The concept of “FIDES” is frequently misinterpreted as ‘faith,’ which diverges from its original context in Roman thought. In the realm of ancient Rome, FIDES was considered a critical aspect of the character of individuals engaged in public life. It served as a vital foundation for both social and political interactions, encapsulating the notion of…
Life in ancient Egypt revolved around the annual flooding of the Nile, which significantly enhanced the fertility of the land. This fundamental relationship is reflected in the religious beliefs centered around the crocodile deity, Sobek. Although Sobek began as a local figure, his importance surged to new heights during the Middle Kingdom, impacting politics and…
Hestia, the goddess of the hearth, embodies the essence of domesticity and community. As the guardian of the home and the nurturing spirit behind the familial kitchen, she presided over the preparation of meals as well as the sacred flame of sacrifice. Hestia played a pivotal role in public and private life, being intimately connected…
Minerva of Arezzo, the Roman goddess, embodies wisdom, medicine, commerce, handicrafts, poetry, and the arts, with a later association to war. Her likeness to the Greek goddess Athena is notable, and she was a significant deity in ancient Rome, with vital temples dedicated to her and being a primary figure in the Quinquatrus festival. Initially,…
Goibniu Fundamentals Also referred to as Gaibhne, his name translates roughly to “Clever Smith,” pronounced in variations such as GIV-noo, GWIV-noo, or GIV-neh. Goibniu is celebrated in various oral traditions under names like Gobaun Seer and Goban Saor, the latter meaning “Goban the Builder,” along with Gavida Mac Samhthiann. He is found in the tales…
Imhotep, known by the Greek name Imouthes and active around 2667-2600 BCE, is celebrated as an influential Egyptian polymath and the architect behind the iconic Step Pyramid of King Djoser at Saqqara. His name translates to “He Who Comes in Peace,” and he stands out as one of the few Egyptians, alongside Amenhotep, to have…
Background Bodhbh Dearg, also known as Bov The Red, was the esteemed ruler of Sídh ar Feimhim, which is situated on Slievenamon in County Tipperary. He ascended to the throne as the King of the Tuatha Dé Danann after their defeat by the Gaelic tribes. Tales of Bodhbh Dearg Following Bodhbh Dearg’s election as King,…
Greek mythology encompasses a vast collection of stories regarding the deities, heroes, and rituals of ancient Greece, deeply rooted in Classical antiquity. Even though philosophers like Plato acknowledged the fictional aspects of these myths during the 5th and 4th centuries BCE, many Greeks regarded these narratives as truthful representations of their beliefs and traditions. The…
Aphrodite: The Goddess of Love and Beauty in Greek Mythology Aphrodite, known as the Olympian deity of love, beauty, and procreation, holds a significant position in ancient Greek mythology. Frequently depicted as an alluring woman, she is often shown alongside Eros, the god of love. Characteristic symbols associated with her include the dove, apple, mirror,…
The Janus Geminus, often interpreted as the embodiment of duality, housed an ancient bronze statue of the deity Janus, believed to have been established by Numa Pompilius, the second king of Rome, as recounted by Plutarch. According to Pliny the Elder, the sculpture featured fingers positioned to represent the 355 days of the year, while…