Persephone: Greek Goddess of spring a source of inspiration
Myth of Persephone
According to Greek mythology Persephone is the daughter of Zeus and Demeter, goddess of the harvest.
Persephone was a beautiful young woman that everyone loved, even Hades, lord of the underworld, wanted her for himself. One day, when she was collecting flowers the earths’ plain suddenly opened and Hades rose up from the gap and abducted her. Only Zeus and Helios, the all-seeing sun, had noticed.
Demeter wandered the earth, looking for her daughter, until Helios revealed her fate. Broken-hearted Demeter withdrew herself in her loneliness, and the earths’ bounty ceased.
Zeus sent Hermes down to demand that Hades release Persephone. Hades reluctantly agreed, but before she went back he gave her a pomegranate. Eating it bound her to the underworld forever, staying there one-third of the year, and the other months with her mother. Henceforth when Persephone is with Hades, Demeter refuses to let anything grow and winter begins. Her return above ground brings renewal and the sprouting seeds of springtime. In Greek mythology she is the Queen of the Underworld, as well as the Maiden, symbol of rebirth Goddess of Spring.
Power of Myth
I have always been intrigued by myths, and stories that have been passed down over many generations. I believe that they have a special energy and power to them. They speak to us not only in words but also on a cellular level; you feel the story in your body, communicating in metaphor.
Persephone’s myth is a very powerful one that resonates within all of us in a very profound way. An innocent young maiden abducted by Hades lord of the underworld. She was reunited on earth by the determination of her loving mother Demeter. Persephones’ myth illuminates our lives with the torch of insight; the cycles of change, death and rebirth, transformation, healing our wounds, making choices and having the courage to forge ahead.
