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Praise Aphrodite for dormmates that I connect with so well 😭😭

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I made a pocket altar for Aphrodite the other day!! I love how it turned out, I should do one for Apollon too.

I’m going to decorate it on the outside too, maybe I’ll put a ribbon or some flowers <33

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I like the idea of Eros being a primordial deity rather than being Aphrodite's son because Love doesn't always mean Pleasure, and Pleasure can exist without Love.

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Menstruation and miasma

my personal opinion

I’ve heard of people claiming that menstruation is miasmic and that people can’t pray/leave offerings whilst they are bleeding. Although it is true that in Ancient Greece blood was seen as miasmic and polluting, it does not necessarily mean that people should abstain from rituals/practice.

Some Ancient sources suggest that menstruation was viewed as impure. For example, ‘Inner purity and purification in ancient Greece’ mentions the following inscription from a sanctuary of Lady Athena giving instructions on when a person was considered ‘pure’: ‘after menstruation, after the woman has cleaned herself’. One must also take into account the medical beliefs at the time, namely Hippocrates’ theory of the four humours. One of these is blood, and sources suggest that menstruation was viewed as expelling ‘impure’ blood from the body, which could explain why menstruation was viewed as miasmic. Also, we must remember the patriarchal and misogynistic society at the time. I find it incredibly ironic that despite worshipping Goddesses, mortal women were treated as second class citizens in most areas.

The menstrual cycle is linked to the lunar cycle and in my opinion is a cosmic force. Working with Goddess such as Lady Selene, for example, during ovulation or menstruation connects us more to her as our bodily cycles reflect the lunar cycle. Another example is working with Lady Aphrodite during ovulation to explore our sexual energy and confidence.

My definition of miasma: something that would make us impure before the theoi. For example, you wouldn’t want to appear before the Gods spiritually or physically dirty, would you? Khernips cleanes us spiritually, and cleaning our hands/face/bathing is simply respectful before them. But also distractions that we face as mortals are miasmic and unfortunately reflective of the human condition.

Personally, I really struggle with my periods both physically and emotionally as I have pmdd and am awaiting tests for endometriosis. I’m on three medications for my periods, one of which I am on constantly and the other two which I take during my actual menstruation. I am bed bound during my periods and often hallucinate due to pain. So on days when I’m in a lot of physical pain and/or mental pain, I would personally choose not to pray because the pain distracts me too much to devote my full attention to the Theoi. As much as I desire for them to be my top priority, sometimes I am in too much pain for them to be. I personally think the Theoi would rather have me prioritise my rest for a few days and continue my practice when I feel better, as opposed to pushing myself into even more discomfort and not necessarily being able to pray properly.

TLDR: menstruation itself is NOT directly miasmic, however for some people who deal with extreme pain, I would personally recommend abstaining from prayer or strenuous rituals unless/until you feel capable.

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I don't think King Poseidon and Queen Amphitrite would appreciate people polluting their waters just to make an AI image of them 🤗

I personally believe that mine turned out better idk about y'all 💅💅💅

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Persephone did not consent to the marriage to Hades.

The point of the myth of Persephone and Hades is that Hades, death, tore a mother's child away, Persephone, and left her in grief, Demeter. Yes, Persephone and Hades love each other. No, that does not mean Persephone went willingly to Hades. That erases the entire point of the story. You are not making it feminist by erasing the fact that Persephone was kidnapped. Full stop.

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Omgs happy Aphrodisia!! I wish I could celebrate but I'll pass it on for those that do

happy aphrodisia everyone!!! i hope

you had the lovely day you deserve <3

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Good night, Aphrodite! May your sweet embrace meet me tomorrow. I invite you to feast with me during the morning's breakfast 😊

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Digitale offerande voor dame Aphrodite @khaire-traveler

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You’ll never guess what I did…

ANOTHER DIGITAL OFFERING!!! This one for lovely Aphrodite! These genuinely bring me so much joy to make :D

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I haven't been able to worship. I feel empty when I try. What is going on?

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“Give Aphrodite a red candle!” “Give her a blue candle!” Give her a candle of your favorite color. Tell her why you love it so much; is it just comforting or does it symbolize something to you? When you see that candle you’ll think “aw I love that color!” That’s literally what some of her epithets personify her as, that feeling of love and warmth! Just an idea idk 🤷‍♀️

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Anger is a gift

O' determined Aphrodite. O' mighty Ares. I pray to you, consorts in burning passion. With gratitude I preach your reminder of How much dormant self-worth and hurt pride Reside in vitriolic anger. May your presence teach me how to harness it, How not to spiral in its thorny whirlwind And choose when to release its poison. This I pray, as your humble worshipper. Blessed are your names, Aphrodite Areia and Lord Ares, Olympian bringers of retribution!

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she's not just romantic love.

she's the mother who nurtures the young.

she's the love two friends have, who have survived so much together.

she's the host in the house who offers wine to the guest as she hears about his stories.

she's a mother's rage when she sees her child hurt.

she's the passion and love for bloodshed.

she's not just lipgloss and pink and coquette. she's love and passion itself.

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Ἀφροδίτη, βασίλεια κάλλους, θεὰ ἔρωτος καὶ πολέμου

Aphrodite, Queen of Beauty and Goddess of Love.

She is the goddess of Love, Beauty, Fertility, Pleasure, Sexuality, Marriage, Sea and Maritime Protection Harmony, War, Victory, Healing, Transformation, Nature, Creation and Mysticism.

Her symbols are Doves, Sparrows, Swans, Roses, Myrtle, Seashells, Pearls, Mirrors, Girdles or Belts, Apples, Swan Chariots, Eros' Arrows, Planet Venus, Foam of the Sea and Golden Light.

Notable sites of Worship

In Cyprus, Paphos was home to one of her most ancient and famous sanctuaries, possibly linked to her birthplace. Amathus was the centre for the worship of Aphrodite in her fertility aspects, and Kouklia was another site with strong ties to her cult and ancient rituals.

The island of Cythera was considered her mythological birthplace and housed sacred spaces dedicated to her.

Corinth was renowned for its temple of Aphrodite and the practice of sacred prostitution as part of her worship.

In Athens there were the Acropolis Temples dedicated to Aphrodite Pandemos and Aphrodite Ourania, as well as the Demosion Sema, the public cemetery, which honoured her as a goddess of civic harmony.

Sparta venerated Aphrodite Areia as a protector in battle.

The island of Delos featured a sanctuary dedicated to Aphrodite, alongside other major deities.

Thebes was important for the worship of Aphrodite, particularly in connection with her role in love and beauty.

Mount Eryx was an essential sanctuary for Aphrodite in her role as a fertility goddess.

Aphrodisias was a city named after her, with a grand temple dedicated to her worship.

In Magna Graecia, then later as Venus in Rome, her worship continued and merged with Roman cultural practices.

Epithets

Aphrodite Ourania, Representing spiritual and celestial love.

Aphrodite Pandemos, Goddess of common, earthly love and civic unity.

Aphrodite Philommeides, “Laughter-loving,” associated with joy and charm.

Aphrodite Kallipygos, “Of the beautiful buttocks,” celebrating physical beauty.

Aphrodite Genetrix, “Mother,” emphasizing fertility and motherhood.

Aphrodite Praxis, Associated with the practical aspects of love and relationships.

Aphrodite Epistrophia, “She who turns to love,” guiding affection and attraction.

Aphrodite Anadyomene, “Rising from the sea,” reflecting her birth.

Aphrodite Pontia, “Of the sea,” protector of sailors and maritime journeys.

Aphrodite Euploia, “Of smooth sailing,” ensuring safe sea travel.

Aphrodite Areia, “The Warlike,” associated with war and protection.

Aphrodite Nikephoros, “Bringer of victory,” tied to success and triumph.

Aphrodite Androphonos, “Killer of men,” highlighting her paradoxical role in love and destruction.

Aphrodite Antheia, “Flower goddess,” linked to blooming nature and gardens.

Aphrodite Melainis, “Black Aphrodite,” associated with the chthonic or underworld aspects.

Aphrodite Ambologera, “Delayer of old age,” granting beauty and youth.

Aphrodite Peitho, “Persuasion,” influencing harmony in relationships.

Aphrodite Limenia, “Of the harbor,” ensuring safety in ports and harbors.

Aphrodite Areia Pandemos, Civic love linked with wartime unity.

Aphrodite Morphou, “Shaper of form,” tied to transformation and beauty.

Aphrodite Urania Kourotrophos, “Heavenly nurse of youth,” nurturing life and vitality.

Worship and Practices

Rituals included offerings of flowers, incense and perfumes as well as libations and the sacrifice of animals such as doves and goats.

The Aphrodisia festival was celebrated annually in many Greek cities, particularly in Cyprus, involving rituals of purification, processions, and sacrifices.

The practice of sacred prostitution, particularly in places like Corinth, was a controversial yet integral aspect of her worship in some areas, symbolizing devotion and fertility.

Modern Practices

Personal altars are adorned with symbols of Aphrodite such as seashells, roses, mirrors, and candles in colours like pink, red, or seafoam green, serving as sacred spaces for prayer and offerings.

Common offerings include flowers (especially roses), perfumes, honey, milk, wine, and items symbolizing beauty or love, such as jewelry or makeup.

Practicing also involves meditating on her attributes and visualizing her presence to foster a deeper connection.

Worship often takes place near bodies of water, such as beaches or rivers, to honor her connection to the sea. Gardens and flower-filled spaces are also favored. Devotees also set up altars in private, serene locations within their homes.

Many worshippers focus on Aphrodite's role in fostering self-love, confidence, and personal empowerment. Modern worship also emphasises Aphrodite's acceptance of all genders, sexualities, and identities, reflecting her universal appeal. Devotees may also honor her through artistic expressions, such as painting, poetry, or dance, celebrating beauty and creativity.

Aphrodisia

The Aphrodisia festival is typically celebrated during the ancient Greek month of Hekatombaion, which corresponds to July and August in the Gregorian calendar. However, the exact dates can vary among practitioners:

Some choose specific days, such as July 13-15 or July 27-30, based on historical references. Others align the festival with the lunar calendar, celebrating it on the fourth day of Hekatombaion, which is sacred to Aphrodite.

Cleansing rituals are performed to prepare sacred spaces, often using water, incense, and/or symbolic items like rose petals.

Devotees present flowers, perfumes, honey, wine, and other items associated with Aphrodite. Unique offerings like phallic-shaped bread or salt may also be included, echoing ancient Cypriot practices.

Statues or representations of Aphrodite are carried in processions, accompanied by hymns and prayers.

Celebrations often include communal meals, fostering unity and joy.

Artistic expressions such as poetry, music, and dance dedicated to Aphrodite are common, emphasizing creativity and beauty.

The Aphrodisia serves as a time to honour Aphrodite's domains of love, beauty, and fertility, while also promoting self-love and empowerment.

Personal Notes

Aphrodite is many things to me. She has been calling to me since at least 2008 and I, stupidly, did not recognise this until around August 2023. In my time working with her however, through meditation and personal prayer, I have come to see her as my main patron and guide.

She is a teacher and advisor, guiding me towards a self love that I never truly had, teaching me to be fine with how I am yet to improve as I wish because it's what I want for myself, as opposed to some vapid desire to be more attractive to others. She is patient, kind, loving (naturally) and honestly? She is the mother I never had, or rather, the mother I wish I had. She does not judge me for my preferences nor my appearance, she does not hold me to an impossible standard or see me as a failure. She sees me for who I am and, rather than finding me wanting, accepts me as I am and aids me in bettering myself for my own benefit and no one else's.

She also acts as a guardian, not just a guide. There have been many times lately I have felt overwhelmed emotionally and yet, simply following breathing exercises and focusing upon Her washes those worries and fears, the pain and doubt, all of it away with the feeling of a gentle hug and the sound of waves lapping the shores. She has also helped me learn to find confidence in myself and gather the determination to do what I must in life. To me, this is simply proof that no matter the refusal of her status, She remains a fierce warrior goddess.

It's certainly..interesting, being a man and worshipping Her. I don't think I have ever actually met or heard of another who does as, understandably, She typically attracts women to Her. I would like to say though that there's no shame at all for a man who does and anyone who says otherwise is deeply insecure about themselves in my no-longer-so-humble opinion.

Aphrodite is not just the Goddess of Romantic love; she is love in all its forms. She is a true Libra in that sense as she becomes what it is you need of Her. A mother, friend, guardian, protector, teacher or a mix of all the above and so much more.

Orphic Hymn to Aphrodite

Heav'nly, illustrious, laughter-loving queen,

sea-born, night-loving, of an awful mien;

Crafty, from whom necessity first came,

producing, nightly, all-connecting dame:

'Tis thine the world with harmony to join,

for all things spring from thee, O pow'r divine.

The triple Fates are rul'd by thy decree,

and all productions yield alike to thee:

Whate'er the heav'ns, encircling all contain,

earth fruit-producing, and the stormy main,

Thy sway confesses, and obeys thy nod,

awful attendant of the brumal God

Goddess of marriage, charming to the sight, mother of Loves

whom banquetings delight;

Source of persuasion secret, fav'ring queen,

illustrious born, apparent and unseen:

Spousal, lupercal, and to men inclin'd,

prolific, most-desir'd, life-giving., kind:

Great sceptre-bearer of the Gods,

'tis thine, mortals in necessary bands to join;

And ev'ry tribe of savage monsters dire

in magic chains to bind, thro' mad desire.

Come, Cyprus-born, and to my pray'r incline,

whether exalted in the heav'ns you shine,

Or pleas'd in Syria's temple to preside,

or o'er th' Egyptian plains thy car to guide,

Fashion'd of gold; and near its sacred flood,

fertile and fam'd to fix thy blest abode;

Or if rejoicing in the azure shores,

near where the sea with foaming billows roars,

The circling choirs of mortals, thy delight,

or beauteous nymphs, with eyes cerulean bright,

Pleas'd by the dusty banks renown'd of old,

to drive thy rapid, two-yok'd car of gold;

Or if in Cyprus with thy mother fair,

where married females praise thee ev'ry year,

And beauteous virgins in the chorus join,

Adonis pure to sing and thee divine;

Come, all-attractive to my pray'r inclin'd, for thee,

I call, with holy, reverent mind.

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i saw one for lord ares and lord apollon and i had to make one for lady aphrodite

(edit: i forgot to put her name, sorry)