Place of Origin: Greece
Origin Date: Ancient times
Domain: Moon, night, lunar cycles
Symbols: Crescent moon, chariot, horses, torch
Attributes: Radiance, serenity, lunar cycles, night
Epithets: Selene Mene
Equivalents: Luna (Roman mythology)
Religion: Greek mythology
Sacred Texts: References in "Theogony" by Hesiod
Iconography: Selene is often depicted as a beautiful woman with a crescent moon on her forehead, driving a chariot across the night sky. She is sometimes shown holding a torch, symbolizing her role in bringing light to the darkness.
Relations: Hyperion (father), Theia (mother), Helios (brother), Eos (sister), Endymion (lover)
Description
Selene is the ancient Greek goddess of the moon. She is known for her role in driving her chariot across the night sky, bringing light to the world. Selene is the daughter of the Titans Hyperion and Theia, and the sister of Helios (the Sun) and Eos (the Dawn). She is often depicted as a beautiful and radiant figure, symbolizing the gentle and serene nature of the moon. Selene's significance lies in her association with the lunar cycles and her influence over the night.
Narratives
The Birth of Selene
Selene is born to the Titans Hyperion and Theia. She is the sister of Helios (the Sun) and Eos (the Dawn). Her role as the moon goddess is established early on, and she is often depicted driving a chariot across the night sky.
Selene and Endymion
One of the most famous myths involving Selene is her love for the mortal Endymion. Selene falls deeply in love with Endymion, a shepherd, astronomer, or king, and visits him every night as he sleeps. Zeus grants Endymion eternal sleep so that he remains youthful forever, allowing Selene to gaze upon him for eternity.
Selene and Zeus
In some versions of the myth, Selene has an affair with Zeus, the king of the gods. From this union, she bears several children, including the Nemean Lion, which later becomes one of the labors of Heracles.
Selene and Pan
Another myth involves Selene and the god Pan. Pan, the god of the wild, falls in love with Selene and gives her the gift of a white horse or a pair of oxen to pull her moon chariot. In some versions, Pan seduces Selene by wrapping himself in a sheepskin to appear more attractive.
Selene and the Moon
Selene is often associated with the phases of the moon. She is depicted as a beautiful woman with a crescent moon on her forehead, driving a chariot across the night sky. Her role as the moon goddess is central to many myths, and she is often invoked in poetry and hymns. Selene's journey across the night sky in her chariot, drawn by two horses, represents the phases of the moon. Her waxing and waning symbolize the cyclical nature of time and the passage of months.
Worship Beliefs and Practices of Selene
Selene is a significant figure in Greek mythology, revered as the goddess and personification of the Moon. She is associated with the night, the lunar cycle, and the gentle light of the moon.
Core Beliefs
Goddess of the Moon: Selene is believed to be the goddess of the Moon, embodying its light and influence over the night sky. Her presence brings illumination and serenity to the world during the night.
Daughter of Titans: Selene is the daughter of the Titans Hyperion and Theia, making her a prominent figure in the celestial hierarchy. She is the sister of Helios (the Sun) and Eos (the Dawn), representing the daily cycle of celestial bodies.
Symbol of the Lunar Cycle: Selene is closely associated with the phases of the Moon, symbolizing the cyclical nature of time and the passage of months. Her role emphasizes the importance of the lunar cycle in ancient Greek culture and mythology.
Attributes and Significance
Depictions: Selene is often depicted as a beautiful and serene figure, sometimes shown driving a chariot across the night sky. Her chariot is typically drawn by two white horses, symbolizing the cool, reflective light of the Moon. She is also depicted with a crescent moon on her head and a billowing cloak.
Symbols: Common symbols associated with Selene include the crescent moon, the chariot, and the torch. These symbols are used in rituals and ceremonies to invoke her presence and blessings.
Cultural Hero: The stories and depictions of Selene are passed down through generations, maintaining their significance in Greek culture and mythology. She is a symbol of the serene beauty of the night sky and the passage of time marked by the phases of the Moon.
Practices of Worship
Rituals and Ceremonies: Devotees perform various rituals and ceremonies to honor Selene. These include offerings of food, drink, and other goods to seek her favor and protection. Rituals often take place at night or during the full moon to align with her connection to the lunar cycle.
Sacred Sites: Temples and shrines dedicated to Selene can be found throughout Greek regions. These sites are often adorned with statues and images of Selene, where devotees can offer prayers and make offerings.
Offerings: Offerings to Selene typically include food, drink, and items related to the Moon and night, such as silver and white flowers. These offerings symbolize gratitude and the desire for illumination and protection.
Festivals and Traditions
Cultural Celebrations: Selene's story may be included in cultural celebrations and festivals that honor Greek heritage and traditions. These gatherings often include music, dance, and storytelling.
Seasonal Observances: The themes of Selene's story, such as the lunar cycle and the night, may be reflected in seasonal observances and practices that align with the natural cycles of the environment.
Prayers: Devotees pray to Selene for protection, illumination, and the successful practice of their spiritual beliefs. Traditional prayers often invoke her role as the goddess of the Moon and the personification of the night.
Selene's role as the goddess of the Moon and the personification of the night embodies the core values and beliefs of Greek mythology, emphasizing the importance of the lunar cycle, serenity, and the interconnectedness of all living things.