Myrtle - Greek Mythology

Overview

Myrtle was the sacred plant of Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty. This fragrant evergreen shrub with its delicate white flowers and aromatic leaves embodied love, beauty, desire, and the mysteries of passion. The connection between myrtle and Aphrodite runs deep through Greek mythology and ritual practice.

Mythological Significance

Aphrodite's Birth and the Myrtle

When Aphrodite emerged from the sea foam near Cyprus, she first took shelter behind a myrtle bush to preserve her modesty from the eyes of watching gods. From that moment, myrtle became her sacred plant, forever associated with her beauty and the sweet mysteries of love. The island of Cyprus, Aphrodite's sacred land, was renowned for its fragrant myrtle groves.

Symbol of Love and Marriage

Myrtle's evergreen nature and delicate beauty made it the perfect emblem of enduring love. Aphrodite was often depicted crowned with myrtle, and her temples were planted with myrtle groves. The plant's associations with fertility, beauty, and passion made it central to Greek wedding ceremonies and love rituals.

Religious and Ritual Uses

Wedding Ceremonies: Brides wore myrtle wreaths and carried myrtle branches as symbols of love and fertility
Temple Offerings: Fresh myrtle adorned Aphrodite's altars and temples
Love Magic: Myrtle featured in charms and spells to attract love or ensure fidelity
Perfumes and Oils: Myrtle essence used in cosmetics and anointing oils sacred to Aphrodite
Victory Crowns: Myrtle wreaths also honored bloodless victories and peaceful achievements
Purification: Myrtle's sweet scent used in cleansing rituals

Symbolism

Myrtle represented:

Love and Desire: Romantic and erotic passion under Aphrodite's domain
Beauty and Grace: Physical loveliness and aesthetic perfection
Marriage and Fertility: Conjugal love and procreative power
Immortality: The evergreen as symbol of eternal love
Chastity: Paradoxically, also associated with modest virtue in marriage
Peace: Bloodless victory and civilized resolution over violence

Cultural Significance

Myrtle's importance extended beyond religious contexts into daily Greek life. Athletes who won victories without bloodshed received myrtle crowns rather than laurel or olive. Magistrates in Athens wore myrtle wreaths as symbols of their authority. The plant's pleasant fragrance made it popular in gardens and domestic shrines. During symposia (drinking parties), guests wore myrtle wreaths to honor Aphrodite and invoke the spirit of pleasure and conviviality.