In Greek mythology, Anatheia was one of three goddesses known as the Graces. Algaia was the goddess of grace and beauty. Paithea was the goddess of rest and relaxation. Antheia, the third goddess, was the goddess of flowers, blossoms, vegetation, and human love. She can be seen in Athenian vase paintings where she was depicted as one of Aphrodite’s attendants.
The three goddesses were also the servants of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. The daughter of Metis, the goddess of advice, and Zeus, the god of the sky and thunder., Antheia carried golden-colored symbols like honey and myrrh to represent her good qualities. She stood for trust, friendship, community, and love.
Recognition of Antheia
When the spring flowers bloom, people still come to a center on the island of Crete or a temple in Argos to honor her. A representative of marriage, she influenced the Greek people in two ways. Because she wore flowery wreaths, the Greek people took up the custom to honor her. She was also very humble, unlike many of the other gods. Her gentle ways and good example taught the people to be gentle and kind.
Since 800 B.C.E., Antheia has been celebrated as the Greek goddess of marriage. Represented by the rites of flowering, seeking a mate, and reaching perfections. Today, modern Greeks still ask her to bless their ceremonies by enriching their souls so they, too, might achieve spiritual perfection. In ancient Greece, a festival to honor friendship and trust was held every summer. The celebration, known as Arretophoria, still happens in June or July, and the Greek people sometimes leave out offerings of cake and ale for the nymphs and maidens.
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