Janus
Janus, the Roman god of beginnings and endings, embodied transitions and doorways. He reigned over time itself, Janus Bifrons, the two-faced god, symbolizing the past and future gazing upon each other.
Residence: At the limits of Earth, at the extremity of the Heavens
Symbols: Two faces
Parents: Terra and Caelus
Siblings: Camese, Ops, Saturn
Consort: Camese
Children: Aithex, Canens, Fontus, Olistene, Tiberinus
Other Names: Ianuspater (Janus Father), Ianus Quadrifrons (Janus Fourfaced), Ianus Bifrons (Two-faced Janus)
Often depicted with two faces, Janus symbolized the past and future looking upon each other, a constant reminder of his all-encompassing influence. It’s conventionally thought that the month of January, the gateway to a new year, is named for this multifaceted god, a fitting tribute to his role over beginnings.
He wasn’t just the god of doorways and gates; he was the guardian of transitions in all aspects of life. This included the momentous shift from peace to war, reflected in the opening of the gates named after him during times of conflict. Their closing, a rare occurrence, marked the return of peace.
Janus’ influence extended to the beginnings of human life, presiding over childbirth. He was also associated with journeys and the exchange of goods, aligning him with Portunus, the god of harbors and gateways. Through this connection, Janus became a protector of travelers, traders, and shipping.
