Moon Goddess
Selene was the ancient Greek goddess of the Moon, embodying its light and beauty. She was often depicted as a radiant woman riding a silver chariot across the night sky, drawn by two white horses or oxen. As the personification of the Moon, Selene governed its phases and was associated with the passage of time, cycles, and dreams.
In pre-Olympian mythology, Selene was a daughter of the Titans Hyperion and Theia, making her a sibling to Helios (the Sun) and Eos (the Dawn). She is also a descendant of Gaia (the Earth). In much the same way that Gaia is the embodiment of the Earth itself, Selene is the embodiment of the moon.
One of Selene’s most famous myths involves her love for Endymion, a mortal shepherd. Selene asked Zeus to grant Endymion eternal sleep so he would remain youthful forever, and she visited him nightly in as he slept. Other myths say Endymion asked Zeus for perpetual sleep so he could stay with Selene.
Selene is also known by the name Mene. The words “Month” and “Moon” are derived from “Mene”, as is the word “Menses”. This alludes to her role in the cycles of womanhood.
Selene is sometimes identified with other lunar goddesses though she maintains a distinct role as the personified Moon itself. Her gentle, luminous presence symbolizes tranquility and intuition, and she is honored in poetry and art as the serene light that watches over the earth each night.
Artemis, Selene, and Hecate / Triple Moon Goddesses
Selene has sometimes been conflated with Artemis and Hecate (also moon goddesses). Sometimes they are portrayed as the Triple Moon Goddess with Artemis as the Maiden, Selene the mother, and Hecate the Crone. Since Selene preceded these goddesses, it’s easy to imagine how parts of the Selene archetype became woven into other goddess myths as Greek culture evolved.
While Selene maintained a distinct role as the Moon itself, Artemis became a protector of adolescent girls and wilderness, and Hecate came to be seen as a guide through dark places and presiding over magic.
Support In Your Journey
Selene, as goddess of the Moon, would support your journey in ways that reflect her essence: guiding you through change, fostering inner peace, and helping you trust in your personal cycles. Here’s how she might assist you:
- Navigating Transitions and Change:
Selene understands the natural rhythm of waxing and waning—how life flows through phases of growth, rest, and renewal. She would remind you to honor where you are on your journey, whether you feel full of energy or need time to retreat and reflect. Just as the Moon is whole even when partially hidden, Selene would help you embrace the value in every phase, teaching patience and acceptance during times of uncertainty or transformation. - Illuminating the Shadows:
Selene’s soft, silver light offers insight in the darkness. She would gently guide you to explore the parts of yourself you might avoid—fears, doubts, or emotions buried deep within. With her presence, self-reflection becomes less frightening and more nurturing, revealing truths you need for growth. Through dreams, intuition, or subtle signs, she may bring clarity when things feel unclear or overwhelming. - Encouraging Rest and Balance:
As the Moon governs night and sleep, Selene would remind you that rest is essential on any journey. She encourages stillness and reflection, helping you listen to your intuition rather than rushing ahead. Her energy teaches you to flow, not force—to trust in moments of pause and restoration, knowing they are necessary for renewal. - Offering Comfort and Peace:
In times of loneliness or emotional struggle, Selene’s presence can feel like a comforting embrace. She would remind you that you are never truly alone—just as the Moon returns after every new phase, hope and peace are always within reach. Her energy offers reassurance, helping you feel supported and connected to the larger rhythms of life.
Ultimately, Selene would serve as a patient guide, reminding you to trust yourself, honor your phases, and find beauty in the quiet, reflective moments along the way.