What it's All About:
In this episode, I get into Mycenaean Paganism, more aptly described as Hellenism. Well, we will embark on some historical roots of this ancient spirituality, such as key deities and more which defined the Mycenaean people. I describe how today's practitioners are dusting off these ancient practices to bring a sense of community together and reinterpreting its traditions for modern spiritual needs.
Join me as we connect with the ancient past and, as such, the challenges which follow any attempt at reclaiming these practices now. Whether an expert in practice or an individual intrigued by this fascinating topic, there's something here for everyone!
Songs Featured:
Spirit Guide Background Music by Samuel F. Johanns from Pixabay
Meditation Background Music by Cookrate Eli from Pixabay
Links Mentioned:
Get in Touch Through Social Media:
Spirit Guide of the Week:
Despoena
Dream Symbol:
Defend
Desk
Diamond
Transcript:
(04:57)
Welcome to another episode of the Music from the Goddess’ Vault Podcast. I am your host, Midnight Starr. You just heard Magicfolk with Horses of Poseidon. Today, we’ll be exploring Mycenaean Paganism. But first, I have a couple of quick announcements to share. I’d love your input on which classic episode to revisit this November! You can cast your vote in the “Choose an Old Episode for November” poll, accessible in the show notes or by scanning the QR code on my blog or Substack page. After voting, I'd appreciate it if you could take a moment to fill out two questionnaires. The first focuses on exciting perks for my Patreon supporters—your feedback on potential rewards is invaluable! Just click the Patreon Perks link in the show notes. The second questionnaire is your chance to help shape future episodes of Music from the Goddess Vault. Share your ideas, especially on topics like Spirit Guides or dream symbols, by clicking the link in the show notes. I’m eager to hear your thoughts! You can also connect with me on social media (Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Blue Sky, Mastodon) or visit my blog at goddessvault1.wixsite.com. To stay updated on new episodes, subscribe for FREE at musicgoddessvault.substack.com. If you’d like to support the show further, consider a paid subscription for just $7 a month or $70 a year. Now for the topic: Mycenaean Paganism. While I’ve touched on Greek Paganism and Hellenism in previous shows, I want to explore this subject in greater depth today. But before we jump in, here’s a track for you: We Are the Witches by Crow Women.
(08:23)
So, who were the Mycenaeans? They were the very first Greeks, occupying the mainland from around 1600 to 1100 BC, long before the era of Classical Greece. The Mycenaeans built impressive fortifications and palaces. These structures were similar to those of their neighbors on the island of Crete, the Minoans, who were also their main trading partners. From this relationship, the Mycenaeans adopted the Linear B script, which is where the Greek language began to develop. This civilization is perhaps best known for the Trojan War. Most of you are likely familiar with that story, so I won’t delve into it too much. However, the question of whether the Trojan War was a myth or a historical event is still a topic of debate among scholars. The Mycenaean civilization eventually fell during the Bronze Age Collapse, partly due to invasions by a mysterious group known as the Sea Peoples. Following their decline, the Classical Greeks emerged, heavily influenced by the Mycenaeans. One notable outcome of this influence is Homer’s epic, “The Iliad.”
Now, let’s turn to some music with Gods on Fire by Korpiklaani.
(13:15)
We’re back in Greece to talk about the goddess Despoena, known as the mystery goddess or the spirit of fertility. Her name translates to “the Mistress.” Despoena’s myth begins during the time when Demeter was searching for her daughter, Persephone. In her quest, Demeter came to Arcadia, where she caught the eye of Poseidon. He transformed into a stallion and pursued her. Noticing this, Demeter turned herself into a mare, which ultimately backfired. Poseidon mounted her, resulting in the birth of two children: Arion, a horse, and Despoena, a goddess born in human form. From the moment of her birth, Despoena’s name was considered too sacred to be pronounced or revealed, except to those initiated into her mysteries. In Arcadia, she was worshiped alongside her mother and sister, and she was closely identified with Persephone, Artemis, and Hekate—all of whom shared the title “Despoine.” Not much else is known about her, but if you wish to honor Despoena on your altar, you can offer any fresh fruit, except for pomegranates. That is it for now. Stay tuned for another spirit guide of the week.
(18:58)
That was Mysteries by Spiral Rhythm. I’m going back into a topic I touched on in an earlier episode: Hellenism. This path encompasses a range of practices, from reconstructionist approaches to adaptations that blend with contemporary pagan traditions. So what is Hellenism, you might ask? Hellenism, also known as Hellenismos or Hellenic reconstruction, is rooted in ancient Greek culture. It's important to note that this path is incredibly diverse. Some practitioners may follow modern pagan rituals, like casting circles and calling the quarters, while others take a more traditional approach. For instance, while some practitioners engage in casting circles and calling the quarters, this isn’t a universal practice among all Hellenists. However, the concept of the four elements—fire, earth, air, and water—originates from ancient Greek thought and plays a significant role in many spiritual practices.
A key aspect of Hellenism is the relationship practitioners have with their deities. Unlike some belief systems where gods are viewed as distant or untouchable, Hellenists perceive their gods as integral parts of their daily lives. This personal connection fosters a vibrant and engaging spiritual experience. If you're curious to learn more about Hellenism, including its roots in Mycenaean Paganism, there’s a wealth of information available online. Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibes! Here’s Persephone’s Dance by Cloud the Pagan Rapper—let’s dive into the rhythm!
(24:31)
Here's another dream symbol to interpret. These are the three: Defend, Desk and Diamond.
Dreaming about defending yourself may indicate a deeper emotional pain that you're experiencing. If you have a dream where you are defending someone, it implies that you may be reflecting your own feelings and beliefs onto them. Dreaming about someone defending or supporting you represents your feelings of self-esteem. Desks in your dreams indicate that you are assessing and reflecting on your issues. Having a cluttered desk in your dream suggests that you need to prioritize and rearrange certain areas of your life.
Dreaming of a tidy desk implies that you should seek more effective ways to use your time.
Being at someone else's desk in a dream symbolizes a feeling of insecurity regarding your own abilities. Diamonds in dreams often represent the completeness of one's identity.
Dreaming of being given diamond jewelry symbolizes affection, loyalty, and devotion.
If you dream of losing diamond jewelry, it suggests challenges in your romantic relationship.
Dreaming of a fake diamond indicates that you may be attempting to present yourself as someone you aren't. And seeing a diamond shape in your dream represents the various paths available to you in life. If you want a dream symbol to interpret and maybe have a dream symbol featured, I will mention the contact information at the end of this show. So keep dreaming.
(30:30)
It's time for a nice, deep, and relaxing meditation. Before we begin, a quick reminder: if you're listening to this podcast while in a moving vehicle, please skip ahead. Up next is a meditation from Mookielaka, titled A Guided Meditation With Freakbait.
(39:19)
You just listened to Maiden of Mysteries and Sunfire by the Assembly of the Sacred Wheel, while before that, you enjoyed Diamonds and Rust from Blackmore’s Night. That wraps up this show for today! I’m your host, Midnight Starr, but don’t go just yet—I have some thrilling news to share! Do you want to help decide which classic episode returns in November? Join my 'Choose an Old Episode for November Poll'! You can easily find it in the show notes or on my blog or Substack page. I also have a couple of quick questionnaires for you. I’m working on some exciting rewards for our Patreon supporters, and your feedback would mean the world to me! Click on the 'Perks for the Show' link in the show notes to share your ideas. Additionally, I’d love to hear your thoughts on what topics you want to explore on Music from the Goddess Vault! Whether it’s Spirit Guides, dream symbols, or something else entirely, your suggestions are welcome. You can reach out via social media (Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Blue Sky, Mastodon) or check out my blog at goddessvault1.wixsite.com/home. Want to stay in the loop? Sign up for my newsletter at musicgoddessvault.substack.com for exclusive updates on new episodes. Be the first to hear about the latest shows—subscribe today! To close out this episode, let’s listen to Isis, Astarte by Jana Runnalls. Blessed be!
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