Velchanos: The Ancient god of Crete

-

Velchanos, an ancient Minoan god associated with vegetation, held a significant place in the Minoan pantheon on the island of Crete. However, over time, he has been overshadowed by the mighty Zeus. This post aims to shed light on the forgotten deity and explore his role in Minoan culture.


Source Image: 123RF AI Image Generator

Origin and Worship

Velchanos was revered as one of the main deities in the Minoan pantheon. He was often portrayed in a state of adoration for the goddess, highlighting his reverence and subordination.

Death and Rebirth Rituals

The annual death and rebirth of Velchanos were enacted through a young male deity, who represented the cycle of discontinuity in nature. As the goddess was not permitted to die, the young deity played the dual roles of son and consort. The tearing of a branch from the shrine tree symbolised the death of the young god. It is speculated that a male attendant, representing Velchanos, might have been following this ritual.

Connections to Zeus and Other Deities

Velchanos shares a connection with Zeus, and it is believed that he survived as one of Zeus' titles on Crete. This suggests a potential assimilation or evolution of the deity within the greater Greek pantheon. Furthermore, similarities between Hephaestus, Talos, Daedalus imply that they might be different titles or aspects of the same mythical character.

African Influence

In an attempt to infuse Crete's religion with an African flavour, the author of the next merged African myths with existing ones. This could explain the unique aspects and rituals associated with Velchanos' worship in Minoan culture.

Conclusion

Through overshadowed by Zeus and forgotten over time, Velchanos played a significant role in Minoan culture as a deity associated with vegetation. The rituals surrounding his annual death and rebirth, along with his connections to Zeus and other deities, offer intriguing insights into the complex mythology of ancient Crete. By unravelling the enigma of Velchanos, we can better understand the rich tapestry of Minoan religious beliefs and practices.

I am thrilled to announce that my upcoming fiction book, Beast or a God, is set in the vibrant backdrop of Minoan culture. This immersive tale is a journey through a world of mystery, power, and ancient traditions that will leave you spellbound.

To be the first to know about the release date and exclusive updates about Beast or a God, make sure to stay tuned by completing the contact form on the right side of this blog. Join us on this extraordinary literary adventure and be part of an exclusive community that appreciates the allure of the Minoans.

Relevant Articles
Location: Λονδίνο, Ηνωμένο Βασίλειο

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Britomartis: The Ancient Cretan Goddess

-
Image
Britomartis is an ancient Cretan goddess whose origins date back to Minoan times. She is often associated with nature, hunting, and the untamed wilderness. Her story and significance offer a fascinating glimpse into the rich tapestry of ancient Cretan mythology. Source Image: https://www.123rf.com/profile_blackboard1965 Origins and Mythology Britomartis, whose name means ''sweet maiden'' or ''good maiden,'' was revered as a protector of mountains, forests, and hunting. According to mythology, she was the daughter of Zeus and the nymph Carme, and her story is intertwined with the legends of the island of Crete. Symbols and Attributes Britomartis is often depicted as a young huntress, carrying a bow, and accompanied by wild animals such as deer and bears. She embodies the untamed spirit of nature and is celebrated as a guardian of wild places. Worship and Festivals In ancient Crete, Britomartis was honoured with various festivals and rituals, particularly ...
Read more

Idomeneus: The Ancient Cretan King

-
Image
Idomeneus was an important figure in Greek mythology and was known as the King of Crete. His story intertwined with the legendary tales of the Trojan War and the aftermath of this pivotal event in ancient Greek history. Source Image: 123RF AI Image Generator Background and Origins Idomeneus was the son of Deucalion, who was the son of Minos, a legendary king of Crete. This lineage connected him to the powerful rulers of the Minoan civilization, adding the significance of his character in Greek mythology. Role in the Trojan War During the Trojan war, Idomeneus played a crucial role as a prominent Greek leader. He was one of the many Greek warriors who participated in the epic conflict, and he was renowned for his bravery and military prowess. Return from Troy Following the fall of Troy, as recounted in Homer's Iliad, Idomeneus  encountered numerous challenges on his journey back to Crete. His adventures and tribulations on the seas were a popular subject in ancient Greek literature ...
Read more