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Nemesis
NEMESIS was the goddess of indignation against, and retribution for, evil deeds and undeserved good fortune. She was a personification of the resentment aroused in men by those who commited crimes with apparent impunity, or who had inordinate good fortune.
Nemesis directed human affairs in such a way as to maintain equilibrium. Her name means she who distributes or deals out. Happiness and unhappiness were measured out by her, care being taken that happiness was not too frequent or too excessive. If this happened, Nemesis could bring about losses and suffering. As one who checked extravagant favours by Tykhe (Fortune), Nemesis was regarded as an avenging or punishing divinity. In myth Nemesis was particularly concerned with matters of love. She appears as an avenging agent in the stories of Narkissos and Nikaia, whose callous actions brought about the death of their wooers. In some versions of the Trojan War, she was the mother of Helene, and is shown in scenes of her seduction by Paris pointing an accusing finger at the girl. Nemesis was often sometimes depicted as a winged goddess. Her attributes were apple-branch, rein, lash, sword, or balance. Her name was derived from the Greek words nemêsis and nemô, meaning "dispenser of dues." The Romans usually used the Greek name of the goddess, but sometimes also called her Invidia (Jealousy) and Rivalitas (Jealous Rivalry). | | | | |
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Eileithyia Eileithyia is the Greek Goddess of childbirth, though you rarely hear her name. Though little-known, she is the daughter of Hera and Zeus, and therefore a sister to Ares. In myth, Eileithyia was involved in the birth of Hercules, as well as the twins Artemis and Apollo. Her Roman counterpart was Lucina. |
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December 21 Capricorn Begins (Various locations) Amaltheia Themes: Success; Humor; Reason; Devotion; Providence Symbols: Goat; Cornucopia; Stars About Amaltheia: In Greek mythology, thsi she-goat goddess nourished Zeus as an infant. In later years Zeus broke off one of her horns, which became the cornucopia, providing sustenance for all earth's creatures. For he diligence and service. Amaltheia was transformed into the constellation Capricorn, where she remains. To Do Today: This astrological sign begins on the first day of winter with the power of logic and reason to guide action, balanced by a keen sense of humor when the going gets tough. Those born under this sign strive tenaciously for success, like the stubborn goat they are. To improve your personal tenacity, make a paper horn filled with fruit. From now untilthe end of the year, eat a piece of fruit Amaltheia's diligence. Take that energy with you each day so that by the end of the year you will achieve success. Other ways of emphsizing Amaltheia's power include keeping the image of a goat (perhaps cut out of a maganize, or one made of stone) on your altar or in another place of honor today, carrying fortitude-inspiring herbs like gingerrroot and carnation, or tucking in your pocket for the day stones that inspire victory (like marble). |
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Hera Hera (Greek): This goddess of marriage was the equivalent of the Roman Juno, and took it upon herself to bestow good tidings to new brides. A maiden about to marry could make offerings to Hera, in the hopes that she would bless the marriage with fertility. In her earliest forms, she appears to have been a nature goddess, who presides over wildlife and nurses the young animals which she holds in her arms. This webset was assembled by Erin with Public Domain Tiles using one of the many auto-scripters available at Chat_Central_Gateway All rights reserved KENDOC 2005 | | | | |
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Athena
Athena-inspired women know no fear, or that's the face they present to the world at least. Rest assured, you can be a tough, independent, clever and resourceful woman, but do not be afraid to explore your weaker side too.
MANTRA GEMSTONES - Moonstone, lapis lazuli, dark aquamarine
ESSENTIAL OILS - Athena blend for the base chakra
AFFIRMATIONS - I release negative elements from my life
- I kick butt with an iron foot inside a velvet boot
- I feel supercharged when I de-clutter
- Today I choose to be free from clutter
- I express my truth for my highest good
Her Story
Zeus' favourite goddess Athena was the beautiful warrior queen who stood guard over the ancient city of Athens. She was adopted as the patron of the arts and craftspeople of Athens, and her brave swordswomanship made her an inspiration to the military forces. Athena's grace and intelligence were underlying qualities to her immense courage and strength.
Her Modern Energy
If Athena is talking to you today, it is likely you are experiencing moments when everything seems to be on top of you - but each time you conquer another difficulty, you feel on top of the world. Ask yourself why you are entering cycles of seemingly impossible tasks, only to surmount them then search out more. The rush that achievement brings provides you with an endorphin surge that is addictive - you are compelled to seek out bigger and better challenges to sustain your habit.
If this sounds familiar, you may be presenting a strong and courageous face to the world, but really you're drawing on your strength rather than devoting time to explore your weaknesses. It's time to unclutter your life of all the issues dragging you down - the lower you are dragged down the harder you have to fight to get back on top. Do you really want to stay this exhausted?
Pick up your sword and declare battle against the clutter in your life. There is as much satisfaction to be found in simplicity as there is in resolving complexity.
Do This
If you have clothes in your wardrobe you haven't worn in a year, give them away. If you have books on your shelf that you know you are not going to read again, pass them on. What junk is lurking in your drawers that you haven't used (or even laid eyes on)? Throw it out! Toss out sticky bottles of who-knows-what at the back of your fridge - fill it instead with fresh fruit, and top up with water ready for each new day to come.
As the wheel of the year turns, clear your immediate environment, and be boosted by how much lighter you feel.
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Artemis Themes: Adventure, Female Strength, Passion Symbols: New Moon, Nature In Greek mythology Artemis (also known as the roman goddess Diana) was the daughter of Zeus, the mighty ruler of the Olympian gods. Artemis' mother, Leto, gave birth to Artemis after a short and painless labor. But then Leto's labor continued, with her contractions growing weak and painful. Moved to compassion, the infant goddess Artemis, born only a few minutes earlier, became her mother's midwife and delivered her twin brother Apollo. You could say that, of all the Greek godesses, the goddess Artemis was literally born to serve as a nurturer and protector! The Greek goddess Artemis was frequently called upon to nurture her needy and somewhat ineffectual mother. All too often she felt compelled to come to her rescue even though Artemis received little from her mother in return. As a result of her having caused her mother no pain in childbirth, and her successful role as midwife in her brother's birth, Artemis naturally became the patron saint of childbirth, the protector of children, and the goddess who especially heard the appeals of women. The goddess Artemis was always responsive to the needs of the vulnerable and the suffering. She was quick to defend the powerless from unjust treatment at the hands of the Olympian patriarchy; it is not surprising that in current times Artemis is seen as the "feminist" goddess. Artemis seemed to be more comfortable with the companionship of women friends. Often depicted by artists while hunting or bathing with her band of nymphs, the goddess Artemis valued her freedom and personal space and protected them with ferociousness. Indeed, those who restricted her freedom, those who tried to thwart her commitment to reaching her goals, or simply invaded her privacy, paid dearly. When the hunter Actaeon accidentally came upon Artemis while she was bathing, she turned him into a stag, whereupon his own hunting dogs attacked and tore him to pieces. Artemis could be both vengeful and impulsive. When she discovered that Callisto, one of the nymphs in her band of companions, had violated her vows of chastity and become pregnant as a result of an affair with Zeus, Artemis, without a moment's hesitation, Artemis changed her into a bear. Had Zeus not intervened to place her in the stars as the constellation Callisto (The Bear), the young nymph would have died quickly as the victim of a hunt. The Greek goddess Artemis was often associated with the moon, especially the crescent or "new" moon. Phoebe was one of the many names she was called. The name Phoebe means the "light one" or "bright one". Artemis "Goddess of Light" had the divine duty of illuminating the darkness. Artemis was often depicted carrying a candle or torch, lighting the way for others, leading them through territories yet uncharted. In Greek mythology Artermis, despite her "wildness" (her refusal to conform to conventional ways or tradition) and her fierce independence, was depicted as one of the compassionate, healing goddesses. Of all the Greek goddesses, she was the most self-sufficient, living life on her own terms, comfortable both in solitude and in holding the reins of leadership. The Greek goddess Artemis gives us courage. Like her counterpart the roman goddess Diana, she illuminates those places that terrify us and lends us her strength to bring us safely through our fears. To Do: Animals that are associated with Artemis and that could be considered invoking during personal rituals this week are dogs, guinea fowl, elephant, horses, bear, dove, deer and bee. Incense or essential oils to consider getting and burning this week are jasmine, aloe, ginseng, lemon verbena and camphor. By burning these incense or oils in your home, you are able to inhale and fill your body with the power of Artemis. Stones and metals that you can consider placing around your home and in areas where you will be reminded of Artemis are, moonstone, pearl, quartz, silver, turquoise, iron, aluminum, and diamonds. Also, colors that you can wear this week or use to decorate your home are silver, white, red, green and turquoise. Have fun with inviting Artemis into your life and home. 
Known for her keen skill as an archer, Artemis was always focused and ready to spring into action. Take some time to plan ahead by keeping your goals in focus. Write down what you hope to achieve and where you want to be in the next few years. Know what you want out of life and then, like Artemis, pursue it. Allow yourself to be competitive, without feeling embarrassed or unfeminine. Sometimes competition brings out the best in us. Participate in some kind of bodywork (any kind from aerobics to yoga) to increase your awareness of your body and its agility. Find a type that you really enjoy, and make the most of it! Notice someone who is in need (of a smile, a meal, or just a word of encouragement). Rather than going your own way as you normally might, do something positive
to help them meet this need. No matter how busy you might be, set aside some time each day to really connect with someone you really care about...take just a few minutes to give them your full attention and some quiet appreciation. You'll find yourself a much more loving and desirable person. Spend time in the out-of-doors. Take a walk in the woods and revel in its solitude and wild beauty. Don't spend more than you can realistically afford, but make it a point to do something adventuresome occasionally. Go mountain climbing, camping, or white water rafting. Get in touch with the wild woman within. Honor Artemis in her role as defender and protector of youth, by providing encouragement and guidance to a young woman. Be a mentor Take care that your passionate energy, like that of Artemis, isn't being misdirected. When you need to cut your losses and channel your energy in more rewarding ways, visualize what you want to happen and repeat it often . . . until your positive thoughts become a habit, and your intentions a reality! Practice really focusing your attention on someone else, listening to them with your heart and mind. Don't tune out or drift off into a daydream. Your undivided attention and focus on their needs will prove to be quiet charismatic! Surround yourself with
Artemis symbols. Goddess Symbols of Artemis | | General: | |
Crescent moon (new moon), bow and arrow, sandals, clouds, three pillars, and blue sky. | | Animals: | | Dogs, guinea fowl, elephant, horses, bear, dove, deer, and bee. | | Plants: | | Anemones, flowering almond, hazel, ranunculus, honeysuckle, thistle, laurel, and fir tree. | | Perfumes/Scents: | | Jasmine, aloe, ginseng, lemon verbena, and camphor | | Gems and Metals: | | Moonstone, pearl, quartz, crystal, silver, turquoise, iron, aluminum, and diamonds. | | Colors: | | Silver, white, red, green, and turquoise | | Place a crysal bowl full of almonds on a table covered with a forest green cloth. Wear your moonstone earrings. Buy some sexy sandals. Plant a tree (even if it's a small one in a pot) to remind you of the presence of Artemis in your life! Don't be afraid to speak your mind and let everyone else know what pleases you (and what doesn't). Everyone knew just where they stood with Artemis, and they should with you as well. Spend time in the out-of-doors. Take a walk in the woods and revel in its solitude and wild beauty. Don't spend more than you can realistically afford, but make it a point to do something adventuresome occasionally. Go mountain climbing, camping, or white water rafting. Get in touch with the wild woman within! Stand firm and refuse to budge when someone tries to take advantage of you. Practice your assertiveness skills (or develop them through practicing if you have few to begin with). Speak out for what you really want. Take long leisurely walks, preferably with a dog as your companion (if your lifestyle doesn't permit a pet, borrow a neighbor's or volunteer to walk one at your local pound -- they're sure to love you for it!) Make it a point to spend time with your female friends and to cherish and nurture their companionship. Let them know how much their presence in your life means to you. Artemis was a champion of the weak and underprivileged. Make it a point to speak out on behalf of someone (or some cause) who is perhaps more vulnerable than you. Say "I'd like to hear what Mary thinks about that . . . " in your committee meeting, or write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper about an issue that you really care about. |
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Hecate Hecate was the daughter of Titans, Perses and Asteria. In later times her parentage was given as Zeus and Hera.. The Greeks called her "The Hag of the Dead" . She was also called "the most lovely one" a title of the moon. Hecate dwelt in the Underworld, but had power elsewhere. She was a goddess of the Moon, of the Underworld, and of magick. Also she was considered the protectress of flocks and of sailors. The owl was her messenger, and the willow was her tree. And she rode a chariot pulled by dragons. .Hecate was also considered the goddess of crossroads. She belonged to the class of torch bearing deities, and was conceived as carrying a burning torch to suit the belief that she was the nocturnal goddess of the moon and a huntress who knew her way into the realm of spirits. She was depicted wearing a gleaming headdress of stars. All the secret powers of Nature were at her command. She had control over birth, life, and death. Because of her power in the three areas of nature, heaven and earth she was represented as a triple form. She was called the triple goddess. The three phased moon. She was depicted as three female figures or as one with three animal heads. Of horse, dog and bear, or sometimes of three dogs. All wild animals were sacred to her. Her main area of work was goddess in the world of the dead, of night and darkness, mistress of all the witchcraft and black arts. We must remember that before Christianity the underworld was not the evil place it is considered today...then, it was the resting place of the dead. During the Middle ages, Hecate became known as Queen of the Ghostworld, or Queen of Witches. She was especially diabolized by Catholic authorities who said the people most dangerous to the faith were precisely those whom Hecate patronized: the midwives. Her ancient threefold power was copied, however, by priestly writers who reassigned it to their own deity" The threefold power of Christ, namely in Heaven, in earth, and in Hell." (1) Hecate was looked upon as a goddess of fertility, whose torch was carried over freshly sown fields to symbolize the fertilizing power of moonlight. In women's agricultural mysteries her trinity took form as Kore the green corn, Persephone the ripe ear, and Hecate the harvested corn. (2) In later times Hecate took on the form of a pillar called Hecterion. One statue shows her with three heads and six arms, bearing three torches and three sacred emblems. A key, rope, and dagger. With the key to the underworld, Hecate unlocks the secrets of the occult mysteries and knowledge of afterlife. The rope symbolizes the umbilical cord of rebirth and renewal. The Dagger or Athame is a symbol of ritual power. Hecate was the protectress of far off places, roads, and byways. At night during the dark moon, Hecate could be seen walking the road of Greece with her howling dogs and torches. Statues of her stood at crossroads where the traveler faced three choices. Food offerings called "Hecate's Supper" were left there late at night on the eve of the full Moon. The person leaving the food walked away without looking back, for they were afraid to confront the goddess face to face. This was a way of honoring the threefold goddess where on could look three ways at once. Hecate was accompanied by her dogs, Hermes, and her priestesses, Circe and Medea who it is said in some histories were Hecate's daughters. Her dog, who was her sacred animal had been offered to her as a sacrifice. The appearance of black howling dogs at night meant that Hecate was near, and their barking announced her approach. Then, earth began to bellow, trees to dance And howling dogs in glimmering light advance Ere Hecate came. -Aeneid, Book VL (Dryden) Hecate and her dogs are said to journey over the graves of the dead to search for souls of the departed and they carry them to refuge in the underworld. Hecate also enjoyed the company of the Furies. It is said that the Furies hounded and punished offenders who broke the taboo of insult, disobedience, or violence to a mother. Festivals A festival was held every year in the island of Aegina. Mystery rites were held in her behalf. Another festival was held on August 13 in Greece at the House of Storms and Fertility. It was held to aid in keeping the harvest storms from destroying the harvest. And still another was Hallowmas held on October 31 to honor Hecate at a time when the veil between the world was the thinnest. In Italy by the lake of Avernus, there was a scared dark grove of Hecate. In private worship to her followers were offered Hecates suppers. The leftovers were placed outdoors as offerings to this goddess and her hounds. Sacred to Hecate Key, torch, cauldron, dogs, owls, wild animals, Attributes Poppy, animals dog, willow, star, |
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Amphitrite Goddess of the SeaIn Greek mythology, Amphitrite, goddess of the Sea, was one of the fifty Nereids, that is a daughter of Nereus and Doris - that's what Hesiod writes in his Theogony (but Apollodorus says her parents were Oceanus and Thetys). Her Roman equivalent was Salacia, god Neptune's wife.
Her name means "The third one who encircles (everything)" (because the ancient Greeks thought the whole world was encircled by a river, Oceanus).
She spent most of the time singing and dancing with her sisters. One day Poseidon, god of the sea, saw her near the island of Naxos and fell in love with her. He kidnapped her and made her his wife.
In another story, Amphitrite, being a shy girl, fled away and hid somewhere in the Atlantic Ocean. Poseidon wanted desperately to find her, so he sent all the marine creatures to look for her. Delphinus, a dolphin, managed to find her and convinced her to go back to Poseidon and marry him. That's what made Amphitrite goddess of the sea. (By the way, the dolphin who found her was turned into a constellation by the grateful Poseidon).
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Amphitrite goddess of the sea has no special attributions (but sometimes she can calm the waters), she is just the mistress of the sea (and sometimes she is considered the mother of the marine creatures, but they existed even before she became queen of the sea). Amphitrite and Poseidon are usually represented together, with many real an imaginary sea creatures. Some even say that she is just a personification of the sea.
She also appeared briefly in the story of Theseus. King Minos asked the hero to prove that he really was Poseidon's son. A ring was thrown into the sea and Theseus had to bring it back. The sea creatures found the ring and gave it to the hero, while Amphitrite received him in her underwater palace and gave him a golden crown, which he took to Ariadne as a wedding gift. (As you can see, Amphitrite was the ideal wife, as she was never jealous of her husband's love affairs.)
Amphitrite and Poseidon had a son, Triton (a fish-man or a he-mermaid) and a daughter, Rhode, and maybe another daughter, Benthesicyme.
The Triumph of Neptune and Amphitrite
by Nicolas Poussin
 
The Triumph Of Amphitrite
Francken, Frans
Buy this Giclee Print at AllPosters.com
The Triumph of Neptune and Amphitrite
Gherardini, Alessandro
Buy this Giclee Print at AllPosters.com
Neptune and Amphitrite, 1516
Gossaert, Jan
Buy this Giclee Print at AllPosters.com
And this one is Amphitrite goddess of the sea as seen by Henri Matisse... I can't really say I can see her, but he's such a well-knowm painter, so I added him here too. |
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| Herbs of Artemis | | | | | | | | | | | | | "Goddess of the loud chase, a maiden revered, the slayer of stags, the archer. She travels the shadowy hills and the windy headlands rejoicing in the chase. Then tremble the crests of the lofty mountains, and terribly the dark woodland rings with din of beasts, and the earth shudders..." - Homer | | | | | | | | These are powerful words describing an even more powerful goddess - Artemis, Goddess of the Hunt, Patron of Childbirth and Death, Virgin Goddess. We have rekindled the ancient fires and with the aid of the goddess, remember the old wise arts we call magick. The knowledge of herbs is one of these arts.
To invoke the attributes of Artemis is to reach daringly deep within ourselves. And from this core of creation realize that each of us has the power to hunt, give birth and know death, remain true to our own inner vision and be brave, reason and act, and to love while still retaining our own self-identity. These are the ways of Artemis.
When Hera, Zeus' wife, learned that Leto was pregnant with Zeus' child, she banished Leto to give birth in a lonely place. Leto went to the island, Delos, and gave birth to Artemis painlessly. Artemis then assisted her mother in the birth of her twin brother, Apollo.
Painless childbirth and midwifery are new to some. However, those of us who have participated in these rituals know the power of the goddess and of herbs. Bethroot, black haw, raspberry and squawvine are again being used for female ailments and during pregnancy and painless childbirth. | | | | | | | | | | | Twas only to hear the yorling sing,
and pu' the crawflower round the spring,
The scarlet hep and the hindberrie*,
And the nut that hand frae the hazel tree." - Gerard | | | | | | | | | | | When Zeus asked the child Artemis what she wanted, she replied, "Eternal virginity and a silver bow and arrows." The silver bow represents the crescent of the new moon, symbol of the virgin. Virgin here meaning - inner focus, intuitive wisdom, always true to one's self and remaining true to one's own vision - familiar tenets of Wicca. Once carried to preserve virginity, lavender is used as a sacrifice to the gods in Midsummer fires.
As archetypes of Artemis, the Virgin Goddess, there are herbs we can use for strengthening our mental powers, reasoning and intuition. | | | | | Basil which can be sniffed to remove melancholy and in matters of love use in incense and as a culinary herb. Basil is also a good purification bath and sachet herb.
When in need of magical protection, use a wand made of hazel wood to draw a circle around you. Hang in your home to insure against lightening strikes. East the nuts to enhance your powers of reason and carry them for luck. Forked branches of hazel wood are used as divining rods and are traditionally gathered on Samhain.
Mugwort, also known as Artemis Herb, Witch Herb and Artemisia, allays fatigue on long journeys by placing a sprig in your shoe. Carried on the person, it wards against wild beasts and poison. Picked on the Full Moon, mugwort is used for scrying, clairvoyance, anointing magic mirrors and crystal balls and especially for inducing dreams. Mugwort is an obvious herb of Artemis traveling the wilds. | | Artemis is most often depicted with a bow and arrows. Shooting of the arrow is a symbol of pure expression of the self and self-worth. The arrow represents action, decisions and wishes. Bay hazel, rue, sage, southernwood, tarragon and thyme are used for action; protection on journeys and from wild beasts; bravery; self-worth and confidence; and love in which one retains self-identity - all attributes of Artemis. | | | | | | | Smell rue to clear the mind in thoughts of love, and, true to the goddess's love of action, use in spells to remove inertia.
Sage provides us with invigorating qualities. It promises to lift the spirits and increase vitality. Sage tea is a fine springtime tonic. Smudge stocks made of sage are burned in the home for healing and prosperity.
Use southernwood in sachets to keep away moths. Include this herb in bouquets for lovers. | | | | | | | | | | "To love in the midst of sweet, little children could do that, but to love in the bitterness of Southernwood is a sure sign of our affectionate fidelity."
- St. Francis de Sales | | | | | | | | | | | Tarragon means "little dragon of Artemis" and was used to treat the bites of snakes and mad dogs. Carry a sachet of tarragon in your purse when you expect hostility. Its scent will inspire you with the bravery of Artemis/Diana in her role as goddess of the hunt. Place a small measure of the herb in a locket to wear on a journey or quest requiring confidence and cool judgment.
Use thyme as an incense to cleanse a room of negativity. Another gift of thyme is that of clairvoyance, especially in matters of the heart. Use to prevent nightmares. Sprinkle the dried leaves of thyme in a wishing box along with a symbol of what you desire - particularly effective when the Sun or the Moon is in the sign of Aries. | | Artemis is often depicted accompanied by hounds. The bear was also sacred to the goddess. | | | | | | | | | | | Pennyroyal is helpful in relieving animals of suffering pests, and most certainly endeared the goddess to her traveling companions. The name pennyroyal is derived from the Latin, pulex meaning flea, so-called because of its reputed power, especially if used as a strewing herb, to kill or keep these pests away. Add to incenses for exorcism and protection. To prevent weariness place pennyroyal in your shoe. | | | | | | | | | | | | Artemis means water which reflects reality back to the onlooker. She's also a goddess of the moon, another symbol of reflection. Bay and rosemary used in water (reflective) rituals are definitely linked to this goddess's powers. | | | | | | | | | | | | Bay can be burned in purification rituals and to induce visions. Worn as an amulet, bay protects from evil. Use in your pillow for prophetic dreams.
Rosemary is used in water rituals and to guard against lightening strikes. Also use in the ritual purification bath before working magick and a tea to wake up the mind. | | | | | | | | | | | Artemis roamed the woods, she discovered the genus Artemisia of which there are 180 species and delivered their powers to Chiron the Centaur, who taught mankind the art of healing and who named these plants after the goddess. | | | | | | | | | | | | Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) is burned in incenses to gain protection from spirits of the night and to counteract the effects of hemlock and taodstool poisoning.* Also known as Absinthe or Old Woman, wormwood is used in love charms for relationships to retain one's own self-identity. In a garden, wormwood is valued as a repellent of flea beetles and cabbage butterflies. Dried it is used as moth repellent. | | | | | | | | | | All of these herbs are a boon for those of us who live close to nature and the goddess, whether we are inclined to spend a lot of time in the woods or fight the beasts of city living. | |
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Aphrodite
Themes: Love and Beauty
Symbols: Sceptre, Myrtle, Dove
As the Greek goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite holds great power over both mortals and immortals. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that she is featured in numerous myths, poems, and plays; likewise, there are many representations of Aphrodite in Greek sculpture and vase painting. While several legends of Aphrodite emphasize themes of love and desire, some of most compelling myths deal with the consequences that the goddess herself suffers as a result of being the victim of love. The story of Aphrodite and her interlude with the human Adonis makes for an interesting study of the double edged sword that passion can be. In this myth, the vulnerability of the goddess is poignant. This vulnerability points to the fact that in Greek mythology even the gods could suffer, and were certainly not immune to the pains and passions that we, as humans, experience.
To Do This Week: Carry a rose quartz with you this week as this is a powerful gemstone of love. This week, take the time to concentrate on those whom you love and appreciate them being in your life. Do something special for them. Also, remember that it is important to love yourself this week. Write an affirmation that is appropriate to you at this point in your life. My affirmation is: "I am a good person and deserve the best out of life." Share your affirmation on this thread if you would like to. Take the time to appreciate the beauty that surrends you, from the green grass to the blue sky. Love and appreciate everything that is in between it. Treat it with respect and kindness. Aphrodite was created from the ocean, so a good way to invoke her power is to have sea shells around you or a picture of a sea shell or the ocean. To internalize her power, drink water. (It is also healthy for you!!) Have fun this week and simply LOVE!!! Aphrodite by Zarre How can I express all the things I ought
To say, in lines so strict and binding tight?
The use of rhyme to show my deepest thought
Is foolish, but I thought I ought to fight
These doubts, and tell you how you make me feel.
I see you every night in dreams so clear
I'm always led to believe that they're real -
Until my heart feels dawn's cruel piercing spear.
Alas, these dreams are all I so far have,
Not having met you in the light of day.
I need you to know you're the one I love;
With silent lips I try again to say...
My Aphrodite, you know I love you -
Now I ask you this: Do you love me too? Invocation to Aphrodite Aphrodite of golden hair, With purest love and face so fair, Goddess of longing, You who inspire, And fan the flames of hot desire, Lady of pleasure and lustful nights --All acts of love are Your rites. Queen of love and passions wild, Smile upon Your loving child. You who were foam-born of sea, I ask Your blessings here on me. And when this sacred rite is through, Take my thanks and love with You. |
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Demeter Themes: Agriculture and Fertility Symbols: Sceptre, torch, corn (grain) About Demeter: As the goddess of grain and fertility, Demeter played an important - indeed essential - role in ancient Greek society. The Greeks, like most ancient cultures, relied upon agriculture for their sustenance. As the patron deity of agriculture, Demeter was accordingly worshipped with festivals (such as the Thesmophoria) and other honors. Likewise, her association with grain also translated into a close relationship with human fertility, as this was another crucial part in our continuing survival. There are, consequently, many myths dealing with Demeter in her capacity as a fertility goddess. Perhaps the most poignant of these myths is the so-called Homeric Hymn to Demeter, in which the story of the goddess and the loss of her daughter Persephone is told. The Hymn to Demeter is thought by scholars to be not only a myth about the abduction of Persephone and the consequent anger of Demeter - it also alludes to aspects of the mystery cult referred to as the Eleusinian Mysteries. This cult falls more properly into the realm of Greek religion, rather than myth. In addition to the myth of Demeter and her daughter Persephone in the Homeric Hymn to Demeter, another intriguing tale that involves the goddess of fertility is her affair with the mortal Iasion. According to the version told by the poet Hesiod, Demeter and the hero "coupled with passion on a field plowed three times, in the rich soil of Crete." Apparently, this legendary liaison with Iasion was quite a fruitful one, for Demeter became pregnant and eventually bore her human lover a son named Plutus. Demeter loves for her child is so powerful that it moves all nature to change and come alive. The ancients understood that the mother within us is activated when we nourish and nurture our inner child. So like any good mother should do some things to do to nurture the inner child. - take the time to do the things you want to do...
- associate only with the people you want to associate with...
- give and accept love from others...
- have the freedom to make choices...
- allow someone else to care for you...
- enjoy the fruits of your labor with no guilt feelings...
- take time to play and have fun each day...
- be in charge of your life and not let others dictate to you...
- be honest with others about your thoughts and feelings...
- not be so serious, intense, and inflexible about life...
- cry, hurt, and be in pain, as long as you share your feelings without suppressing them...
- be angry, and bring your anger to some resolution...
- make decisions for yourself...
- make mistakes, laugh at them, and carry on...
- let your imagination and creativity be set free to soar with the eagles.
As you get in touch with your Demeter energy, remember that love -- in this case love of self-- can have an enoumous impact on the world around you Things To Do : This week cook something that has corn in it to internalize the power of Demeter. While cooking the dish, visualize your intent so that your intent may be "cooked" into your dish. By doing this you will strengthen your the power of Demeter. Ask her to help bring you closer to a loved one, family or not. Here is a favorite recipe of mine that has corn in it: Amish Corn Bread - 1 c. sifted flour
- 1/4 c. sugar
- 1 tbsp. baking powder
- 3/4 tsp. salt
- 1 c. yellow cornmeal
- 1 egg, well beaten
- 1 c. milk
- 5 tbsp. shortening melted and cooled
Sift first 4 ingredients. Mix in cornmeal. Blend egg, milk, shortening until mixed. Add to dry ingredients and beat until smooth. Use greased (bottom only) 8x8x2 pan. Bake 400 degrees for 20 minutes. Demeter's corresponding animal is the Lion. Keep a picture of a lion somewhere where you will see it every day, at your work area, on the fridge etc. Every time you see the picture, think about Demeter and think how and what you want to develop and grow in your life. Demeter signifies fertility, but this does not necessarily mean that you want to get pregnant. If that is what you wish, then by all means, invoke her for that. But there are many things which we would need to work on for growth in our lives, relationships, spiritual, etc. Demeter is also associated with the root chakra and this week you can work on developing that chakra. To enhance the experience you can use one or two of the following stones, Clear quartz, Smoky quartz, Bismuth, Epidote, Fluorite, Hematite, Jasper Tan, Mugglestone, Obsidian, Tourmaline Black. These are all wonderful grounding crystals/stones. Remember to charge these stones with your intent. Here is a simple exercise to help with this chakra: 1. Sit with your spine straight, and bring your attention to your "sit place," the place where your body intersects the chair or floor. Notice any feelings or sensations in this area. 2. Now imagine roots coming down from your body, strong, beautiful roots that reach all the way down into the rich, vital earth. Imagine drawing earth energy up through these roots into your body. 3. As you do this, pay attention to the way gravity keeps you here, refusing to let you float away. Feel the solid comfort of your weight as it rests against the chair or floor. 4. Next, really notice your own aliveness: you are breathing. Your heart is beating. There are processes going on inside you that you don’t even have to think about. Give a moment of gratitude to your body for its wise functioning. 5. Now imagine trusting this universe that brought you forth, that called you here to take your place in life. Bring your consciousness once more to your "sit place," and thank it for its connection to the earth, and to life. |
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| Hecate NAME: Hecate, also Hebe the Virgin, Hera the Mother, Hecate the Crone, and Hecate Trevia.
SYMBOLS: Three-way crossroads, Dogs, the Moon, a Frog. USUAL IMAGE: One of the triple goddesses. She was seen at different times as a young girl, mother, and crone, the ancients ideas of the three states of female power. She is most often shown as a crone, an old hag with the power of death. HOLY BOOKS: The Book of Shadows. HOLY DAYS: September 21, Feast of Divine Life, October 31, Samhain. PLACE OF WORSHIP: Where three roads meet. RELATIVES: Dionysus, son (as Hecate Selene). FORM OF WORSHIP: Wine, dancing, running around naked, the basic stuff. SYNODEITIES: Hequit (Egyptian), Kali-Ma (Hindu), Baba-Yaga (Russian), Morgan Le Fay (Arthurian), Joan Collins (Hollywood). DETAILS: One of the oldest Greek versions of the Trinitarian Goddess, Hecate was derived from the Egyptian midwife-Goddess Hequit, Heket, or Kekat, who in turn evolved from the heq or tribal matriarch of pre-dynastic Egypt: a wise-woman in command of all the hekau or "mother's words of power." As a heavenly midwife Hequit delivered the Sun God every morning. Her totem was the frog, symbol of the fetus, and this animal was sacred to worshipers of Hecate. In Greece Hecate was one of the many names for the original feminine trinity, ruling heaven, Earth, and the underworld. Hellenes tended to emphasize her Crone or underworld aspect, but continued to worship her at places where three roads met, especially in rites of magick, divination, or consultation with the dead. Her image was used to guard three-way crossroads for many centuries; thus she was called Hecate Trevia or Hecate of the Three Ways. Offerings were left to her roadside shrines on nights of the full moon. Dogs were said to be the only animals that could always see her when she moved about on the Earth, so that it was said when dogs barked at night for no reason Hecate was walking by. During the early Middle Ages, Hecate was turned into the Queen of the Ghostworld or Queen of the Witches. One reason for this may have been because she was one of the favorite versions of the Crone, an archetype of the belief that as women had the power to bring life into the world with birth, at some point they must also gain the power to take it away.. |
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| HECATE THE CRONE Bony Old Crone
A-sittin�?alone
A-stirrin�?Her cauldron
And makin�?a moan..... Hecate, Crone Goddess, even though She is mostly known as the Crone, She is Hecate the maiden, Hecate the mother and Hecate the crone. She is a triple goddess in her own right. She is the three and the one. Unlike the detached meditations of the East, or the sedate Sunday prayer meetings of the church, witchcraft ceremony is passionate. The more deeply we feel about the Goddess Hecate when we pray to Her, the more moved we are by the liturgy, the more powerful the experience. There is a place of truth and love that reaches the heart. Devotion is a supremely personal matter, found by each of us in our own hearts. The more you learn about the Goddess Hecate, the firmer your faith will become. Learning to see the Goddess in all things is part of it, as the Goddess Hecate is everywhere. See Her when you slice an apple across, sit under a tree, or watch a moonrise. See Her when you perform simple tasks, such as sweeping, and recall the symbolism of brooms. A Goddess view of cooking turns a pot into a cauldron of transformation, gardening into goddesshood, singing into sorcery. Connecting with the moon is one of the essentials of Witchcraft. In learning to keep time with Hecate's cycles, we can free ourselves from much of the structure of patriarchy. For women, the moon is especially connected to our blood, and so links us to all the mysteries of birth, life and death. The moon connects us with the trees and their stories and uses, as each of Her cycles is named for one of these living kinfolk of the earth. In a society based on solar concepts and imagery, Luna is especially helping in attuning us to the dark side and the many qualities associated with the deep self. The Crone is the third and final aspect of the three-fold Goddess, Hecate. She is the dark moon, the wintertime, old age and knower of mysteries. The Crone time brings the harvest of experience, when we reap the accumulated benefits of all that we have learned. The Crone is a teacher or wise one, sometimes called the "wayshower" as she shines the light of wisdom for all to see. She brings patience. In myth and legend, the Crone Hecate is often seen with her great black cauldron stirring up brews for magical transformation or bringing the dead back to life. She is the fairy godmother who has just what we need to overcome the obstacles in our paths. She is the old woman of the woods, who lives alone in a humble cottage and can teach many secrets. To admit the Crone is to admit the dark side of ourselves which is like the dark side of the moon----the Crone’s moon. Hecate’s moon is hidden, and cannot be seen shining in the heavens. It is significant that astronomers and astrologers call Her the New Moon, thereby effectively ignoring the presence of the Crone. Some witches feel that we should return the word New Moon which would be the first sliver of the moon in the sky to the Maiden goddess, which is Her proper place, and reinstate the Old Moon (Dark Moon) as the Crone’s. We can therefore count our moon cycles from the first appearance of the slender waxing crescent, that very first sliver, and acknowledge the darkening end as the time of the Crone. To acknowledge this time is to allow for the natural cycles of our being as we move through the ups and downs of living. This is a far healthier way of life where each of our phases is embraced and loved. The association of loneliness with old age is a common one. A wise crone understands the power that can be attained in solitude. She knows that all oneness is the true meaning of being alone and is actually what the word "alone" is made of. There is a point reached in solitude when we no longer feel isolated because we have found our connection to all beings in the universe. Some witches, when the moon is waning, feels the moon’s power pulling them into solitude, beckoning them to working more within themselves. The Crone teaches us to withdraw from the world during the waning moon to find peace and sustenance for our return journey into the struggles of living. The dark moon of the self is a period of withdrawal from the everyday world. It offers an opportunity to commune with ourselves and tap the creative potential therein. To return to this way of life necessitates leaving the "rat race" approach and validating slowness, inwardness and being here and now. Solitude is one of the doorways to the deep self. It is especially useful for the cultivation of our powers of concentration. Most witches, as we begin to grow in our magical abilities, find that we seek solitude more and more, as it enables us to focus intensely on the objectives of our spells, rituals and doing more work within ourselves without distractions. Hecate as Crone understands the power of silence. Many spiritual journeys include a period of silence, or teach its discipline. Some adepts take permanent vows of silence, fir it opens up energies on the psychic level. Silence is the last step of magic, necessary during the gestation or formation period of our spell’s workings for preservation and protection. It is essential that we practice silence in our meditation and rituals, for it opens the door to universal consciousness. Hecate as Crone, is the knower of mysteries, secrets of existence, or hidden things. She presides in the dream worlds, guiding us through the unconscious labyrinths of our deep minds. She teaches us the symbolism of our dreams and helps us to understand and shape them to our choosing. Lastly, Crone Hecate understands endings, and utilize the waning moon for banishings, or spells to ride ourselves of unwanted or stuck energy. We can become Crones in our uses and understanding of the five elements of creation: Spirit Crones are conversant on the psychic planes, easily traveling in and out of our bodies, telepathic, clairvoyant, prophetic, divining whether it be Tarot cards, crystal balls, Runes, etc., understanding the cycle of birth, life and death and the rituals thereof, skilled in casting circles for small covens or large, spells, and the uses of dreams. Air Crones have profundity of thought, quickness of tongue, are adept in poetry, myth and language, the composing of verbal spells, the eloquence of asking aid from forces and elements. Air is to know. The Air Crone is also a Cutting Crone, for our minds are like cutting edges that sort and separate our thoughts. Naming a thing separates it out from the rest of creation. Cutting is also criticism, pruning, saying no, discipline. When we reach the crossroads of our lives, such as the time of passing from child to adult or maiden to mother, we must cut the umbilical cord of our habits on the old path in order to be free to embark upon the new. The cutting Crone is sometimes called Atropo, the third of the three Fates in Greek mythology. Fire Crones possess understanding of the secrets of fire and energy. They know the ways of conserving, storing and spending energy wisely, using vital forces with care and discrimination, rather than scattering them carelessly and wasting them. Fire is also kundalini, which a wise crone knows how to channel and direct for desired purposes. Fire is will, in which the Crone has achieved mastery. And on its simplest level, fire is our natural source of heat and light, and can be used for magic in many ways. A seasoned witch usually knows how to build and sustain fires, as well as to contain them safely, and extinguish them when necessary. A Water Crone is no longer a slave to her emotions, nor does she repress or deny them. Water is to dare. She is adept in her relationships with others, knowing enough detachment for an overview, and enough caring for compassion. She knows that her desires are sacred and worthy of cultivation and fulfillment. The Water Crone looks deep into her reflection in underground waters. When the water catches the light of the moon, she is there to find insight and divination. A wise Earth Crone knows her body, knows the earth, is adept in health care for herself and others who seek her aid. She is familiar with the seasons and methods of planting and cultivation, herbology, and agriculture. And she is also wise in ways of money, seeing its connection to human love and service and precious human energy. She is sensible, practical and dependable, keeps her promises and understands commitment, knows how to work as well as play. The idea of "balance" can be misleading for it often implies the adjustment of two opposing entities. For example, the yin/yang symbol of the Orient, the sun/moon dichotomy of the alchemists, the anima/animus theory or the Jungians, the god/goddess universe of the Druids and the tetragrammaton of magicians, in all these systems there is an "attempt" to honor and give equality to both ends of the polarity but do not be deceived. While pretending to create a world supportive of the female, they are still perpetuating the dichotomy, and thus the role stereotypes that oppress us all. This, Witches must realize, is the fatal flaw of even more advanced movements such as Neo-Paganism, modern witchcraft and the New Age spiritualities. Liberation can only come by returning to the Goddess. |
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HECATE The crone aspect of the triple Goddess (maiden, mother, crone), Hecate was worshipped during the dark phase of the moon where 3 roads crossed. As the Greek Goddess of death and regeneration, her powerful magic was widely respected. Her worship could have originated in Egypt as Heqit and possibly further back to Nubia and northern Sudan. She possessed knowledge of the Heka - the magical power of words. The frog (as a symbol of transformation) and the dog were her totems. Behind her, left, is part of a frieze from the Pergamon Altar: Hecate in her triple aspect in the battle between the Olympian gods and the Titans, 165-156 BCE, Greek, found in present day Bergama, Turkey; triple Goddess statue is Roman, 1st century; earrings from Madytos, Greece, 4th century BCE; necklace from Kourion, Greece, 4th century BCE (Greek and Roman) A pre-Helenic deity, the Goddess of magic and the underworld. She had many similarities to Diana. She traveled at night with a pack of hounds. She was described as a triune deity, Hecate Trivia: Artemis on earth, Selene in the sky, and Hecate in the underworld. Modern Wiccans identify this triad as the Maiden (Artemis), Mother (Selene), and Crone (Hecate)--the threefold Goddess of the moon. Supposedly, this Maiden, Mother, and Crone triad was also illustrated by the Greek Goddess triad of Persephone, Demeter, and Hecate. As Hecate Phosperous, meaning "Hecate the light-bearer," she carried a lit torch. After Hecate was adopted into the Roman pantheon, the Romans sacrificed black dogs and other black animals to her. In Italy, the luci averni, woods surrounding Lake Avernus, were sacred to Hecate. The Cave of the Cumaean Sibyl was located near Avernus. Hecate Greek Moon Goddess, neo-pagan Goddess of fertility and Moon magick, Queen of the Underworld and protectress of all Witches. She is also known as both the Goddess of Darkness and Death. She is the Queen of Ghosts and Crossroads. She is Hecate the maiden, Hecate the Mother and Hecate the Crone but in later years, She became most familiarized as the Crone. She is also known as Trivia, Goddess of the Crossroads and Antea bestower of noctural vision. Hecate's sacred candle colors are black and silver. Dark Goddess Hecate "The Earth began to bellow, trees to dance
And howling dogs in glimmering light advance
Ere Hekate came."
Dark Goddess Hecate's celebration day is November 16
The Goddess Hecate was a deity of the night, crossroads, life and death. She was called Most Lovely One, the Distant One, Queen of the World of Spirits, goddess of witchcraft. To the Thracians especially, Hecate was goddess of the Moon, the dark hours, and the Underworld. Midwives were connected with her.
Some myths say Hecate was the daughter of the Titans Tartaros and Night; other versions say of Perseus and Asteria (Starry-Night), or of Zeus and Hera. We do know her worship did not originate in Greece. One of her sacred animals was the toad, a symbol of conception. She was called the goddess of transformation as she ruled over the various passages of life, and could change forms or ages.
Hecate was considered to be the third aspect of the Moon, the Hag or Crone (Carrier of Wisdom).The Greeks called Hecate the Hag of the Dead. (The word "hag" may have come from the Egyptian word "heq", meaning a matriarachal ruler who knew magickal words of power.)
An ally of Zeus, she was accompanied by a pack of hounds.
An aspect of the Amazon goddess, Hecate's chariot was pulled by dragons. Her symbols were the key and the cauldron. The women who worshipped her often stained their palms and soles with henna. Her festivals were held at night by torchlight. Every year on the island of Aegina in the Saronic Gulf, a mysterious festival was held in her honor. |
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Daedala (Greece) Hera Themes: Love; Romance; Forgiveness; Humor Symbols: Oak; Myrrh; Poppy About Hera: Hera rules the earth, its people, and the hearts of those people. Using passion and creativity, Hera nudges star-crossed lovers together, charperones tryst, and helps struggling marriages with a case of spring twitterpation! Legend tells us that Hera refused to return to Zeus's bed because of a quarrel. Zeus, however had a plan. He humorously dressed up a wooden figure to look like a bride and declared he was going to marry. Hera tore off the dummy's clothes and discovered the ruse, she was so amused and impressed by Zeus's ingenuity that she forgave him. To Do Today: Ancient Greeks honored Hera and Zeus's reconciliation today, often in the company of old oak trees. Small pieces of fallen wood are collected to symbolize the divinities, then burned on the ritual fire to keep love warm. To mirror this custom, find a fallen branch and burn a small part of it as an offering to Hera. Keep the rest to use as a goddess image year-round, burning a few slivers whenever love needs encouragement. Present someone you love or admire with a poppy today to symbolically bestow Hera's blessings on your relationship. If you have a loved one away from home, burn some myrrh incense in front of their picture so Hera can watch over them and keep that connection strong. |
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