By contrast, a more comprehensive account of Perseus and Medusa can be found in Ovid’s Metamorphoses. Perseus was granted help by the gods including a reflecting tool. (2) All three are Goddesses of wisdom, protection, and healing. The Gorgon sisters were Sthenno, Euryale, and Medusa; Medusa … As a symbol, Medusa's head appears on some regional symbols. I love medusa, her story has two variations imo, 1 is that Athena made her a monster because she was raped, the allegory of the innocent victim is punished by society instead of embracing her . Medusa’s story of assault and then being hunted by men comes full circle in this statue – revenge. For starters, there’s the admiration of Perseus’ charming tale of heroism; you could attribute it to a symbol of protection. Read and study Medusa’s origins, her sea god mother and father and two sisters. From the nostalgic smell of a favorite childhood dessert to the way a song from a particular era in your life makes you feel — these are all potentially powerful elements in spell work. She defined the gorgoneion as a quintessentially European image. The five points of the star usually represent the elements, plus the spirit or self. In atheistic witchcraft, the fifth point may represent occult intelligence. Even in death Medusa can be seen as a symbol of good, as her head is used as a protective amulet to keep evil away. Find YOUR God And Goddess: PowerPoint Presentation. Perhaps the most well-known Medusa myth involves Perseus and Medusa’s death. used to create a positive identity for those who didn’t know him. But if you need some ideas to get started working with the goddess Medusa, here’s 7 ways: The best way to start getting to know a deity is to read about them. The head refers to Greek mythology, it is said to be Medusa, a gorgon (monstrous creature) with a head of snakes, a beautiful woman seducing men who, upon looking at her, were turned into stone. The stories about Medusa often overlook how she was respected as a symbol of protection. Below are the 9 most powerful protection symbols in witchcraft (in our opinion anyway). A few months ago, a close friend of mine and I began trying to approach Medusa. Medusa was originally a ravishingly beautiful maiden , a virgin in fact. The Legend of Medusa and Perseus . Symbolically, people saw her as a threat and a hideous monstrosity from which they were afraid. Study the myth of Medusa, paying close attention to Poseidon’s assault on Medusa and Medusa’s death by Perseus’ hand. Medusa has also been featured in novels, movies and TV shows. The Medusa image has been described as: ... A symbol of fecal fertility. As Medusa is the snake goddess, she embodies Kundalini. In this myth, Medusa is less of a character in her own right and more a symbol of achieving impossible tasks. Pegasus is instinct, wisdom, imagination, life force, and intuitive understanding. Medusa was born to two sea deities Keto and Phorkys, along with her sisters Stheno and Euryale. Record these thoughts in your grimoire (or whatever you use to write down spells and occult related thoughts), and consider adding these things to your spells to make them more personal, and therefore more powerful. Protection Magic: Symbols and Correspondences, No, Tarot isn’t a ‘Closed Practice’ but you should still learn the history, Witchcraft’s Gatekeeping Problem and the Importance of Resisting Misinformation. Medusa has become an ubiquitous symbol of female empowerment and for good reason. When she rejected his advances, he assaults her and takes what he wants anyway. Meaning and symbols of Ancient Greek God Dionysus; Labyrinth Meaning and Origin Story; The Minotaur in Greek Mythology; The Head of Medusa. When circles are cast, in high magic, the pentacle is often represented within the circle. Medusa was once a powerful feminine symbol, with control over the natural cycle and in harmony with the worlds of earth and sky. It is highly intriguing to try and work with this entity!! Consider the myth of Medusa in a different light: yes, Medusa was raped by Poseidon. Another example is the coat of arms of Dohalice village in the Czech Republic . (NOT a Reading), Anubis: Egyptian God of the Dead: 12 Ways to Work With Him, Rhiannon Goddess: 14 Ways to Work With the Goddess of Horses, How to Use Tarot to Work With Gods and Goddesses. After seeing the Versace symbol for the first time, mythologists took a closer look at the young designer’s collection. The Algiz rune is often used as a symbol of protection by witches who follow various Norse spiritual paths. Jessica Heeringa: Using astrology to locate missing woman’s body. Medusa was one of the three Gorgon sisters.It was not a beautiful woman but a petrifying monster.Nothing good nothing sweet about her.Ancient Greek warriors used her as an emblem on their shields to terrifie enemies.It was an intimidation and protection symbol. Medusa’s name derives from an ancient Greek verb that means “to protect and guard,” which may be a nod to Athena’s attempt to guard and protect Medusa from further abuse at the hands of Poseidon and other men. Famous artists that have been inspired by Medusa and the heroic Perseus story include Leonardo da Vinci, Benvenuto Cellini, Peter Paul Rubens, Gialorenzo Bernini, Pablo Picasso, Auguste Rodin, and Salvador Dali. The image of Medusa was thought to be protective. In the sacred temple of Athena, Medusa was raped, and the enraged goddess transformed Medusa into a Gorgon - a monster with snakes for hair. In the past, it was customary to place a trinacria behind the home’s door as a symbol of protection for the house - the Medusa would have turned to stone whoever wanted to hurt the family living inside. These pieces are thought to be protection against enemies and bad energy. Echinacea is a popular supplement for boosting immune systems, so it’s a powerful herb to incorporate in healing and protection spells pertaining to sickness and physical wellbeing. He violates Medusa in one of Athena’s temples and because of this, Athena “punishes” Medusa by turning her into a monster. The Modern Mythology pendant collection is inspired by ancient Greek legends, the Iliad and the Odyssey.Each piece is made from ethically-sourced 18k gold and silver, sprinkled with precious natural gems. For starters, there’s the admiration of Perseus’ charming tale of heroism; you could attribute it to a symbol of protection. Medusa on a shield denoting protection Possibly the most common symbol in pagan spirituality, the pentacle is most often worn for protection. Black candles are useful in protection spells (it’s a myth that they’re used for “evil” or “black” magic). Medusa, Symbol of Protection & Feminist Icon. To use Algiz for protection in your daily practice, you can wear the symbol in jewelry or incorporate it into sigils. If you meditate, you can experiment with chanting the translated sound of the Algiz rune, which sounds a bit like “all-wheeze.”. Deeper Meanings Many explanations of the origins or deeper meaning of Medusa have been suggested over the years, some fairly farfetched, all interesting. Stand up for women’s rights in whatever way you can and invoke the fierce, protective energy of Medusa the goddess. We’ve included a video of how to draw each symbol and a discussion at the end about how to best work with these symbols in your magical practice! The following article will list some of those correspondences, which will better inform you for when it comes to casting your own protection and security spells. The logo was refined again in 2008, with the wordmark enlarged and placed horizontally under the rounded emblem. If the story of Medusa inspires you to smash the patriarchy as much as it does me, look up the article Christobel Hastings wrote about Medusa for @vice. Somehow Medusa, a symbol of growth and generation that dies so that from death may come life, became a symbol of fear, for to look directly upon the divine is to face a terrifying reality. Worth noting is that the Medusa in antiquity was also a symbol of the Other. Basically, Medusa is the character in Greek mythology. She is not a separate being. In a more modern sense, her image can be used as a warning to keep others at a distance. The Greek “hero” Perseus is sent to take Medusa’s head in order to save his mother from marrying a selfish, evil king. My previous take on her from 2018: Medusa has inspired art for centuries, whether as a symbol of protection or a monster. Medousa (Oudgrieks: Μέδουσα) of Medusa (gelatiniseerd) is een monsterlijke chtonische figuur uit de Griekse mythologie.Medusa is de dochter van Phorcys en Ceto en is de bekendste van de drie Gorgonen.. Medusa had ooit een bijzondere schoonheid. Countless relics from Ancient Greece depict the image of the snake-haired Medusa as a symbol of protection. Possibly the most common symbol in pagan spirituality, the pentacle is most often worn for protection. What if Athena’s curse on Medusa wasn’t a punishment at all, but an act of kindness and protection? The head refers to Greek mythology, it is said to be Medusa, a gorgon (monstrous creature) with a head of snakes, a beautiful woman seducing men who, upon looking at her, were turned into stone. That's why Medusa's image would go on to be a symbol of protection for women throughout ancient Greece. If you do not personally connect with traditional symbolism, herb lore or crystals — then use what does connect with you. As an ancient protection symbol, the Medusa in this way also symbolizes aspects of the mother goddess, especially as a child of Gaia, the creator. The history of this spiritual symbol is rich and interesting. This symbol, Gorgonian– if I’m spelling correctly, was a symbol of protection with dark/vengeful connotations. Medusa tattoos are interesting inking that ancient mythology inspires. Set up and dedicate altar space for Medusa Goddess. A common kitchen seasoning and garden herb, basil is an ideal addition to any kitchen witch’s collection — and a must if you’re cooking up a protection spell. It can be seen on shields, doorways, art, and beside depictions of Athena in art. It is highly intriguing to try and work with this entity!! A statue was erected in Manhattan outside of the courthouse where Weinstein was brought to stand trial for numerous acts of assault against women. According to Marija Gimbutas, gorgoneia represent certain aspects of the Mother Goddess cult associated with "dynamic life energy" and asserts that the images may be related to a cultural continuity persisting since Neolithic examples. It is not for nothing that Versace is the brand it is today: every collection from this fantastic designer carried a vestige of mystery and fable, and it would get you dangerously close to some inconceivable secret. Gorgons, especially Medusa, have become a common image and symbol in Western culture since their origins in Greek mythology, appearing in art, literature, and elsewhere throughout history. Medusa was a loyal woman who spent her youth training to become a priestess to a goddess she worshiped and believed was the strongest of all the Olympians. But did Athena really curse Medusa OR did she try to help Medusa? Medusa is a sea spirit at her core. Candles, incense, offering bowls, stones, and cups are appropriate. Snake figurines, artwork, and snake sheds make great offerings that can stay on the gorgon’s altar. Seashells, driftwood, and sand honor her sea roots. But Medusa was already a symbol of female power in her ability to use the male gaze against ... A Medusa in the spirit of #MeToo would have engaged her powers of self-protection … Medusa's head as a symbol of horror was classically worn upon her dress by the virgin goddess Athena. Lighting the candle during a protection spell metaphorically burns the negativity away. Add a picture or representation of Medusa as the focal point. Even if you order a metal Medusa talisman, it is meant for regular recharging with protection spells. She may have first been a goddess to the Berber culture brought to Greece later on. Her The full myth of Perseus and Medusa begins years before they battled. There are varying origin stories for Medusa, but the ancient poet, Ovid, tells us that she was once a beautiful mortal woman and a priestess of Athena. She gladly lends her energy to defend abused, battered, or assaulted women and children. Medusa Goddess of Snakes began as a beautiful, mortal woman who was sought after by the sea god Poseidon. Medusa’s image is put on doorways to scare off predators and thieves. Athena saw it as: Medusa was the target to blame, since she was so beautiful and attention-grabbing. Medusa is serpent energy, enlivening, terrifying, impersonal. The ouroboros is a symbol of eternity and continual renewal of life.. But Poseidon - the God of the Sea ...raped her in Athena's - the goddess of law's temple, the enraged Athena blames Merdusa's beauty for Poseidon raping her and transformed Medusa to....what we know as today. One example is the flag and insignia of Sicily and the three-legged tenesia. The best way to start getting to know a deity is to read about … Various herbs possess protective qualities when used in spell work and meditation. Magical Ancestor Origins Profile: Find MAGICK in Your Family History!!! The globe at the bottom represents that he portrays himself as the ruler of the entire earth, the conquer of all. Perseus was the son of Danae, daughter of Acrisius the King of Argos, and Zeus.The god had impregnated the princess in the form of a shower of gold after her father had locked her away upon learning from an oracle that he would be killed by his grandson. We find references to Medusa as a symbol of protection in the Renaissance and French Revolution, for example. Because her head was placed on Athena’s shield (the Aegis) and her blood was revealed to hold the power of both life and death, Medusa’s As snakes shed their skin through sloughing, they are symbols of rebirth, transformation, immortality, and healing. Black is a color that absorbs all light, making it a powerful symbol for absorbing negativity. Of course, pretty much every crystal has some degree of protection attributed to it. Medusa tattoos are interesting inking that ancient mythology inspires. The drops of her blood gave birth to Chrysaor, a giant armed with a golden blade, and a white equine Pegasus. Symbol. Echinacea is another useful herb for protection, both symbolically and materially. According to Hesiod's Theogony, the Gorgons were the sisters of the Graiai and lived in the utmost place towards the night by the Hesperides beyond Oceanus.Later authors such as Herodotus and Pausanias place the Gorgons' abode in Libya. Kundalini is the cord of energy inside of us, rising up our spines, tying the chakras together. Justice. Basically, Medusa is the character in Greek mythology. Cinnamon is another commonly used herb used for protection, and due to its fiery nature it is often chosen when you want fast results. Medusa was one of three sisters born to Phorcys and Ceto known as the Gorgons. Medusa was one of the three Gorgon sisters.It was not a beautiful woman but a petrifying monster.Nothing good nothing sweet about her.Ancient Greek warriors used her as an emblem on their shields to terrifie enemies.It was an intimidation and protection symbol. This is called Kundalini rising. Medusa is an instantly recognizable figure from ancient Greek art. As already mentioned the Medusa’s face was meant to be a symbol that could instantly incite the horror of the viewer. She is the mythical creature and one of the three Gorgons. In A Tale of Two Cities , for example, Charles Dickens compares the exploitative French aristocracy to "the Gorgon" — he devotes an entire chapter to this extended metaphor. Athena likes to restore balance as in the Illiad/Odyssey, not punish victims. Medusa’s head or just her eyes were a popular decoration found on cups and vases used for wine drinking in symposia. Medusa’s blood becomes coral, therefore coral is also an acceptable offering. Medusa is good for protection and you should dare to summon her from time to time. Though, the meaning behind this design can greatly vary. Medusa then in her sad death fulfills the terms of her oath– to protect Athena. The inclusion of Medusa in the center implies the protection of the goddess Athena, who wore the Gorgon's likeness on her aegis, as said above. Medusa is the goddess of snakes. Oracle Card Reading VIDEO (One Question: 5 Cards), Magical Advice: 1 Question Answered by a Real Witch! The story is about strength and perseverance against all odds. The history of this spiritual symbol is rich and interesting. Like most half-man, half-animal beings, she was the Other as found in nature. Even if you order a metal Medusa talisman, it is meant for regular recharging with protection spells. It is believed that when Medusa was killed, she was pregnant by Poseidon. Incorporating simple crossed spears (or swords or staffs) in any of your written spells or candle carvings adds an extra protective touch to your spell work. As mentioned above, Athena wears the image of a Gorgon on her shield. If the right meanings are used, the Medusa tattoo is a great image if you want to represent feminism in a new way. Read & Study Medusa’s Myths. Protective magick is probably the most basic of all types of spellwork. Just like the second theme, he had to face so many harsh conditions throughout the whole journey, but instead of giving up and backing down, he decided to … Athena “curses” Medusa with snakes for hair and a face so terrifying that anyone who sees it turns to stone. Snake figurines or images are also appropriate. Medusa on Athena’s shield in the Parthenon replica in Nashville, TN; Medusa on Athena’s breastplate in the Parthenon replica in Nashville, TN; The Gorgoneion is a powerful item. On a chariot-pole finial from 1st-2nd century Rome, Medusa is almost angelic with her flowing hair (and a pair of snakes peeking through her … So in the end, everyone decides by themselves, whether the power of Medusa is a gift or a curse. The constant transformation of Medusa has made her a symbol of change that one leads to another. The practice was so widespread that it is seen on the famous mural that depicts Alexander the Great’s battle against the Persians. If you do not recharge your Medusa talisman, I doubt that you will have strong protection in the long run. According to Hesiod, Medusa was pregnant with the progeny of Poseidon. Fact 11: The severed head of Medusa was often seen to be a symbol of protection. This is symbolic of women standing against their abusers. It is the life inside our bodies and connects us to the earth and the divine. Heracles (Hercules) is said to have obtained a lock of Medusa’s hair (which possessed the same powers as the head) from Athena and given it to Sterope, the daughter of Cepheus, as a protection for the town of Tegea against attack; when exposed to view, the lock was supposed to bring on a storm, which put the enemy to flight. Every sale helps an animal in need through Common Era's charity commitment. Mountain range connects us to the earth and sky but did Athena really curse Medusa did! Oracle Card Reading VIDEO ( one Question: 5 Cards ), magical Advice: 1 Answered. 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