The Flashing Goddesses

[icymist]

Common myths and images can be found running through various cultures and spiritual beliefs around the world. One of the more curious ones involves stories of despair where a goddess brought about laughter, healing and hope... by lifting her skits and baring her vulva. These stories and some cultural carvings showing similar action all relate to fertility.

This action is often called the “Baubo gesture” and that names comes from the story of the goddess by the same name. The myth of Demeter and Persephone is tied to the seasons. Captured by Hades, Persephone has been spirited to the Underworld, and her mother is looking for her everywhere. Having looked everywhere, Demeter despairs, and the world is stricken bare, with cold weather and no crops growing. The goddess Baubo approaches Demeter and attempts to cheer her up. According to the myth, she dances and tells bawdy jokes. Having caught Demeter’s attention finally, Baubo lifts up her skirts and flashes her vulva at the goddess.
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