About the Goddess Diana
Throughout history, many gods and goddesses have been revered by the people of various cultures. Diana was a goddess worshiped by the Romans, but is also known in other cultures, and by many names.
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History of
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To the Romans, she was known as Diana, but to the Greeks Diana was known as Artemis. According to Roman mythology, Diana was the daughter of Jupiter and Latona. Like her Greek counterpart Artemis, she was born on the island of Delos. Diana was the twin sister of the god Apollo. Diana was a virgin goddess; a goddess of nature, fertility and childbirth. Women who were with child invoked the name of Diana to aid them through the pain of childbirth, and also for the protection of their offspring and themselves. Diana was also a goddess of healing.
Identification
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Various sources claim that Diana's origins were not Greek nor Roman, but Latin or Italian. In Italy, Diana was once known as the Queen of Witches, women who were known for their wisdom and the ability to heal with the use of herbs.
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Features
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Diana was known for her beauty, grace and hunting skill. She was the protector of animals, both domestic and wild. She was identified with the Italian goddess of the woodlands. Diana was referred to as the Divine Huntress and Lady of the Beast. She was also referred to as the Mother of all Animals. Oak Groves were sacred to Diana, as was the deer, which was her animal totem. The name Diana means Bright One, and fittingly Diana was known as the Goddess of the Moon. Diana was also referred to as a Goddess of Light and the Queen of Heaven.
Benefits
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It was fitting that Diana was the Roman Goddess of the Amazons, since she possessed both strength and beauty as well as unmatched skill as a huntress. Even though the Amazons were most known for their warlike all-female society, they were also known for their strength and beauty as well. Diana was identified with the Egyptian Goddess Bast, who was the protector of felines in particular. Diana was also identified with the Phoenician Goddess Astarte.
Significance
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Diana was the patroness of lower-class people and particularly slaves. In a temple of Diana, slaves could request asylum and receive it. Her festival took place on August 13th. Diana's temple at Ephesus was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. The temple of Diana at Ephesus was later re-dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Evolution
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Diana was also the Goddess of Magic. A branch of Wicca was named after her. Even in today's modern society, Diana is still recognized as a Goddess of Light and protector.
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