Aphrodite: Connecting With Beauty And Love

If you are fond of Greek mythology, then probably you’ve heard about the Goddess Aphrodite, the golden one. She was not only a Goddess people just mentioned in tales, she was considered to be an archetypal representation of every woman, and of certain feminine aspects that everybody can have or experience.

I want to mention some of the most well-known descriptions about her, her general associations, and her history. If you have a vague idea of what it is that she represented, then keep reading and you’ll find the most important aspects in this article. I also want to share how we can connect with her, and find ourselves more self-aware, hopefully experiencing and enjoying what life gives us, through a different perspective.

Origins

She was the ancient divine goddess of love, sex, beauty, desire, and seduction. She was born near Cyprus, out of the sea-foam of the coasts; she emerged from the ocean.

When represented in art she is “often identified with one or more of the following: a mirror, an apple, a myrtle wreath, a sacred bird or dove, and a flower. On occasion, she is also depicted riding a swan or goose”, as mentioned by Mark Cartwright.

She grants these gifts to mortals and to the earth. The Goddess’ Roman equivalent was the goddess Venus. She was highly loved and revered throughout all of ancient Greece and the Mediterranean ancient world.

Very specific rites were performed by women in her honor and she even had special temples where she was worshipped.

Depicted in Art

Aphrodite has been depicted in art for a long time and she has inspired many artists, men, and women. One example is her representation in paintings. The most famous one being The Birth of Venus by Sandro Botticelli.

This painting was created between 1485–1486. It has been suggested that the Medici family, specifically by Lorenzo di Pierfrancesco de’ Medici (1463–1503) commissioned the painter to create the masterpiece.

The painting depicts Venus or Aphrodite, emerging from the ocean waves, being received by one of the Three Graces with a dress to cover her up. And on the left side of the painting, we can see two winged beings, blowing air at her.

Adoration

To this day, there are still many people all around the world who worship the Goddess and even create beautiful altars in her honor. Some of the items that they add to it are roses, quartz, crystals, perfumes, jewelry, candles, fruit, make-up, mirrors, seashells, etc.

The idea is to remember and honor all of the aspects that the goddess has herself, and that she inspires in ourselves as well. It’s important to say that two of the colors that stand out the most in these altars are red & pink! Would you like to create one too?

Prayers

The prayers are an important part for the ones who adore the Goddess as well. People ask for her guidance and for all the lovely things that she can grant to them, such as beauty, love, passion, and inspiration; to name some of them.

“Oh, gracious Goddess, born beautifully of the sea, loving Aphrodite, hear my prayer. As I walk my path of life I listen for your guidance. I ask that you aid me in allowing my heart to navigate the waters, keeping Beauty as my sail and Love as my compass.”

Shrine to Venus: This sign greeted visitors to the Getty Villa in Los Angeles the summer of 2017 as part of Roman Holidays.

Prayes written by people in the Aphrodite altar.

Offerings to Aphrodite.

Without a doubt, this is one of the most beautiful representations of adoration that I have seen. People come together to honor the goddess of love, passion, and beauty. But I’m also interested in knowing what you think.

Do you think these practices are out of date? Would you attend one of these ceremonies and leave a written note with a prayer specially made for Venus or Aphrodite?

My personal answer is yes! Let me know yours in the comments.

Sources:

Getty | “Dear Venus”: Praying to an Ancient Goddess at the Getty Villa

World History Encyclopedia | Aphrodite

Wikipedia | Aphrodite