ROMAN GODS OF THE MONTH: NOVEMBER

 For Romans, November was the month of community and games. The Ludi Plebeii (The Plebeian Games) in honor of Jupiter Optimus Maximus were held for ten days. I see November as a month to celebrate the community and the blessings of the Gods.

 

In the Roman calendar, there is a lack of festival compared with the other months. Examining various ritual calendars, there appears in each culture at least one month that is “empty.” For example, Shinto has October as the month when all the Gods go to Izumo Shrine. November is a quiet month for Romans. It seems to be the time when people catch their breath after the harvest and before the festivities of December.

 

POMONA: A festival thanking Pomona, the Goddess of Orchards for the ripe fruit is held on November 1.

 

MANIA and DII MANES: The Opening of the Mundus (the Well to the Underworld) is conducted for the third time in the year on November 8.

 

FORTUNA PRIMIGENIA AND FERONIA: On the Ides of November (the 13th), Fortuna Primigenia and Ferona are honored. As the Mother of Juno and Jupiter, Fortuna Primigenia sets the destiny of children at their birth. Meanwhile, Ferona is the Goddess of Agricultural Produce.