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In Her Service: Reflections from a Priestess of Aphrodite
This debut offering by Laurelei Dabrielle investigates the initial questions and foundational principles inherent in becoming and working as a Priestess of Aphrodite. From candid discussions of sacred sexuality to practical tips for enhancing grace and planning Aphroditic rituals, In Her Service guides Aphrodite's devotees into the inner sanctum of the temple.
114 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2007
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
April 18, 2023
I Received a free, advanced copy of the 3rd edition of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review of its contents
This book is thought-provoking and interesting- though inapplicable to my practice as a Noahide and NeoWiccan; hence the 3 star rating: I can't actually conceivably give it more, but only because I can't evaluate its usefulness in modern practice, in full accuracy. However. What I read, I was actually very impressed with.
The book is both thought provoking, and interesting, in a number of ways; it brings to light new perspectives on Temple Priestesshood in the modern era- specifically of modern Devoteeship to Aphrodite and the many ways that modern individuals may serve as her Priestesses according to evidence from Antiquity; I would venture to call it likely something akin to a Revivalist stance, and a relatively decent one at that.
The book is far from without controversial material, however. Indeed, it's heavy on information about, and a focus on, Sex Work as part of Temple Priestesshood. It doesn't shy away from the fact that this was a known element- and one that some may wish to incorporate into the modern Priestesshood, and the grey areas that exist surrounding it within American law- especially in relation to Religion. But it does provide conversation, as well, on the ways in which the sexual may be turned to the sensual, and perhaps even to just the companionable instead. And, of course, that's far from being all the book's about; there's a solid dearth of information within it, spanning quite a lot of topics that are all thought provoking and really get you thinking about how to serve the Divine (or, at least, this Deity) in the modern era.
It's clear the book has undergone several revisions, too, as times have changed and new events have occurred in relation to these practices as well. Indeed, the author clearly addresses several legal cases across a broad spectrum, as well as various past controversies with their own words and writings on these topics- including in relation to their own past conjecture on various possibilities for work. Which is something I greatly appreciate; we love an author, here, who takes responsibility for past works and past mistakes, and openly addresses them in their books (especially when those books are further editions of the original work, so that people continue to get updated information on the same text; we love to see it!).
That being said: I don't know if this book is of much use for anyone who isn't specifically an Aphrodite worshipper or Devotee looking to deepen their practice; while I did find a lot to chew on myself, as someone who always enjoys reading other perspectives from other traditions, that's not true for a lot of people I've found. And so if it's not true for you, either, you likely won't find much use here.
This book is thought-provoking and interesting- though inapplicable to my practice as a Noahide and NeoWiccan; hence the 3 star rating: I can't actually conceivably give it more, but only because I can't evaluate its usefulness in modern practice, in full accuracy. However. What I read, I was actually very impressed with.
The book is both thought provoking, and interesting, in a number of ways; it brings to light new perspectives on Temple Priestesshood in the modern era- specifically of modern Devoteeship to Aphrodite and the many ways that modern individuals may serve as her Priestesses according to evidence from Antiquity; I would venture to call it likely something akin to a Revivalist stance, and a relatively decent one at that.
The book is far from without controversial material, however. Indeed, it's heavy on information about, and a focus on, Sex Work as part of Temple Priestesshood. It doesn't shy away from the fact that this was a known element- and one that some may wish to incorporate into the modern Priestesshood, and the grey areas that exist surrounding it within American law- especially in relation to Religion. But it does provide conversation, as well, on the ways in which the sexual may be turned to the sensual, and perhaps even to just the companionable instead. And, of course, that's far from being all the book's about; there's a solid dearth of information within it, spanning quite a lot of topics that are all thought provoking and really get you thinking about how to serve the Divine (or, at least, this Deity) in the modern era.
It's clear the book has undergone several revisions, too, as times have changed and new events have occurred in relation to these practices as well. Indeed, the author clearly addresses several legal cases across a broad spectrum, as well as various past controversies with their own words and writings on these topics- including in relation to their own past conjecture on various possibilities for work. Which is something I greatly appreciate; we love an author, here, who takes responsibility for past works and past mistakes, and openly addresses them in their books (especially when those books are further editions of the original work, so that people continue to get updated information on the same text; we love to see it!).
That being said: I don't know if this book is of much use for anyone who isn't specifically an Aphrodite worshipper or Devotee looking to deepen their practice; while I did find a lot to chew on myself, as someone who always enjoys reading other perspectives from other traditions, that's not true for a lot of people I've found. And so if it's not true for you, either, you likely won't find much use here.
January 28, 2024
One of the most beautiful books I've read on Aphrodite. The two rituals included are gorgeous, especially the mirror ritual. Recommended to all those interested in Aphrodite.
March 16, 2024
Loved learning more about Aphrodite, especially her dark side!
December 14, 2015
Laurelei provides us with an insightful and useful handbook for today's priests/esses of Aphrodite (or those who want to get acquainted with the Goddess). She delves into the historical context of the unfamous ‘sacred prostitution’, today's role of priestesses and continues deepening on the different aspects of the service to the Goddess Aphrodite throughout the books.
From the temple and the liturgy, to much more practical matters, like starting your own group.
Considering the limited amount of sources for devotees of this deity, this as invaluable resource for anyone aiming to develop a personal (or even group) practise in honour of the Kythereia – and a great sources of ideas and insight for those who have been following this path for a long time.
From the temple and the liturgy, to much more practical matters, like starting your own group.
Considering the limited amount of sources for devotees of this deity, this as invaluable resource for anyone aiming to develop a personal (or even group) practise in honour of the Kythereia – and a great sources of ideas and insight for those who have been following this path for a long time.
July 18, 2018
Unmatched intrigue, inspiration and historical account
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews