Medusa is one of the most famous characters of Greek mythology. Dohalice, which is a small village in the Czech Republic also uses her head in its coat of arms. From then on, men would fear the very sight of her, and Medusa would be protected from the unwanted touch of them. It is a spring-blooming flower and would bloom when Persephone was outside of the Underworld. Seeing claims that Athena saw Medusa in her temple and instead of catching her in the midst of consensual intercourse, she found Poseidon raping her. This account comes specifically from the Roman poet Ovid in his work Metamorphoses, told at the end of the story of Perseus. The Gorgon came out in 1964 and was a Hammer film that told a modern version of her story. Medusa herself had a chilling face topped with serpents that sprang from her hair. Others believe that Medusa was a Libyan snake goddess that evoked feminine power and ruled menstruation. The goddess was so upset over what she saw and the issues she had with Zeus who was her father that she flew into a rage. From a very early age in Britain, I was known to sit at the breakfast table reading encyclopedias about many of the major world mythologies. Stand up for womens rights. WebAlgol, usually considered a star of ill-fortune, is traditionally perceived as representing Medusas eye. Let the cut end dry for a few days to develop a callus before planting. It is often cited as a story where Medusa is unjustly punished as the victim of rape. Daedalus and Icarus Story Was it a Myth or Reality? Crocus became a companion and lover of Hermes, the messenger god. It is important to understand that the power of Medusa isnt necessarily a power based in Cosmic good. She has been featured in movies, books, cartoons and even video games. There was also a theory established by Helene Cixous in which she claims that the original story of Medusa was quite different. The portrait was done on a convex board made out of poplar with Medusas visage, bringing out its reference to Aegis. This idea first appeared in a journal in 1978. Echinacea. Next prepare the incense and fan the smoke toward the agalma. Legend says that Medusa was one of three children born to Phorcys. The initial telling of this myth depicts Medusa acting out in anger and Athena punishing her. Medusa appeared in dozens of television shows and movies over the years. Harrison further backed up her claims with a translation that said the horror did not come from the woman but that the horror gave birth to the woman. Business: For matters related to business, include plants like: Call upon Medusa when her ire is most fitting. Athena gave Perseus a shield with mirrors to deflect Medusas gaze, while Hades helped him remain invisible to her. Though she has a different name, she has the power to turn people to stone when they look into her eyes. When she found them together, Athena transformed her into a woman with serpents in her hair and a cold stare. Hesiod used her in Theogony. It is penetrating, and has the power to turn to stone anyone who meets it. Even some 6,000 years ago, Her image was used to frighten as a stormy, wrathful aspect of the Mother Goddess. The agalma is now consecrated for use so She should be treated as a sacred object, the physical form of Medusa Herself. She further claimed that the womans head simply served as a mask for those who later wielded it. Another Greek poet, Pindar, noted that she was fair-cheeked. Adonis had been killed by a ravaging boar, and while Aphrodite wept over his body, his blood on the grass transformed into the flowers. Place the crushed match heads in the center and light it with the fireplace lighter or match to activate it. The goddess carried the womans head on her shield. Medusa delivers strong flavor and aroma characteristics Splash a small amount of church wine onto it as well as a small amount of honey. Several regions also depict her on their flags and emblems. The stories about Medusa in Greece are unique because they changed quite a bit over the years. I personally like both, but know that the snake tail is a modern invention. WebMedina is one of the most popular of all Afro Caribbean herbs, especially so in Jamaica where it is commonly used to combat a variety of ailments but it is probably best known of Feeling as though his work was done, Perseus tracked down Athena and presented her with the head. Like Ambrosia, Dionysus honored Ampelos by transforming him into a grapevine so that he could live forever. Heracles (Hercules) is said to have obtained a lock of Medusas hair (which possessed the same powers as the head) from Athena and given it to Sterope, the Accept these sweet offerings as I sing praises in Your name! I recently spoke with a group of friends who are all on board with this idea, so who knows: maybe its true! Take a deeper dive into the epic poems that tell the stories of Medusa. Hear me, Gorgon Queen, come to me as I come to you, kindly and in good form. The souls of the ordinary dead were sent to the Meadows, where they would harvest the asphodel as food. When Aepytus found out that Iamus was Apollos son, he sent people to bring the child back. She is immediately recognizable, a classical figure and an exciting symbol of a monster. Later, he brought Hera strawberries after tricking her into breastfeeding him in place of her own baby to prevent her wrath. 4. You are free to take from it as you please, use all, part, or none of it, or even use it to inspire your own practice. WebHermes, Greek god, son of Zeus and the Pleiad Maia; often identified with the Roman Mercury and with Casmilus or Cadmilus, one of the Cabeiri. Hera and Athenas vengeance for this slight led directly to the Trojan War. His name is probably derived from herma (see herm), the Greek word for a heap of stones, such as was used in the country to indicate boundaries or as a landmark. From Athena, Perseus received a mirrored shield. There are several stories regarding Medusa. Last Updated on December 18, 2017 by Coven of the Goddess. She vowed to be celibate her entire life as a priestess of Athena until she fell in love with Poseidon. The blood from her head slowly found its way to the Red Sea where it formed the basis of the red coral seen there today. Those familiar with my work know I do a lot with spiritual vessels and Medusa is no different. Read on. You may be lucky enough to find Medusas Head plants ( Euphorbia caput-medusae) at a garden center that specializes in cacti and succulents. If you have a friend with a mature plant, ask if you can have a cutting to propagate your own plant. As the interpretations of her story are better understood through a lens of empathy and empowerment, the general publics opinion of the goddess has also shifted with the times. Next, enthrone Her in Her shrine or altar where She will be housed as sacred space. She was a beautiful maiden with golden hair. During the height of the #metoo movement, many women began using images of Medusa. I will say, since I have started serving Medusa as an active force in my cult and witchcraft the results have been beyond astounding. Like Crocus, Hyacinth was killed in a discus game, possibly deliberately by a vengeful wind god. For this Athena punished her hideously. There is an old folk tale that says if a menstruating woman's hair is buried in the ground that it will become a snake. WebMedusa is a mystical blend of ancient forests, blood red apples, a magical brew of herbs and resins, spicy peppers and a drizzling of sweet caramel and vanilla infused with snake When Perseus arrived, he forced her to look into the shield and see her reflection, which turned her to stone. For these types of rituals I will offer Her red church wine, whole uncooked eggs, and spring water in addition to any ingredients or materials for my spellwork. He was loved by many other gods, including the personification of the wind, but he always chose Apollo. Medusa by Caravaggio has its base in the form of a shield. Cixous urges women to use this story as a way to take back their own power and escape the control that men have over them. Pindar wrote in 490 BC that she had fair cheeks. She isa guide to many women and a source of power, wisdom and creativity to those who seek her assistance. This version claims that Athena became spiteful and used her powers to turn the woman into a monster that no man would ever want. Lets face it: Medusa is an intimidating presence, to say the least. Poseidons attempts to seduce Medusa started in a garden of rock roses. Daphne had sworn herself to perpetual virginity and refused him. Hail the Guardian Queen!. Athena took things a step further. They manage to escape when Percy beheads her. Elizabeth Johnston released an essay in 2016 where she talked about how men used the legend as a way to disparage Hillary Clinton as she ran for President. But this is how Medusa achieved Her apotheosis. The flag and emblem of Sicily also features her head. Euryale could leap with ease, while Stheno was stronger than her sisters. Natures 9 Most Powerful Medicinal Plants and the Science Behind Them. Whether or not youve chosen to make an offering to the Goddess Medusa, be sure to directly ask her if she would like to work with you and wait for an answer. These blood-red perennial spring flowers are named for anemos, the wind, which carries their seed. Most legends claim that the hero Perseus killed her with help from Hermes and others. If you have been seeing the symbols of Goddess Medusa and hearing the whispers, then this is your call to action. The urn itself can be painted bronze, and decorated with a Gorgoneion or large glaring eyes on its front (mini mirrors on the iris is a great idea), and or Evil Eye charms. Ill cover the most popular myths here as well as the myths that seem to describe her character, at least for me. Hail and welcome!, Take the vessel and fumigate it in the incense three times. Link will appear as Medusa: https://greekgodsandgoddesses.net - Greek Gods & Goddesses, February 7, 2017, Greek Gods and Goddesses 2010 - 2023 | About | Contact | Sitemap | Privacy, Seriphus sent Perseus to return with her head, Medusa: https://greekgodsandgoddesses.net. Medusa herself is a symbol of feminism and divine femininity. Now that we have the myths and iconography explained, we can dive into how I serve Her. However, afternoon shade is beneficial in hotter Unlike other stories that claim she caught them in the throes of passion, this version says that she was upset that her priestess went against her rules. Medusas Head euphorbia is suitable for growing outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9b through 11. Euphorbia requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day and tolerates temperatures in the low 90s (33-35 C.). Shes not super soft to work with and she probably wont let you loll around. There is also a lot of confusion on Her mythology itself. Shes definitely a deity who can teach you how to stick up for yourself and fight back! Euphorbia requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day and Her pure white milky skin turned a scary green hue. Combined with the gifts of Hades, Hephaestus, and Hermes, however, the protagonist of this story was certainly given a keen advantage before he was sent off to slay the so-called monster. Medusa also appeared in multiple pieces of art from the Renaissance and later. The idea of encountering her was terrifying to the likes of men, for a single glance from her wide, yellow eyes would turn one to stone in an instant. These blood-red perennial spring flowers are named for anemos, the wind, which carries their seed. (That said, if you are experiencing troubling symptoms, consult your doctor. Omissions? She wears snake jewellery and a chiffon fishtail skirt. Her hair forms long curls that, according to Mattel, foretell the serpents that will become her hair. Moon (many, including Orpheus disciples, have seen Medusas face in the moon) You may see Medusa herself or some of her common symbols in your dreams, such as snakes.Artistic representations of Medusa find their way to you. Aconite was also the deadly plant used in the attempted poisoning of Theseus by the devious queen Medea. I recommend that you work with Medusa using a pendulum or cards if youre new to divination work. She has really strong energy with the pendulum so youll definitely know when shes around. The goddess Medusa may also reveal herself in dreams or through symbols in life, such as the snake, or by sending other outcasts your way. Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions. SUBSCRIBE TO RECEIVE SALE ANNOUNCEMENTS + UPDATES. In Clash of the Titans from 1981, she was a standard villain. Perform a self-care ritual. There are many stories and interpretations of the Gorgon Medusa from Greek mythology and later years. However, be really for some kind of intense imagery: Medusa isnt for the faint of heart! The Goddess Medusa tends to reach out in very subtle ways. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Myth Nerd is our place for all things related to world mythology. Cast in stone his/her/their evil intentions he/she/they may set against me, cast in stone the heart and mind of NN and drink his/her/their blood with your forked tongue! From Athena to Zeus: Basics of Greek Mythology, This article was most recently revised and updated by, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Medusa-Greek-mythology, Ancient Origins - The Real Story of Medusa: Protective Powers from a Snake-Haired Gorgon, Medusa - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up). It is just MY way. But for each one I awaken it by first cleansing and fumigating Her in an incense of the following ground together: This incense is formulated with strong protective and evil averting properties. When Percy travels to a garden to find the Pearl of Persephone with his friends, they stumble across statues and realize they were humans she turned into stone. Her profile is engraved on coins of the reign of Seleceus I Nicator of Syria from 312-280 B.C. Medusa has also experienced another unexpected transformation over time. You can then gently wipe down the statue with soft linen cloth. As a result, she is persecuted further by the very gods she sought to serve. This probably means that youreally feel like the outcast in some way (not necessarily social or political but on a deep, personal, soul level). She isnt a Goddess to serve in a capacity of benevolence because She is and has always been a monster. Take a small bouquet of fresh spring flowers and dip it into the holy water and sprinkle it onto the agalma (sacred idol) to cleanse it. Greek Mythology is known for its many fearsome beasts such Mantikhoras and Cyclopes. You are sought out by snakes. They believe that there were events the occurred and that the Greeks simply created a new version of the event. But in later stories in Metamorphoses when Ovid mentions Medusa, She and Neptune have a more seductive relationship as we see in Book VI when he is telling the story of Arakhne. Chrysaor also came from Medusa. Leucothoe was the daughter of Orchamus, King of Persia, and the lover of Helios, the personification of the sun. The most significant of these was the myth of Persephone, who was captured by or eloped with Hades to the Underworld against the wishes of her mother, Demeter. It almost sounds like a win-win, to me. Medusa wandered Africa for some time. I personally feel that the energy of Athena allies with Medusa. Were women spared because Medusa didnt intend to hurt them? Turmeric. Later Roman representations began to depict Medusas signature snake-filled hair, but its often more innocuous than frightening. Similarly, Ganoderma tsugae (Ganodermataceae), Codonopsis pilosula (Campanulaceae) and Angelica sinensis (Apiaceae) are traditional Chinese herbs associated with immunomo While Medusa once had soft and supple white skin, it turned green. There are many herbs associated with Hecate, including mugwort, rue, hyssop, marjoram, fennel, thyme, rosemary, sage, lavender, wormwood, and dill. An urn type vessel with a lid (I use either antique sugar bowls or terracotta cantarito cups that I cap off with small terracotta planter dishes which can be easily painted, legend mentions it as a bronze urn). Born of the sea gods Phorcys and Ceto, it is often forgotten that Medusa herself is a goddess of the sea. Medusa was often depicted as a terrifying winged female with snakes instead of hair. 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Turned a scary green hue important to understand that the Greeks simply created new... Of heart forgotten that Medusa herself is a Goddess of the event know that the power of.... The Underworld this account comes specifically from the unwanted touch of them daughter of Orchamus, of. Her eyes victim of rape place of her story hail and welcome!, take the vessel and fumigate in! Many other gods, including the personification of the sea gods Phorcys and Ceto it! Me as i come to you, kindly and in good form bloom when Persephone was outside the. You, kindly and in good form Caravaggio has its base in the attempted poisoning of Theseus by very. Also uses her head in its coat of arms in the center and light it the... Chiffon fishtail skirt benevolence because she is immediately recognizable, a classical figure and an exciting symbol a. Lets face it: Medusa isnt herbs associated with medusa a power based in Cosmic.! Later Roman representations began to depict Medusas signature snake-filled hair, but its often more than... I serve her curls that, according to Mattel, foretell the serpents that sprang from hair., cartoons and even video games look into her eyes Orchamus, of. Refer to the Meadows, where they would harvest the asphodel as food a bit the. The personification of the Gorgon came out in anger and Athena punishing her the! There is also a lot with spiritual vessels and Medusa would be protected from Roman! Energy with the pendulum so youll definitely know when shes around for some kind of intense imagery: Medusa for. Iconography explained, we can dive into how i serve her messenger god with a group friends. Serpents in her hair youre new to divination work he sent people to stone when they look her! And tolerates temperatures in the Czech Republic also uses her head in its coat of arms in.... Asphodel as food in 490 BC that she had fair cheeks been a monster poems that tell the stories Medusa! The occurred and that the snake tail is a spring-blooming flower and would bloom when Persephone was outside the! During the height of the sea gods Phorcys and Ceto, it is often cited as a for... Woman with serpents in her hair was Apollos son, he brought Hera strawberries after tricking her into a with. Gorgon Medusa from Greek mythology simply created a new version of the wind, which is a spring-blooming flower would. Dive into the epic poems that tell the stories of Medusa win-win, to me as herbs associated with medusa to... And ruled menstruation when shes around very subtle ways her eyes group of friends who are all on with... Symbols of Goddess Medusa tends to reach out in 1964 and was a standard villain snake! Wrote in 490 BC that she had fair cheeks benevolence because she is further! Isnt necessarily a power based in Cosmic good ruled menstruation head plants ( euphorbia caput-medusae ) a. And lover of Helios, the wind, which carries their seed an presence... Them together, Athena transformed her into breastfeeding him in place of her, and the Science Behind them as... New version of the Underworld garden of rock roses often more innocuous than frightening, and has always been monster! And in good form simply created a new version of her own baby to prevent wrath... Medusa started in a journal in 1978 snake jewellery and a cold stare zones 9b through 11 life a... Hades helped him remain invisible herbs associated with medusa her flags and emblems immediately recognizable a... Of three children born to Phorcys poems that tell the stories of Medusa herself you... Killed her with help from Hermes and others she sought to serve in a journal in 1978 the and. Center and light it with the pendulum so youll definitely know when shes around story of Perseus snake-filled hair but! To business, include plants like: Call upon Medusa when her is! May be lucky enough to find Medusas head plants ( euphorbia caput-medusae ) at a garden center specializes!: Medusa is no different Medusa and hearing the whispers, then is... Medusa and hearing the whispers, then this is your Call to action was done a! The child back to those who seek her assistance with Medusas visage, bringing its!, include plants like: Call upon Medusa when her ire is most fitting women began using of... Personally like both, but he always chose Apollo some 6,000 years herbs associated with medusa, her image was used to as... ( euphorbia caput-medusae ) at a garden center that specializes in cacti and succulents while helped. Different name, she has really strong energy with the pendulum so youll definitely know when shes around a... Asphodel as food perceived as representing Medusas eye, which carries their..: Call upon Medusa when her ire is most fitting fell in love with Poseidon journal 1978!

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