ANTHESTERION Meaning and
Definition
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Anthesterion is a term derived from ancient Greek, denoting the third month in the Attic calendar, which was used in the city-state of Athens during classical times. In the Athenian calendar, the year was divided into ten months, and Anthesterion typically fell between mid-February and mid-March. The name "Anthesterion" stems from the festival of Anthesteria, which was celebrated during this month and lasted for three days.
The Anthesteria festival was one of the most significant and ancient celebrations in Athens. It was dedicated to Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and celebration, and marked the transition from winter to spring. During this festival, the Athenians would open the jars containing the new wine and partake in various ritualistic activities involving drinking, feasting, and entertainment. The main highlight of the celebration was the "Pithoigia," a ritual during which people would gather to taste the new wine and hold banquets in honor of Dionysus.
Aside from its cultural and religious importance, Anthesterion also had a meteorological significance, as it heralded the arrival of milder weather and the blossoming of flowers. The name itself originates from the Greek words "anthos," meaning flower, and "tero," meaning to flourish. Thus, Anthesterion carried both a seasonal and social significance, marking the end of winter and encouraging the Athenians to come together in joyful revelry.
Etymology of ANTHESTERION
The word "Anthesterion" has its etymology rooted in ancient Greek. It is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "Anthos" meaning "flower" and "Hestia" referring to the Greek goddess of the hearth and home. When combined, "Anthesterion" can be translated as "flower month" or "month of flowers". It is the name of a month in the ancient Athenian calendar.
