Hestia

Areas of Influence: Hestia was the domestic Goddess of the hearth domesticity, hospitality and family life.

Her importance is not fully reflected in the few surviving myths. In fact she is often referred to as the forgotten Goddess. In the past, if the hearth fire was ever extinguished it had to be ritually re-lit with the flame from her temple.

There were also public hearths dedicated to her known as prytaneions. The most famous of these were sited at Olympia and at Delphi. In these hearths the first fruits, oil, wine and cows were sacrificed to her.

She gave up her seat as one of the Olympians to Dionysus so she could tend the sacred fire on Mount Olympus. Compared to many of her fellow Goddesses she is a breath of fresh air since she is not prone to jealously and constant meddling in other people’s affairs like the other Olympians. 

Birth and Genealogy: This Goddess has the peculiar title of being both the eldest and the youngest daughter of Rhea and Cronus. She was swallowed whole at birth by her father and was the last one to be regurgitated, after Zeus tricked him into taking an emetic.

Her other other siblings also became important figure in Greek mythology, they were: Hades, Poseidon, Demeter and Hera. 

She was a virgin Goddess and never married or had any children, despite Poseidon's and Apollo's best efforts to woo her. The decision to accept neither hand in marriage prevented a war from breaking out amongst her suitors. Zeus was so pleased by this that at every banquet the first and last offerings are always made to her.

This Deity was also chased by the God Priapos who attempted to defile Hestia as she slept after a house party. However, the by the braying of a donkey woke her and she called upon the other house guests to protect her.

Strengths: Modesty, welcoming, pacifying and dedication to her job.

Weaknesses: Self-sacrificing and unsociable.

Hestia's Symbolism

Never shown in human form, she was usually symbolised by a sacred flame or a circle which represented the hearth fire. 

Sacred Animals: Cows 

Roman Equivalent: Vesta 

Hestia's Archetype

The Nun:The Nun is characterized by her intense devotion and dedication to her path. Their work requires great focus and includes not only spiritual paths but artistic and business pursuits. The Nun chooses celibacy to conserve energy for her vital work.

Shadow Nun is removed from everyday reality, introverted and self-righteous.

The Greek Goddess of the Hearth was very devoted to her job as keeper of the eternal flame. She left the luxury and comfort of mount Olympus so she could dedicate herself to this task. She also never marries or has children. 

How To Work With This Archetype

The Nun: The Nun represents a total devotion to your work. This is the area of your life where you expend all your available energy.

If this is your Archetype you run the risk of becoming isolated and losing touch with friends and family. You may also become very judgemental of people who don't share your goals and vision.