Theogamia-Eukleia - 02.15.2025
Anniversary of Zeus and Lêta
Theogamia-Eukleia or more simply, Euklemia, the anniversary celebration of King Zeus and Queen Lêta's mythic marriage. Occurring on Bysios 15, it occurs the day after the modern holiday of 'Valentine's Day'.
The festival is one of joy, but also respect and reverence. It is important that on this holy day we remember that Zeus and Lêta are divine royalty, and that their positions in the cosmos command respect.
Symbols & Decore
Hair Binding/Veiling:
Recommended
Jewelry/Adornments:
Recommended
Foods of Significance:
Wedding Cakes
Large Feasts
The Evening Meal Should be Preceded by Hors Devours of Your Choosing
Colors of Significance:
Red
Yellow
Silver
Gold
Symbols of Significance:
Wedding Imagery (Ancient or Modern)
Torches
Celestial Imagery, for the God and Goddess of the Heavens
History vs Modern Day
Euklemia is a syncretism of the Athenian festival Theogamia and the Delphic festival of Eukleia - both festivals honor themes of marriage and matrimony.
From Hellenion, regarding Theogamia:
"The anniversary of the marriage (gamos) of Zeus Teleios (authority, head of the family) and Hera Teleia, giving the month its name. Not much is known about this festival except that it was celebrated with great feasting. Because the sacred marriage was commemorated this month, the month became the ideal time to marry, perhaps because of the imminent arrival of spring (Parke 104)."
From Pythio.Notion, regarding Eukleia:
"The Eukleia [...] is likely marriage/wedding-related and is connected to torch races and athletic competitions. Eukleia is linked to musical and theater events in other parts of Greece, which may have been reflected in the Delphic celebrations. Many other traditions and rituals related to marriage are associated with the epithet "Eukleia", emphasizing its connection with marital customs, and its special importance for young unmarried women."
The Temple of Hyacinthus observes Euklemia as the anniversary of the mythic marriage between the divine; Queen Lêta and King Zeus. It is celebrated on the day following Valentine's day to serve as a reminder that all love (romantic or otherwise) is a connection to divinity.
Eirene - peace and farewell,
- Aön & The Temple of Hyacinthus