Hestia is one of the Olympian god, she is eldest daughter of Chronus and Rhea and a sibling to Demeter, Hera, Hades, Poseidon and Zeus. She is widely known as the goddess of fire and heart in the Greek mythology. Personally, Hestia is my favorite Greek goddess. Why? In fact Hestia doesn’t have any involvement […]
“Hestia”
I found this clip resonated with me today.
“This is the true joy in life, the being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one; the being thoroughly worn out before you are thrown on the scrap heap; the being a force of Nature instead of a feverish selfish little clod of ailments and grievances complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy.
I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the community, and as long as I live, it is my privilege to do for it whatever I can. I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work, the more I live. Life is no ‘brief candle’ to me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for a moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to the future generations.”
~ George Bernard Shaw
This has had me contemplating the aspects of service and sacrifice throughout the day.
I dedicated a decade of my life in service to another deity, and since then, my devotional practice has opened up, I have become aware of the presence of others. Most recently, Hestia.
Hestia,
You who were present in all temples,
You who received the first offering of each sacrifice,
To whom the first and the last pour of wine were devoted.
Guide me in tending my own flame.
Protector of the Prytaneia
The religious and community centres of every city,
Guide me in service to others,
Gentle but constant Guardian of both State and Sanctuary,
Grant me the strength to advocate for all Beings
As we are all friends, extended family, and kin.
Fortify me,
That I might stand solidly both in public life and in private.
Enrich me with your blessings,
So that like you, I have the ability to step away from power,
And yet continue to serve,
Whilst not compromising my Self,
Just as you stayed true to your Self,
And are honoured always for your choice.
Hail Holy Hestia,
Protector, Guardian, constant tenderer of Sacred Flame.
Hymn written by Fabienne S. Morgana August 26th 2023
Other Hestia Prayers / Devotionals
Iphigenia, Hestia, & the Muse of Painting
Who was *is* the Greek Goddess Hestia?
The Immense Power of Hestia in Greek Mythology and Spirituality
Hestia | Greek Goddess of Hearth And Home
Prayer to Hestia and Hermes for Home Economy