The Goddess Iris

As An Aspect of the Divine Feminine

The Divine Feminine encompasses a myriad of expressions that embody the qualities of nurturing, intuition, creativity, and wisdom. Among these diverse manifestations is the ancient goddess Iris, a figure who resonates deeply within the tapestry of mythological and spiritual traditions. As a personification of the rainbow and a divine messenger, Iris not only symbolises the connection between the mortal and the divine but also serves as a powerful representation of the feminine principles that shape our understanding of the universe.

The Mythological Origins of Iris

In Greek mythology, Iris is often depicted as the messenger of the gods, particularly serving Hera, the queen of the gods. With her wings adorned in vibrant colours, she traverses the sky, bridging the earthly realm and the heavens. Her association with rainbows is significant; a rainbow often symbolises hope and renewal, embodying the promise of better times following a storm. This duality of Iris, as both a harbinger of messages and a symbol of transformation, is integral to her identity as an aspect of the Divine Feminine.

The mythology surrounding Iris often emphasises her role as a connector. She links the gods with mortals and serves as a guide for souls transitioning to the afterlife. This transitional role reflects the nurturing and supportive qualities inherent in the feminine archetype, offering guidance and compassion during times of change and uncertainty.

The Symbolism of the Rainbow

The rainbow, which Iris embodies, holds multifaceted symbolism across various cultures and spiritual practices. It is often seen as a bridge between the earthly and the spiritual realms, embodying unity, diversity, and the spectrum of human experience. Each colour of the rainbow resonates with different energies and qualities, from the passionate reds to the serene violets, representing the fullness of life and the interconnectedness of all beings.

In the context of the Divine Feminine, the rainbow symbolises the richness of feminine expression—each hue representing a unique aspect of femininity. The nurturing qualities of Iris can be seen in how she embraces and celebrates this diversity, reminding us of the importance of inclusivity and acceptance in our personal journeys and in the broader societal context.

The Divine Feminine: Nurturer and Protector

As an aspect of the Divine Feminine, Iris embodies the archetypes of nurturer and protector. Her role as a messenger and connector emphasises the importance of communication, empathy, and understanding in relationships. In a world often characterised by division and disconnection, Iris inspires individuals to bridge gaps, foster connections, and cultivate compassion.

Furthermore, the nurturing aspect of Iris can be seen in her role as a guardian of those in transition—whether they be souls leaving the mortal realm or individuals undergoing personal transformations. The Divine Feminine invites us to embrace change, to nurture our inner selves, and to support others on their journeys.

Iris in Contemporary Spirituality

In modern spiritual practices, the archetype of Iris can be invoked as a symbol of hope, healing, and transformation. Many contemporary spiritual seekers draw upon her qualities to foster connection, embrace diversity, and navigate the complexities of life. Rituals, art, and meditation focused on Iris can help individuals tap into the nurturing energy of the Divine Feminine, encouraging self-love and acceptance while fostering compassion for others.

Furthermore, as society increasingly recognises the importance of feminine energies and values, the goddess Iris serves as a reminder of the power inherent in unity and collaboration. In a world that often prioritises competition and individualism, the principles embodied by Iris invite a return to community, support, and collective growth.

The goddess Iris stands as a profound representation of the Divine Feminine, embodying qualities that resonate deeply with our human experiences. As a messenger, connector, and symbol of transformation, she invites us to embrace the rich spectrum of femininity and the interconnectedness of all beings. In acknowledging her presence in our lives, we are reminded of the importance of compassion, nurturing, and unity—qualities that are essential not only in our personal lives but also in the broader context of society. Through the lens of Iris, we can find inspiration to embody the Divine Feminine in our daily interactions, fostering a world where hope, love, and understanding flourish.

How The Goddess Iris Appeared To Me

An amazing synchronicity

One day I had a vision of the Goddess Iris, appearing to me. As I communicated with her, I asked her to validate the authenticity of the meeting with a sign, in the physical world. The next day, whilst thinking about the previous day's encounter I decided to research the Goddess Iris, to learn more. Normally I'd use the internet, or delve into my collection of books, but for some reason, on this particular day I was minded to use my Kindle, to search for books about the Goddess Iris. A few titles were displayed, one of which was a book about the Divine Feminine, so I downloaded a sample. At this point, I should remind you that my first name is Kerin... and the first qualification I earned in hypnotherapy, in the late 1990s awarded me the letters 'DHP' (diploma in hypnotherapy and psychotherapy). Anyway, as I read through to the end of the foreword I was stunned, when having asked for a sign that my encounter was real, I was presented with the words:: Patricia Iris Kerins DHP. What an amazing synchronicity, in a book about the Divine Feminine, given to me in such a personal way, less than 24 hours after my amazing visionary encounter and my request of the Goddess Iris to give me (Kerin) a sign that our meeting was real.

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See also: The Two Sides of the Dawn.