In Greek mythology, hestia is the sacred goddess of fire who was highly respected by gods and mortals.
She is among the 12 gods of Olympus, the main ones of the Greek pantheon and who resided there. She is often replaced by Dionysus and in Roman mythology she is called Vesta.
Symbology
The symbology of fire attributed to her figure is closely related to the flame in the fireplaces that heat homes and temples. The fire of Hestia also symbolizes life, the city, protection and sacrifice.
She was considered the sweetest goddess of all and the art of building houses is attributed to her and, therefore, she is also the goddess of architecture.
With the symbol of a fireplace flame, Hestia was adored by the Greeks as she represented protection.
Thus, in the history of the founding of Greek cities, it was common for people to light a large fire in honor of the goddess. This was done so that she would protect the city from possible misfortunes.
Considered a protective goddess who lit and warmed through her fire, Hestia is also appointed as a goddess of home, family and city.
Legend
Hestia is one of six children of Rhea and Kronos who was swallowed by their father at birth.
She never left Olympus and promised to die a virgin, although she was proposed by Poseidon and Apollo.
On one occasion, Priapo tried to seduce her, but he was unsuccessful. At that moment, he approached the goddess while she slept, but Hellespont made a noise and alerted her.
As she never left Olympus, she also never participated in any fight between the gods. Grateful for your loyalty, Zeus, her brother, offered her the first public sacrifice. This was an acknowledgment that she had protected Olympus.
Hestia was widely worshiped in Greek cities and therefore each displayed an altar in her honor. Her temple architecture was circular in shape, a way to protect devotees.
Other Greek Goddesses
goddess hera
Ivy she is the Greek goddess protector of women, marriage and fertility. She was the daughter of Cronos and Rhea and was married to Zeus, being a constant victim of Zeus' infidelity.
goddess aphrodite
Daughter of Zeus and Dione, aphrodite she is the goddess of beauty, love, pleasure and procreation. In Roman mythology she is called Venus.
goddess artemis
Artemis she is the Greek goddess of the moon, chastity, hunting and wild animals. She was the twin sister of Apollo and is the daughter of Zeus and Hera. She is worshiped for protecting children, young people and freeing women from feminine misfortunes.
goddess athena
Athena to the Greeks and Minerva to the Romans, she is the goddess of war and wisdom. Protect heroes and defend cities. She is also considered the goddess of crafts, sculpture, pottery and weaving.
read more:
- What is a myth?
- Greek mythology
- Greek gods
- greek goddesses
- Roman Mythology
- Roman gods
