It is hard to say farewell to Athena while residing within a global timeframe wherein her wisdom, justice, and guidance is necessary. She was not always a Goddess of War, but one of weaving and the arts as described by Charlene Spretnak in Lost Goddesses of Early Greece (1981). Getting to know the energy of Athena through allowing it to rise within us all has given many within Dark Goddess Collective a perspective that we will carry forward.
In this Anthology, we collaboratively brought together our experiences and knowing of her so that others may connect and call her forward for themselves. Thank you to everyone who came together to make this amazing! Please enjoy!
Correspondences
| Lineage | Greek, Zeus and Metis (Parents) |
| Siblings | Many half-siblings |
| Consort | None (Virgin Goddess) |
| Numerology | 6, 7 |
| Zodiac | Libra, Sagittarius |
| Planetary | Pallas Athene, Mercury, Venus |
| Element | Air |
| Animal | Owl, Snake, Spider, Horse |
| Symbol | Helmet, Shield, Loom |
| Plants, Trees, Herbs | Olive, Apple, Eyebright, Dandelion, Catnip, Strawberry, Rose, |
| Stones | Carnelian, Amber, Citrine, Smoky Quartz |
| Tarot | Empress, Justice |
| Conflations | Minerva (Roman), Neith (Egyptian), Anat (Canaanite) |
Call to Athena
To you I call,
She who is birthed from Tritonis
Many named and many faced
Of the shield
Of the loom
Parthenia
Neith
Anat
She who came from herself
Isis Athene
Pallas Athene
Divine Feminine Wisdom of arts
She who is more than destroyer
She who is also creatrix
I call you, I know you
As you know me
Let us weave together
So it shall be!
~ By Kaycee Reeves
Carnelian, A Stone of Athena by Jane
Carnelian is a brownish-red mineral that is commonly used as a semi-precious gemstone. It is an orange-red variety of chalcedony, cryptocrystalline quartz mineral. It is a member of the chalcedony family. It is a translucent to opaque variety of quartz. The color of Carnelian varies, ranging from pale orange to an intense almost-black coloration, depending on the mineral composition. Carnelian is frequently used in jewelry and for healing purposes.
In ancient Egypt this stone was used to soothe feelings of rage and hatred. Carnelian was considered the builder’s stone. and was worn by master builders. Warriors also wore the stone to increase physical strength and courage in battle.
Healing
The healing properties of this stone include treatment of sexual problems. The stone should be carried in a pocket near the sacral chakra for 12 hours before sex. This stone increases energy and fortifies the body. It is good for treating stones in the kidneys, gallbladder, spleen and pancreas. It is also used in treating nervous problems. By drinking an elixir prepared from the stone. Problems of colds, allergies and blood vessels. Even problems of the spine and radiation from the sun can be treated. When the elixir is put on cuts and wounds it is possible to have faster and better healing.
Carnelian is a great stone to use in depression. It stimulates self-confidence, inner courage and the ability to get things done. When a person is in a depressive state. Or in a state of mind that decisions have to be made. It is said that this person should suck a small round piece of carnelian and keep in their mouths, however, because this is a choking hazard, it is suggested that a better way would be to create the elixir or charge water with the stone and drink from the cup or keep it near you! It hones the ability to make clear and correct decisions. It helps overcome feelings of sadness or sorrow. Anger and nervousness. This stone can arouse our inner curiosity. It is one of the strongest stones for arousing ambition, motivation and independence.
Luck
Carnelian brings good luck in business. It stimulates self-confidence and the motivation to succeed. It increases self-awareness and helps us to understand things from an emotional point of view. It gives inspiration and stimulates the link with the upper and spiritual worlds. Aside from that, it can also help find one’s life purpose and destiny. It can also help in finding one’s talents and in making new friends. This stone can also help in letting go of the fear of the unknown. It is said that carnelian can turn an architect into a master- architect.
Ancient Egyptians named Carnelian the “Sunset Stone” because they believed it caught and reflected the heat of the sun and channeled it into the wearer. Carnelian is still considered a symbol of life in modern cultures. It is also used for protection, wealth and wisdom. Carnelian can help in finding the spirit’s connection to the physical body. It can also increase one’s willpower, spiritual growth, and awareness. It can be used in uniting the mind and body.
Transformation & Goddesses
In ancient Egypt, Carnelian was highly prized and often used in jewelry and amulets. It had protective qualities and was associated with the goddess Isis, symbolizing strength, courage, and motivation. This revered gemstone was associated with the goddess Isis, who was believed to not only provide protection for her followers but also to guide the dead safely to the afterlife. Working with Carnelian can help individuals harness its spiritual and metaphysical healing properties, allowing them to embrace personal transformation, overcome challenges, and unlock their full potential. Plutarch, an ancient author, identified Athena as the Greek goddess that the Egyptians considered to be Isis.
Cleansing & Correspondences
This stone can be cleansed with sunlight, earth, water or smudging. This stone can be charged by sunlight and by holding in dormant hand. Then allowing the energy you desire to pass into this stone from your hand.
Carnelian is ruled by Fire. Its Solar System is Earth, Mercury, Saturn, Sun and Venus. Its element is Fire. It is Yang in energy. Tarot is the Hierophant and Justice.
Do you have Carnelian stones or Jewelry you would like to share? I would love to see.
~ Jane
References include LLewellyn’s complete book of correspondences., Crystals by Connie Islin and Wiki
Embracing the Athena Archetype: A Journey of Wisdom and Strength by Ainsley
As an older-ish woman, I have spent my 50+ years exploring the many facets of womanhood, discovering the power and wisdom that come with age. In my journey, I have found a profound source of inspiration in the Goddess archetypes, particularly in Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom, warfare, and crafts. Athena, with her strength, intelligence, and independence, offers us older women a model of empowerment and a reminder of the virtues that we embody.
Athena, known also as Pallas Athena, was revered in ancient Greece as a goddess of wisdom, strategic warfare, and the arts and crafts. She was born fully formed from the forehead of Zeus, symbolizing her innate strength and intellect. Unlike Ares, who represented the chaos and brutality of war, Athena epitomized strategic thinking and justice, emphasizing skill over sheer force. She was also a patroness of crafts, from weaving to pottery, linking her to creativity and practical knowledge.
The attributes of Athena provide a powerful template for us to embrace and aspire to as we age. In a society that often prioritizes youth and physical beauty, Athena shifts the focus to wisdom, experience, and inner strength. Here’s how Athena’s qualities resonate with and empower us:
Wisdom and Knowledge
Athena symbolizes wisdom and intellectual prowess. Over the years, we have gathered a wealth of experiences and knowledge. Athena reminds us of the power of our hard-earned wisdom. In many cultures, older women are seen as keepers of tradition and wisdom, guiding younger generations with our insights. Embracing Athena helps us celebrate our intellectual contributions and the value of our life experiences.
Strength and Independence
Athena, the warrior goddess, underscores the importance of strength and independence. We often face challenges that require resilience and determination, whether it’s dealing with health issues, societal expectations, or personal transitions. Athena encourages us to harness our inner strength, stand up for ourselves, and navigate these challenges with grace and confidence. This strength aligns with the growing movement toward female empowerment and independence at every stage of life.
Creativity and Craftsmanship
As the goddess of crafts and arts, Athena inspires us to engage in creative pursuits and continue honing our skills. Whether through traditional crafts, artistic endeavors, or new projects, creativity brings joy and fulfillment. Engaging in creative activities enriches our lives and allows us to contribute to our communities and preserve cultural heritage.
Justice and Fairness
Athena’s association with justice and fairness resonates deeply with us, having witnessed and perhaps participated in social changes and movements. This aspect of Athena encourages us to advocate for equity and fairness, using our experiences to mentor and support younger generations in the fight for social justice. Our unique perspectives and wisdom are instrumental in fostering a more just and inclusive society.
Embracing the Athena archetype involves recognizing and celebrating our inherent strengths and qualities. It is a journey of self-acknowledgment and empowerment that can manifest in various ways:
- Lifelong Learning: Continuously seeking knowledge and staying intellectually engaged keeps our minds sharp and fosters a sense of purpose.
- Mentorship: Sharing our wisdom and experiences with younger generations is incredibly fulfilling and impactful.
- Creative Expression: Engaging in arts, crafts, or any form of creative endeavor provides joy and a sense of accomplishment.
- Advocacy: Standing up for justice and fairness, in personal, professional, or community contexts, aligns with Athena’s values.
Athena offers us a powerful and empowering model, celebrating wisdom, strength, creativity, and justice. By embodying these attributes, we can navigate the complexities of aging with confidence and grace, leaving a lasting impact on our communities and the world. Athena’s timeless qualities remind us that with age comes not just wisdom, but the potential for continued growth, creativity, and empowerment.
Women in Modern History
These women, through their various roles and contributions, embody the Athena archetype, serving as modern-day inspirations for wisdom, strength, creativity, and advocacy. Their lives and legacies remind us of the enduring power of the Athena archetype in contemporary society.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the late Supreme Court Justice, is a prime example of the Athena archetype. Known for her formidable intellect, strategic thinking, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality, Ginsburg’s legacy continues to inspire. Her work for gender equality and civil rights reflects Athena’s values of wisdom and fairness.
Oprah Winfrey
Oprah Winfrey is another embodiment of Athena. Her journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a media mogul and philanthropist showcases her strength, resilience, and intellect. Through her various platforms, she promotes education, personal growth, and social justice, empowering millions of women around the world.
Michelle Obama
Former First Lady Michelle Obama resonates with Athena’s qualities of wisdom, advocacy, and creativity. She is known for her intelligence, eloquence, and dedication to promoting education, health, and veterans’ affairs. Her memoir, “Becoming,” and her initiatives like “Let Girls Learn” exemplify her commitment to empowering others.
Malala Yousafzai
Malala Yousafzai, the youngest Nobel Prize laureate, embodies Athena’s courage and pursuit of knowledge. Despite facing extreme adversity, she has become a global advocate for girls’ education. Her bravery and dedication to fighting for the rights of girls to receive an education are reminiscent of Athena’s warrior spirit and wisdom.
Jane Goodall
Renowned primatologist and conservationist Jane Goodall exemplifies Athena’s wisdom and dedication to science and nature. Her pioneering research on chimpanzees and her ongoing efforts to promote conservation and animal welfare highlight her intellectual prowess and commitment to justice for all living beings.
Shonda Rhimes
Shonda Rhimes, the prolific television producer and writer behind shows like “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Bridgerton,” embodies Athena’s creativity and strength. She has broken barriers in the entertainment industry, creating powerful and complex female characters while advocating for diversity and inclusion in media.
Serena Williams
Tennis champion Serena Williams is a modern embodiment of Athena’s strength and resilience. Her dominance in the sport, coupled with her advocacy for gender equality and her entrepreneurial ventures, highlights her multifaceted talents and unwavering determination.
Greta Thunberg
Climate activist Greta Thunberg represents Athena’s youthful wisdom and fierce advocacy for justice. Despite her young age, she has become a leading voice in the fight against climate change, using her platform to challenge world leaders and inspire global action.
Martha Stewart
Martha Stewart is a quintessential embodiment of the Athena archetype in modern times. As a successful businesswoman, television personality, and author, Stewart’s expertise spans various domains, including cooking, homemaking, and entrepreneurship. Her journey from a model to a media mogul and domestic goddess showcases her multifaceted talents and intellect.
Wisdom and Knowledge
Martha Stewart is renowned for her extensive knowledge in cooking, decorating, and home improvement. Her books, television shows, and magazines have educated and inspired millions, turning her name into a household brand synonymous with elegance and expertise. This aligns perfectly with Athena’s association with wisdom and practical knowledge.
Strength and Independence
Stewart’s resilience and ability to reinvent herself, especially after facing legal challenges and imprisonment, highlight her inner strength and independence. She emerged from adversity with renewed vigor, continuing to expand her empire and influence. This tenacity mirrors Athena’s warrior spirit, demonstrating that setbacks can be overcome with grace and determination.
Creativity and Craftsmanship
As the goddess of crafts, Athena would undoubtedly admire Stewart’s dedication to creativity and craftsmanship. Stewart’s meticulous attention to detail and innovative approach to homemaking and crafts have set high standards in the industry. Her ability to turn ordinary materials into extraordinary creations reflects Athena’s creative spirit.
Justice and Fairness
While not traditionally seen as an activist, Stewart’s impact on empowering women in business and entrepreneurship is significant. She has paved the way for women to enter and excel in the business world, advocating for high standards and ethical practices in all her endeavors. Her career serves as a beacon for fairness and equality in the competitive world of business.
By embracing these qualities, Martha Stewart stands as a modern-day representation of the Athena archetype, inspiring older women to celebrate their wisdom, creativity, strength, and capacity for reinvention.
~ Ainsley
For more on the archetype of Athena, two resources I recommend are Goddesses in Everywoman by Jean Shinoda Bolen and Goddesses in Older Women by Jean Shinoda Bolen.
A Divination with Animal Guides
You can find the directions here:
Orphic Hymn to Athena (Taylor trans.)
“Only-begotten, noble race of Jove, Blessed and fierce, who joy’st in caves to rove : O warlike Pallas, whose illustrious kind, ineffable and effable we find : Magnanimous and fam’d, the rocky height, And groves, and shady mountains thee delight : In arms rejoicing, who with Furies dire And wild, the souls of mortals dost inspire. Gymnastic virgin of terrific mind, Dire Gorgons bane, unmarried, blessed, kind : Mother of arts, impetuous ; understood, Rage to the wicked, wisdom to the good : Female and male, the arts of war are thine, Fanatic, much-form’d dragoness, divine : O’er the Phlegrean giants, rous’d to ire, Thy coursers driving, with destruction dire. Sprung from the head of Jove, of splendid mien, Purger of evils, all-victorious queen. Hear me, O Goddess, when to thee I pray, With supplicating voice both night and day, And in my latest hour, give peace and health, And, ever present, be thy vot’ries aid, O, much implor’d, art’s parent, blue eyed-maid. “
Meeting Athena the First Time and Now
The first time I met Athena was in the dream time immediately following a moment in which I felt unsafe in a place where safety should have been a given. You can listen to the experience here.
A huge thank you to everyone who collaborated and made this Anthology a beautiful amalgam for personal discoveries!
A Candle & A Key,
Kaycee
Sources
Bolen, J.S. (2014). Goddesses in everywoman: Powerful archetypes in women’s lives. Thirtieth Anniversary Edition. Harper. New York
Kynes, S. (2013). Llewellyn’s Complete Book of Correspondences: A Comprehensive & Cross-Referenced Resource for Pagans & Wiccans. Llewellyn Publications.
Orphic Hymns, Taylor Translation
Spretnak, C. (1981). Lost Goddesses of Early Greece. Beacon Press. Boston.
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