Also called Phoebe, Artemis Agrotera, Potnia Theron, Artemis Brauronia.
Their story
In the hymn by Callimachus, the child Artemis sat on Zeus's knee and asked to remain unmarried for ever, to have many names, a bow and arrows, and the mountains for her home. Zeus granted it all. Though she chose no children of her own, women called on her in childbirth, since she had helped deliver her twin brother Apollo.
Their day
Monday. Artemis came to be linked with the moon in later antiquity, so Monday, the day of the Moon, is widely used for her.
Best times to give to them
- the sixth day of each lunar month, her birthday
- the Mounichia in spring, at the full moon
- dawn or dusk in wild places
- Mondays
What they like being given
- wildflowers
- fresh spring water
- honey
- small round cakes set with candles
- a gift to a wildlife charity in her name
How to honour them
- Walk in woodland or open country and dedicate the walk to Artemis.
- Pick up litter or care for a wild place as an offering to her.
- Light a candle to her at the full moon and ask for strength and independence.
- Protect and encourage the girls and young women in your life.
How they can help you
- independence and self-reliance
- connecting with nature
- protecting children and the vulnerable
- safe childbirth
- focus on a goal
Symbols
- bow and arrows
- deer
- cypress
- crescent moon
- hunting dogs
Herbs linked with them
- Mugwort Artemisia vulgaris
More Greek goddesses
- Hera Queen of heaven and guardian of marriage
- Athena Grey-eyed goddess of wisdom and craft
- Aphrodite Foam-born goddess of love and beauty
- Hestia Goddess of the hearth and the home fire
- Demeter Mother of the grain and the harvest
- Persephone Queen of the underworld and the returning spring
- Hecate Keeper of crossroads and keys
- Selene The moon herself, driving her silver chariot