THE greek made a libation to Hera in the month of Gamelion. Hera Ήρα is the queen of heaven, gods and men, reigning at Olympos alongside Zeus, her brother and husband. Her sacred marriage (hieros gamos) with Zeus is reflected in the name of the month of Gamelion.

libation to Hera

Libation ritual to Hera

In the myths, this marriage is fraught with pitfalls; however, these allow the marriage vows to be renewed and fulfilled again and again. This is reflected in various festivals to Hera outside Athens.

The Homeric Hymn to Hera says:

I sing of Hera on the golden throne that Rhea laid bare.
Queen of the immortals is she, surpassing all in beauty,
she is the sister and wife of thunderous Zeus
the glorious one that all the blessed of high Olympos
reverence and honor like Zeus who delights in thunder.

Although often annoyed by her husband's indiscretions, Hera herself always remains faithful to her marriage vows. For us, although commitment to others is difficult and often suffers from reverses and challenges - the evil continually quarrels with the good, as the Hesiod in the theogony (line 609) – it can be renewed and strengthened with every setback. This libation and this month are the perfect time to reflect on your commitments and relationships – Romantic or not.

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On this day, the Athenians made libations to Hera. Symbol of relationships and marriage, her marriage to Zeus is the symbol of the month of Gamelion (January). #mythology #myth #legend #calendar #héra #zeus #gamelion

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libation to Hera