The Festival of Aphrodisia
What we can learn from the goddess of love
Written and illustrated by Filip Jawdosiuk, Contributing Graphics Team Member
The digital age has ushered in a new era of information. The once prestigious practices of philosophy and cultural analysis are free to whoever desires them. As these practices of old become more common, a revival of other hidden practices of the ancient past has occurred as well, emphasizing the growing collective interest in them.
The resurrection of old cultures in the world of modern paganism–or neopaganism–includes an emphasis on celebrating nature and varying practices rooted in witchcraft (Ryan, 1998). Expansive access to knowledge and fluidity of beliefs are some of the causes for a renewed fascination with ancient neopagan practices. Today, younger generations have been striving to explore their own individuality while making the world a more inclusive place. These reworked lifestyles that focus on self-growth and intuitive living are understandably popular among people.
Growing up in a household where paganism was practiced, I myself owe credit to the philosophies, iconography and ways of the old days as a strong influence on many of the lessons and wisdom I have gained; ideas like connecting with divinity through one’s own personal experiences and empowering oneself within. During this time of year when flowers blossom to sweeten the air and mark the rebirth of spring, I am reminded of the goddess of love, Aphrodite and her representation of love, urging us to grow along with the season.
The character of Aphrodite, although more popular throughout modern culture for her role in Greek myths, happens to be a lot more abstract than you may expect. She exists as a symbol of the passionate will to demonstrate one’s love for not only themselves and others, but for the beauty of the world itself. We can see the significance of this symbolism today with motifs seen in pop culture like Lady Gaga’s “Artpop,” or Aphrodite’s appearance as a symbol of love in artwork for centuries.
So, why is the existence and acknowledgment of Aphrodite so important anyway?
Before answering such a question, we must look at the way that Aphrodite was perceived back then.
In the ancient Greek world, Aphrodite meant more to people than just a character in stories and myths. She was a way for people to illustrate and show their devotion and value to the idea of love, and relate to it in their own way. In some Greek towns, sex workers were known to empower themselves through the symbolism of Aphrodite (Festivals About Aphrodite, 2021). Others would reflect upon her to usher romance into their lives. Aphrodite has even at times been portrayed as a fierce warrior, affirming love to be a powerful and meaningful force.
The recognition of Aphrodite in Greek culture was significant enough to form a festival in her honor: Aphrodisia (Schmitz, 2012).
Aphrodisia was a pagan festival celebrated throughout several Greek towns and most notably on the Island of Cyprus (Schmitz, 2012). Though each region celebrated in slight variations, most of these festivals were held to honor the goddess Aphrodite as their symbol of love, and to be reminded of love’s importance. Feasts were held, and all were encouraged to engage in the pleasures that life brings. Though many offerings to gods in ancient Greece included an animal sacrifice, it was crucial that during Aphrodisia, the altar to the goddess was to be kept spotless. Instead, offerings pertaining to purity such as flowers, fire, incense and other pleasantries were allowed on the altar.
Given the elaborate celebrations surrounding her, one can see how as an icon, Aphrodite served to illustrate humans’ relationship with love and pleasure, and since she is often depicted to look human, her symbolic purpose is easier to identify and relate with, creating a bridge between the divine aspects of love and humanity.
Even though Aphrodite remains known as a mythological figure, her abstract symbolism could prove to be incredibly powerful and endearing, just as it was for many of the ancient world. As we encourage people to be themselves now more than ever, Aphrodite’s symbolism can offer so much when it comes to discovering one’s sense of self-love. She reminds us to enjoy the little things that bring us pleasure, to carry ourselves with the confidence of a passionate warrior and to create a personal connection with love, ultimately beautifying our own world.
Using symbols as a means to understand the wonders of life is sort of like using metaphors to better understand words—the purpose is to expand our perspective and think in ways we normally would not. To me, Aphrodite serves as a reminder that in order to heal the world of its wounds, we must slow down and take in all that is overlooked; we must protect the beauty.
Sources:
Aphrodisia. (2021, May 9). Greek Gods.
Schmitz, L. (2012, September 18). Aphrodisia. LacusCurtius.
Ryan, P. (1998, November). "Out of the Broom Closet": The Resurgence of Witchcraft and Neo-Paganism. Origins.