or their stories intrigues us. They’re the most compelling of them all, so let’s explore them by taking a look at 7 ancient pagan gods we still love today.

Click here to read about the following Gods and Goddesses

Loki

Zeus

Hercules

Odin

Thor

Shinigami

Hel

The Immortality of Entertainment

The fact that we’re still telling stories about these gods and goddesses thousands of years after their heyday is amazing, and these particular 7 beings have a special appeal that goes beyond the norm.

Maybe it’s because they’re powerful. Or perhaps it is because we wish we could affect the world like they do. But likeliest of all is that their larger-than-life personalities and stories simply allow us a glimpse of the extremes of life that few of us ever get to experience.

And that is why the gods will never die.