![]() Nevertheless, it’s clear that the god of water was revered by both the Romans and Etruscans at similar times. Whilst some have stated that it likely derives from some form of Indo-European, with “Neptu” meaning “moist substance” in that family of languages, and “nebh” connoting a rainy sky, there is also the Etruscan god Nethuns to consider – who himself was a god of wells (and later all water).Īdditionally, there seems to perhaps be some etymological similarities to the Irish god of wells and rivers, although the links are also disputed. The origins of the name “Neptune,” or “Neptunus” are the subject of much scholarly debate, as its exact point of conception remains unclear. ![]() Indeed, Neptune was not part of either the Archaic Triad (of Jupiter, Mars, and Romulus) which was central to the foundation myths of Rome, or the Capitoline Triad (Jupiter, Mars, Minerva) which was fundamental to Roman religious life for centuries. Differences in Prominence and PopularityĮven though this meant he was initially important to these early Roman and Italian peoples, he was actually never to achieve the prominence that Poseidon had in the Greek pantheon, often seen as a number two behind Zeus. Whilst he seems to later take on many of Poseidon’s characteristics – including his origin story – Neptune elsewhere remains decidedly Roman and begins his story as the guarantor of fresh water for fledgling Italian communities. Whilst Poseidon plays a very important part in the genesis of the Greek gods, helping his brothers defeat the Titans and establish their rule over the heavens, earth, and underworld, Neptune heralds from more obscure origins somewhere in Italy (possibly from Etruria or Latium). Areas of OriginĪnother marked difference between Neptune and Poseidon is – their respective origins and civilizations of patronage. Poseidon on the other hand, whilst having specific cult centers, was seen as a god without such geographical specificity. Neptune therefore played a more geographically specific role in the formation of the Roman pantheon and its accompanying myths. Whilst Poseidon is the Greek god of the sea, granted that domain by his brother Zeus after the defeat of their father (along with Hades who acquires the underworld), Neptune was primarily the God of fresh water – so he was accordingly seen as an essential provider of sustenance.įurthermore, fresh water was a very important concern for the early settlers of Latium, the area from which Rome was built and established. One of these differences is what each god officially patronizes. Areas of PatronageĪlthough Neptune is in many ways similar to Poseidon, there are some differences. There are many myths about Neptune, although the Romans often adopted and adapted Greek myths into their own religious practices, giving them a distinct Roman interpretation. ![]() These festivals included offerings and rituals to honor him and seek his protection, particularly during the summer when the weather and sea travel were of utmost importance. Neptune had a number of festivals dedicated to him, such as the Neptunalia, which was celebrated on July 23rd. Neptune’s role as a deity of horses reflects the Romans’ importance of these animals in various aspects of their society, including transportation, agriculture, and warfare. The connection to earthquakes might stem from the idea that his power extended beneath the sea, where earthquakes originate. In addition to his role as the god of the sea, Neptune was also associated with earthquakes and horses. READ MORE: Poseidon’s Trident: A Legendary Weapon of the Sea God In artistic representations, he might be shown riding a chariot pulled by sea horses or other marine creatures. He was also associated with horses, which represented his dominion over both the sea and the land. Neptune was often depicted holding a trident, a three-pronged weapon that symbolized his control over the sea’s waters. Neptune was one of the three major sons of Saturn and Ops ( Cronus and Rhea in Greek mythology) His two brothers were Jupiter – the king of the Roman gods and Pluto – the god of the underworld ( Zeus and Hades in Greek mythology). Sailors and fishermen often prayed to him for safe voyages and good catches. He controlled the waters and was believed to have the power to calm or stir the waves, control the tides, and bring forth storms. In Roman mythology, Neptune was the god of the sea, freshwater bodies, earthquakes, and horses. Growing Assimilations with Poseidon and Consus.Differences in Prominence and Popularity.
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