Blog Article
Janus
As I continue my journey to learn more about different gods and goddesses, Janus and his significance at this time of year became more and more apparent. Janus is the Roman god of beginnings and transitions and January, the first month of the year, is named after this ancient deity. With his portrayal of two faces, one looking to the past and the other to the future, Janus represents beginnings and transitions, as well as symbolizing the doorways and gateways of life.
Janus: God of Beginnings and Transitions
Janus is the god of beginnings and endings. He ushered in the new year, and presided over changing of the seasons and the first day of each month was sacred to him. He protected the beginning of all activities, and marked the start and end of life, and the beginning and end of journeys,
Janus as the God of Doors and Gateways
Janus assumes a fundamental role as the god of doors and gateways as the eternal guardian of entrances, he embodies the importance of thresholds and transitions in human life. Worshipped for his ability to facilitate safe passage and protect doorways, Janus symbolizes the transformative experiences that occur when crossing physical, metaphorical, or spiritual thresholds.
The Symbolism of Janus’ Two Faces
One of the most recognizable aspects of Janus is his dual-faced representation, with one visage looking towards the future and the other gazing into the past. This symbolic depiction emphasizes Janus’ unique position as the god who presides over both endings and beginnings.
The duality of his countenance mirrors the complex nature of transitions, reminding us of the intricate interplay between past and future, and the perpetual cycle of time.
Here’s to Janus: may he close the doors that no longer serve us, and may he grant the graces to open the doors to new beginnings, and help those courageous enough to find those gateways and step through them.
Phred
Phred is a story-teller, and a maker of art. A gatherer of beauty and magick, weaving it all together to create a life less ordinary. A shape-shifter and a seeker of pleasure who’s magick is rooted deeply in the darkness of the underworld and the comfort of the hearth. An alchemist of words and images spinning them together to inspire others to step into their own magick.