Celtic Horse - viewed as a magical being. Transporter to the otherworld. Power, guidance, protector / protection, prosperity, magic, prophecy, laughter, slumber and a sigh.

 

 

The Celtic goddess Epona was revered and worshiped by ancient Celtic people. She is known as a loving protector of horses, donkeys and other animals. She is commonly represented as a horse figure, a foal, a mare or as a woman on horseback. She is also a goddess of fertility, re-birth and abundance.

 

Originally a Celtic goddess, Epona was eventually accepted by the Romans who saw her as a protector of their cavalry.

 

 

Etymology of the name Epona

 

The name Epona comes from the Iron Age language of Gaulish, a Celtic language. In the Gaulish language, Epos means horse and Epa is the feminine equivalent that means a female horse (a mare). The “on” found in the name Epona is also found in the names of Gaulish and Gallo-Roman goddesses and gods such as Matrona, Divona and Carnonos. If you put this information together, the meaning of the name Epona is “divine mare” or “woman who is like a mare”.

Signs and symbols of Epona

Sacred animals- Horses, particularly mares and foals. lso birds and dogs.

Images- horse figures or images, cornucopia

Plant- Roses, rosebuds and rose garlands

Incense- Rose, sandalwood

Fruit- The most common frut of offering to Epona is the apple, but a basket or plate of fruits is also a good offering.

 

Festival Day - December 18th

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