Rune Oracle

Greek being

Erebus

The deep darkness below

darknessthe underworldshadow

Also called Erebos.

Their story

Erebus is one of the first beings to arise from Chaos, together with black Night. From their union came Aether, the bright upper air, and Hemera, Day. In later poetry Erebus is also the name of the dark region the dead pass through on their way to Hades.

Best times to give to them

  • When remembering the dead
  • In reflection at night

What they like being given

  • None are traditional; a candle lit for the dead is fitting
  • A moment of silence

How to honour them

  1. Reflect on what is hidden in yourself, gently and without fear.
  2. Remember that in the myth, darkness is the parent of light and day.

How they can help you

  • Understanding the underworld myths
  • Shadow work

Symbols

  • darkness
  • mist

Erebus was a cosmic idea rather than a worshipped god.

Sources

  • Hesiod, Theogony 123-125
  • Homer, Odyssey 10.528

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