The Roman goddess we are presenting today is Minerva, goddess of wisdom, victory, law, and justice. Minerva was an essential figure in Roman society, supporting the arts, military, and trade. Although not as immersed in war, battles, and kingdom affairs as the Greek goddess Athena, the Roman goddess still serves as a guiding force for soldiers, emphasizing knowledge and wisdom.
Let’s take a closer look at Minerva and what she meant to Roman society:
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Where did Minerva Goddess Come From?
Minerva goddess is identified as the daughter of Jupiter in Roman mythology. She is depicted as wise and talented, excelling in battle. Unfortunately, she is also associated with negative traits such as jealousy and self-consciousness.
Most Roman goddesses are characterized as very feminine, embodying traits of chastity, purity, and elegance. In contrast, Minerva is described as athletic and tall, boasting a muscular frame. She wears a tunic woven of wool, along with a helmet, armor, and a chiton. Minerva holds a shield in one hand and a spear in the other, the shield being adorned with decorations.
Minerva is also linked to the Greek goddess Athena. Her initial symbol was the owl, representing wisdom. Her second symbol was an olive branch, symbolizing victory, and was believed to have originated from an olive tree. The last symbol associated with Minerva is a snake, linked to her story involving Medusa.
Origins of Minerva, Goddess of Wisdom
As mentioned earlier, Minerva, goddess of wisdom, is closely linked with the renowned Greek Goddess Athena. However, her mythical story of origin involves the Roman god Jupiter swallowing Metis. The birth of Minerva, emerging in complete armor and tunic, occurred after Volcanus (alsa known as Vulcan) used a mythical hammer to divide Jupiter’s head due to the constant disturbance caused by Metis within him.
What is the Meaning of Minerva’s Name?
Minerva’s name, resembling Menrva, the Etruscan goddess, could be derived from various Proto-European and Indo words, potentially signifying “men” or the Latin word for “men.” “Mind” is another interpreted meaning. Menrva is also associated with the etymology of the English word “mental.”
Another suggestion is that Minerva’s name might have Italic origins, where “Mensewa” translates to “she who knows.” Despite the unrelated nature of Etruscans and Italics, this similarity demonstrates how culture travels within neighboring regions.
Another parallel is found with Proto-Indian, where Menasvini is a Hindu goddess known for intelligence and wisdom, similar to Minerva.
Minerva Goddess Worship
In line with other gods, the City of Rome dedicated specific places to worship Minerva, goddess of wisdom. The Capitoline Hill Temple, constructed for Minerva, Juno, and Jupiter, stands on the seven Hills of Rome.
Where is Minerva Today?
Minerva goddess’s influence has persisted over the centuries. Statues dedicated to her wisdom and strategic thinking stand in various locations worldwide. She remains a symbol utilized in academia in the present day.