I Misteri della Luna Oscura

by Demetra George

Un appassionante saggio che esplora i misteri e la potenza delle fasi oscure della Luna e ci aiuta a superare i “periodi bui” delle nostre vite con consapevolezza e coraggio verso la rinascita interiore.

Un saggio potente e stimolante che esplora il significato dei “periodi bui” nella vita delle donne, che tradizionalmente intesi come un momento di paura e superstizione, morte e isolamento, rappresentano in realtà un tesoro da sfruttare e un’occasione di crescita e ricchezza interiore.

Indagando il mistero e la sapienza della fase oscura della Luna, l’autrice postula un ritorno dei poteri della Dea nella coscienza attuale delle donne e offre spunti di rinascita e trasformazione per sfruttare i tempi bui con comprensione e coscienza.

Combinando una prospettiva mitica, spirituale e psicologica, svela i poteri oscuri della Dea di cui le donne sono detentrici, affrancandoli dalle immagini oppressive a cui sono stati a lungo associati.

La Luna, Regina della Notte, si protende in tutto il suo splendore verso di noi brillando nei cieli scuri, illuminati solo dal suo bagliore. Ogni notte appare in veste diversa, evocando il mistero che circonda il suo manifestarsi luminoso e oscurato. Chi è questa signora della luna e quali doni offre illuminando le creature sulla terra? E quando ogni mese scompare completamente per diversi giorni, cosa nasconde dietro il suo periodo nero, il suo periodo più segreto?

I Misteri della Luna Oscura cercherà di svelare il segreto della fase oscura e misteriosa della luna attraverso l’esplorazione del simbolismo mitologico, psicologico e spirituale dell’oscurità lunare. Se saremo fortunate, quello che scopriremo potrà aiutarci a lasciar andare la nostra paura del buio.

Il titolo di questo libro non è stato scelto arbitrariamente. La parola “mistero” deriva dall’inglese medio misterie o mysterie, dal latino mysterium e dai due termini greci musterion (“rito segreto”) e mustes (“chi è iniziato ai riti segreti”). La parola “luna” [moon in inglese N.d.T.] deriva dalla radice indoeuropea me- e la sua forma estesa e il suo suffisso meri-, men-en-, men-s-, men-ot- hanno il significato di mese (un’antica e universale unità di misura del tempo, misurata dai corpi celesti). “Oscura” ha la connotazione di torbido, offuscato o, in qualche caso, nascosto.

Una traduzione letterale del titolo di questo libro può essere letta come “I riti segreti del periodo nascosto del mese”, che rappresenta difatti l’essenza di questo libro: uno specifico aspetto dei cicli della vita, il periodo oscuro, qui simboleggiato dalla fase oscura della luna.

Genres: Astrology, Spirituality, Nonfiction, Mythology, Goddess, Feminism, Witchcraft

314 pages, Paperback

First published May 22, 1992

About the author

Demetra George, M.A. Classics, received the 2002 Regulus Award for Theory and Understanding. A practitioner of astrology for over 30 years specializing in archetypal mythology, she has authored numerous books and articles, including Astrology For Yourself, Asteroid Goddesses, and Mysteries of the Dark Moon. She lectures internationally and leads pilgrimages to the sacred sites in the Mediterranean. Currently she is translating a corpus of hermetic medical astrological texts from ancient Greek, is an associate of Project Hindsight, and teaches the history of ancient and medieval astrology and Hellenistic techniques.

From mysite.verizon.net/vzep4b1c/ggastro.c...

Reviews

[Katrina Dreamer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found so much amazing information in this book and it came to me just at the right time. I especially found her discussion on menstruation and its connections with the dark goddess illuminating (pun intended).

[Elena Rego · Rating 4 out of 5]

In truth I would give this book a 3.5, but nostalgia has me rounding up on this one.

This book was written in 1992, so it's dated when it comes to matters of gender and the dialogue around the metaphor of Maiden, Mother, Crone as ascribed to the phases of the moon.

That said, it's is DENSE with information on our archeological history, a broader look and context for matters on Matriarchy and Patriarchy, which I feel can be incredibly helpful information

Her knowledge of historical astrology is staggering and if any of you are interested in a more in-depth view of astrological ananysis beyond the popular forecasting, this book is incredible.

I first read this book in 2002 and just reread it and I still recommend it despite its being a bit dated and despite the fact that what I got from it then is different than what I got from now.

I'm not into disclaimers, however, if you can't read a dated book and take what is relevant to you and leave the rest, don't read it. Especially when it comes to gender issues. This book is a product of it's time, but still well referenced and filled with much to learn.

[Gaijinmama · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some beautiful myths and meditations here , and I very much agree that we should get in touch with and not suppress our dark sides (yeah we all have a dark side, like it or not) but I just can't get past the misinformation. Sorry, folks, no way were 9 million women or even 9 million PEOPLE burned in Europe in the Middle Ages.
Considering the population at the time it wouldn't have been possible.

[daemyra, the realm's delight · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must-read. Great for anyone interested in the feminine shadow and unpacking myths from a dark goddess perspective. As a Classical Studies major, the research into the Eleusinian Mysteries was top-tier, reminded me of some of my studies as a student. Not too many astrology/esoterica books have made me feel that. I loved that George was ready with references on Homeric Hymns or relating source material.

Another review on here makes the good point that this was published in the 1990s and if you can’t handle the book being “dated”, don’t read it. This book is for connecting to the fullness of femininity, not just what is palatable or acceptable in patriarchy (the nubile maiden, the fertile mother of service).

To be honest, it could be argued that the book was radical for its time. It did not hate on men, even as it stated the ills of patriarchy that cannot be denied.

[Kelly Miess · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars. A fantastic exploration of the most recent long-term feminine/masculine or matriarchy/patriarchy cycle with a particular emphasis and unique perspective on the demise of matriarchy and the rise of patriarchy some 5000 years ago. The books shines light on this topic in a way I have not been exposed to before and provides a new perspective for those, like me, who are mourning the death and praying for the rebirth of our planet and it's inhabitants. The book also provides an in-depth exploration of the lunar cycle and its dark phases in particular. Several of the dark moon phase goddesses are explored in depth. Recommended for anyone interested in mythology, magic, astrology, spirituality, history or general mind-expanding.

[Jessica Donegan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pros and Cons to this book. The mythology was enjoyable and some of the journal questions were really good. I love the idea of this book. Describing, exploring, and otherwise reclaiming what people consider dark periods of time. Reframing the dark moon to correspond to times of healing and growth.

The execution wasn't my cup of tea. It speaks in depth about a time when humanity fell under a matriarchy instead of a patriarchy ruling system. I enjoy many female myths, including ones about ancient matriarchies. I don't think it's right to misconstrue them as a historical fact. There's never been some ancient matriarchy, no matter how much 2nd wave feminism and Neo-pagan/Wicca-ish groups would like there to be. I found myself putting aside interesting musings to try and see if George sites her claims about the matriarchy and then looking up those histories.

The book has a very Wicca-ish mentality. It also holds a pantheistic "all gods of a certain type are the same" mentality and doesn't respect the individuality of these mythic beings. Even if we see these representations as purely fictional, it's a little like claiming Hercules and Captain America are the same guy because they are both strong and strive to protect others.

None of these views are bad, but they are not for me.

[Denise Hancock · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to love this book, but I found it difficult to stay focused and read it. I’m not a fan of the author’s writing style. It seemed highly subjective, although presented as solid evidence.

The concept and mythology were interesting. The content was often repetitive, and maybe stronger editing would be helpful.

[Saffron · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book for women? Yes, certainly but empathetic men will also gain a lot from this very deep dive into the mysteries of the Dark Goddess.

Demetra George is known mainly for her work in astrology, this is not one of those books, so beware, if you think that is what you will be getting.

What this book does in great depth is bring the myths from a number of traditions to then explain how women have been placed in society. For many women, they are not aware of their strengths, how to use them, or how to be comfortable with them. This book will hopefully help all readers to find a story that suits their needs for healing, transformation and, passing on knowledge to future generations.

The history is very well researched, and a large section at the beginning is dedicated towards this, I found this very interesting, it may not be everyone's cup of tea though. Then the sections on various Goddesses and how to integrate the stories is discussed in great length. For me, this was the only issue, it got a bit repetitive and that could put people off of carrying through to the end. That would be a shame, as the content is invaluable for women in all stages of life. A bit more editing would have been helpful. Otherwise, very enlightening, and a great source of information on women's ancient history.

[Lenno Vranken · Rating 3 out of 5]

Waw, wat duurde het lang vooraleer ik deze uit had!
Het boek was erg langdradig en er werd ongelofelijk veel informatie herhaald. Hierdoor kreeg ik het gevoel dat dit boek minstens honderd pagina's dunner had mogen zijn...
Desondanks heb ik wel wat opgestoken van wat ik heb gelezen. Helaas niet zoveel over hekserij en Wicca, maar wel over hoe het is om een vrouw te zijn op deze wereld. Ik dacht dat ik hier al een idee over had, maar dit boek liet mij inzien dat er nog veel meer problemen zijn waarmee vrouwen in deze eeuw te maken krijgen.
Soms bespreek ik sommige dingen die ik heb gelezen in dit boek met mijn vriendinnen en zij zijn altijd verrast door wat ik zeg, alsof ze het vreemd vinden dat een jongen hen zo goed begrijpt. Daarvoor geef ik dit boek dus de drie sterren.

[Yvonne van der Fluit · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lot of deep information about some of the goddesses linked to the moon. Stories of their lives throughout the years. A understanding in the female cycle and the magic it holds. It was a difficult book to get through as I am not good remmembering dates and historical names. Reading it to the end was worth it.

[Cyndi Brannen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely recommended for anyone curious about the meaning underneath the way the Dark Goddess has been experience and portrayed throughout history. An insightful, intellectual and mindful exploration of the many faces and mysteries of the dark lunar feminine.

[Bailey D · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book changed the way I think about myself and the world. While there is not a lot of reliable evidence in the book & I haven't been able to confirm if the original matriarchies she talked about were real besides potentially the Minoans of Greece (seems like she focuses most on the Greek traditions), I still think the thought processes she poses in this book about cyclical thinking and emphasizing the natural processes of life that we've been socialized to undervalue are absolutely mind-blowing. I feel so empowered in recognizing how much women have been taught to undervalue our own power!! HIGHLY recommend this book to every woman in my life - interpret the evidence with a grain of salt BUT try to digest what she's saying. Literally changed my life. Thanks Demetra George!!

[Lindsey · Rating 2 out of 5]

I picked up this book to try to get in touch with my own inner darkness and do shadow work. Unfortunately, this is a poorly researched and repetitive book that sought to make the same point that could have been summed in 50 pages or less. Some of the allegory and imagery was nice which was the only reason it got a 2 over 1.

[Lauren Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, that was wonderfully informative and thought-provoking. I do wish every person who believed that only their way was the truth would read this. It might rattle a few cages, in the best possible way.

[Ditte · Rating 2 out of 5]

Interesting concept, but badly executed. This book is mainly about "dark" goddesses and inaccurate history. There were some interesting tidbits... but the book does definitely not deliver in what it sets out to do: to heal through the darkness in yourself.

[Carrie · Rating 3 out of 5]

There is some good info in here, but it didn't work for me as a read from front to back type of book. I recommend picking it up and doing some bibliomancy. Read what works, leave the rest.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

A classic revisited. As good as ever

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Exploring the mystery, wisdom and power of the dark phases of the moon's cycle- a lunar based model for moving through the dark times in our lives with understanding, consciousness and faith in renewal.'

I absolutely loved this book! I saw a review of this book on Google Play Books and I can definitely agree with the review that mentioned this book would have rattled more than a few cages and maybe even change the perceptions that are often associated with the Dark Goddess. This book included history and some visuals of the Dark Moon phases, Triple Moon phases and of course various Dark Goddesses such as Nyx, Nemesis, Hecate, Lilith and many more!

This book is definitely thought provoking and it goes to show that there is more to history than just one choice of faith alone.

In the blurb of this book, it says "Demetra George combines psychological, mythical, and spiritual perspective on the shadowy, feminine symbolism of the dark moon to reclaim the datkness for opressive, fear based images. George offers rites for rebirth and transformation that teach us to tap into the power of our dark times, maximizing the potential to renewal inherent for our inevitbale periods of loss, depression and anger." I definitely agree with this and this is a book that I have not been able to put down, it was included as a resource in two other books that I have read this year alone for my spirirual journey of working with the Dark Goddess and working on myself as an individual.

This is a book that I will definitely reach for again.

The other books that have included this book as a resource are:
Jane Meredith (Moon Books, 2012), Journey to the Dark Goddess: How to Return to Your Soul and Frances Billinghurst (Moon Books, 2021), Encountering the Dark Goddess: A Journey into the Shadow Realms

[JustaReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I find this book, unexpectedly, great!

Even if you are into something special, but atm there is nothing to read - check this book, or of lazy, try hear audiobook (narrator is great).

This book doesn't feel like astrology at all, it is more close to a reminder that we are physical living things > floating on a physical round rock > in some space > with other bodies/planets in that space and its magnetic or else fields etc. and everything is influencing everything. Humanity just tries to pack this all into "words".

I'm 30+male with sleep disorder, started about 2 years ago. First thing I thought.. write down dates, what happened during the day before, what could trigger nightmares or insomnia (+ is it still disturbing memories?)
After just 3-4 nightmares/insomnia records, it was clear that I'm having these nights every new moon. This slapped me and reminded that our "minds, worries, self talking, words, others words" is nothing against physical reality which really affects everyone.

[Kristi Hovington · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was in a bookshop the other day with a friend, and this book called to me. I am a superfan of mythology, but had never heard of some of my favourite ancient deities - Medusa, Hekate, Kali, Nyx, Athena, Lilith - being referred to as dark moon goddesses. This is more of an examination of how these women fit into the stories we tell ourselves, from matriarchal societies to present times, and how the images and stories of these women shifted as men came in power, and new, patriarchal religions flourished. I particularly loved the parts where the author brought in Freud, Jung, and Campbell's analysis, and I loved the chapters on Nyx and Lilith, whom I knew about but not in depth. The triplicate nature of Nyx, in particular, and the triplicate nature of her daughters (the furies, the fates, etc.), and how that aligns with the triplicate cycles of the moon, is intriguing.

[Mylifethroughmovements · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interessant boek doordat er verrassende vergelijkingen worden gemaakt met verschillende symbolen (zoals bijvoorbeeld de slang die wordt gelinkt aan Lillith, Eva, Kundallini, seksualiteit, medicijnen en (menstruatie)bloed). Wel zitten er hier en daar onnodige herhalingen in (of dit aan de vertaling ligt of niet weet ik niet) en is de tekst soms verwarrend doordat er teveel invloeden worden aangehaald om een specifiek idee of een bepaalde visie te benadrukken. Maar over het algemeen wel een aanrader als je geïnteresseerd bent in schaduwwerk, het onderdrukte vrouwelijke alsook mythologische verhalen met vrouwen in de hoofdrol (Demeter, Lillith, Medusa, Persephone, de schikgodinnen, etc.).

[Sharlyn Zimmerman-Tollefson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I listened to it as an audiobook and I found it extremely long to listen to. It went into so much more detail and history than I was interested in, becoming a real challenge to complete. I borrowed it at least and still struggled to complete it. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone who isn't deeply into studying this subject, too much for me and I take courses online and study all the time. Disappointed.

[Sigrid · Rating 4 out of 5]

I find much of the author’s rhetoric and “facts” stated problematic and this book is ridiculously redundant. This alone would make it a 3-star (maybe even a 2-star) review. The book’s redeeming qualities, however, were that George compiles a great many of the Dark Goddess myths that paint a sufficient picture of what a “Persephone’s Child” may look like. I managed to withhold judgment and overlook on the irritating parts of the author’s style and found the nuggets useful to me.

[Rae Gholson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a great book!! I highly recommend it. I do feel as though maybe up to a quarter of the book could've been eliminated because I felt like some of the text was redundant or repetitive, which is why I didn't give this 5 stars... But the bulk of the book is wonderful and I'm so happy to have read it.

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actual rating:4.5

This book was JAM PACKED WITH INFORMATION. I mean my goodness! She explained pretty much everything that pertained to the moon, the dark phase of healing, and incorporated several archetypal figures and their backgrounds which I loved. There were times when the material got too dense for me that I found it to be boring (especially in the beginning) but it gets better!

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved engaging with the dark goddess, delving in to the history of how things were to where things are today. This is a great read if you want to be introduced to the dark goddess and learn about the moons cycles and how they correlate to a woman's menstrual cycle.

[Liz Thoth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic book detailing the rise and fall of the divine feminine throughout history. Uses archetypes, and phases of the moon that directly correspond to aspects and hidden subconscious influences in our lives and our planet. This is a great book for healing and shadow work.

[Colubrina Laticauda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Davvero bello. Denso, ricco di informazioni su divinità rappresentanti il lato femminile che meno piace, ma assolutamente importante.
Interessantissima anche la parte sull'andamento delle ere dal punto di vista astrologico.

[Maranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book that examines the ancient goddess religions that predated our more current patriarchal religions. These matriarchal cultures worshipped a great goddess that later goddesses are derived from. Very interesting read for anyone interested in women’s studies and mythology!

[Megan Thomas · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting delve into the Dark Goddesses and how they came to be known as such.

Demetra spent a lot of time explaining the phases of the moon and how this coincides with the divine feminine. This text was a bit dated, but still enjoyable nonetheless!