There is no way to talk about Greek mythology without mentioning the goddess of love, attraction and sensuality, Aphrodite. A goddess that many have heard of, but few know her story. As you already know, at we love to bring you all these Greek Gods and mythological characters. Previously we have dedicated an entry to delving deeper into who Aphrodite is, but today we want to focus on her origins. So, we encourage you to join us in discovering the birth of Aphrodite.
Briefly explained, Aphrodite is known as the goddess of love, but it is necessary to clarify that she is not on a romantic level, but rather in the erotic sense.. In fact, it is from its name that the word aphrodisiac is derived, and it is not in vain. She is often compared to the Roman Venus, and, despite being married to Hephaestus, she had several lovers. But let’s start at the beginning.
The birth of Aphrodite, know the origin of the goddess
1. How was Aphrodite born?
It is said that her name means «born of foam», and that is precisely how she is believed to have been born. At the origins of the creation of Olympus, there was a woman called Gaia, mother Earth, from whom all races emerged.. She, by herself, begat Uranus (Heaven), with whom she later united to give rise to the Titans, the Cyclopes and the Hecatonchires. However, it is said that Uranus hated all of her children.
This was the main reason why he forced them to live in the depths of their mother (Gaea). But horrified by this, Gaia decided to free them, asking them to take revenge on her Uranus for despising them.. Everyone feared Uranus, except Cronus (time), who accepted the mission, and when Uranus landed on Gaia to unite with her, Cronus cut off his genitals. The blood fell into the sea, forming a foam that would be the perfect excuse for the birth of Aphrodite..
2. Life of Aphrodite
From the birth of Aphrodite it is known that she was not born as a baby, which is why it is believed that she did not have a childhood. On the contrary, She was born as an adult, beautiful and infinitely desirable woman.. Despite being the goddess of love (it is worth remembering that at the time love was more related to the carnal than to the sentimental), she is believed to have been a vain, moody and susceptible woman.
Zeus feared that Aphrodite’s beauty would cause violence among the gods, and to remedy this he ordered her to marry Hephaestus., the god of fire, who was known for his moody character, his limp, and his ugliness. Therefore, Aphrodite did not hesitate to accept the love of others, both gods and mortals. Among her numerous lovers, she especially stood out Ares, with whom she had a son Eros; God of War.
3. What was Aphrodite like?
We know that from the birth of Aphrodite the goddess was seen as a beautiful woman. Physically, It is believed that she sported skin that was as pale as it was smooth, as well as long, really wavy hair.. In addition, it was said that she had wide hips, firm and round buttocks, with beautiful breasts and very sharp features. However, for many, Aphrodite’s most beautiful feature was undoubtedly her eyes; They were green, with long eyelashes and a mischievous and inciting shine that was capable of making anyone who looked at them go crazy. She used to wear a white silk tunic accompanied by a belt that highlighted her curves.
From the origins Aphrodite She came into the world as a goddess to represent carnal desire and lust, not to represent love from feelings as many believe. Even today some adore her, and ask for fertility, protection for her husband, among other things. Did you know the birth of Aphrodite? Do you know another story about her birth? Write to us we like to read you.