Iris
The Greek Goddess of the Rainbow and Divine Messages
Gemstone: Opal
Attributes: Opal, with its iridescent play of colours, mirrors the rainbow hues of Iris’ celestial path. Known as the stone of insight and communication, Opal enhances intuition, creative expression, and clarity in both speech and thought.
Manifestation Point: Communication and Clarity
Affirmation: "I express myself clearly and openly, bridging worlds with my words."
Iris, the Greek goddess of the rainbow, is a celestial messenger and a divine link between the heavens and the earth. She is the daughter of Thaumas (a sea god) and Electra (a cloud nymph), making her a being of both water and sky. Unlike Hermes, who carried messages with speed and wit, Iris conveyed pure, unfiltered truth, ensuring that messages from the gods reached their recipients with clarity and grace.
She played a crucial role in many myths, particularly those involving Hera, to whom she was a devoted servant. She was also called upon during times of prophecy and prayer, carrying the thoughts and wishes of mortals to the gods. In some traditions, Iris was believed to guide the souls of women to the afterlife, much like Hermes did for men.
Her essence is one of communication, intuition, and divine alignment, reminding us that when we seek guidance, the universe will always respond.
Iris is described as fleet-footed, often depicted with golden wings and a flowing robe, streaking across the sky like a rainbow. She would travel on the arc of the rainbow, a bridge between the mortal and divine realms, delivering guidance, warnings, and sacred knowledge. Her presence was considered a sign of divine favour, connection, and enlightenment.
Iris’ Symbols and Associations
As a goddess of messages, colour, and celestial guidance, Iris is linked to:
The Rainbow 🌈 — Representing divine connection, transformation, and hope.
Golden Wings 🪽 — Symbolising swiftness and heavenly communication.
The Iris Flower 🌺 — Named after her, the flower is a sign of wisdom, eloquence, and trust.
Water and Clouds ☁️💧 — Reflecting her ability to move between realms, carrying messages.
She is the goddess of divine synchronicities, intuition, and meaningful connections—a bridge between what is spoken and what is truly understood.
Manifesting with Opal
To embrace Iris’ energy of clear communication and divine connection, use Opal in a manifestation ritual:
Cleansing the Stone: Place Opal in fresh rainwater or near a rainbow (or prism light) to align it with Iris’ celestial energy.
Setting Intentions: Hold the stone while visualising a bridge forming between you and the guidance you seek, whether from within or from the universe.
Daily Affirmation: Carry or wear Opal while reciting:
"I express myself clearly and openly, bridging worlds with my words."Rainbow Ritual: After a rain shower or by using a prism, meditate on the light spectrum, asking for divine insight and clarity in your path.
Caring for Opal Jewellery
To preserve Opal’s ethereal beauty and energetic properties:
Avoid Excess Water: Opals contain water and should not be soaked or exposed to harsh moisture.
Store Separately: Opals are delicate and should be kept away from harder gemstones to prevent scratching.
Recharge with Light: Place Opal near a prism or in soft morning light to maintain its vibrancy.
Why Iris Inspires Us
Iris teaches us that our words carry weight, our intentions shape reality, and clarity in communication is a form of divine magic. She reminds us that when we seek guidance, the universe will answer—whether through dreams, intuition, or the synchronicities we encounter daily.
Her connection to Opal enhances her gifts of expression, wisdom, and divine messages, making her an inspiring force for those who seek to speak their truth, connect with higher wisdom, and embrace the power of clear, authentic communication.
By honouring Iris, we learn to trust the messages we receive, to find beauty in transitions, and to embrace the vibrant spectrum of life’s experiences.
Poem for Iris
Across the sky, her colours rise,
A streak of gold through misted skies.
Her voice is soft, yet clear and bright,
A guide through shadow into light.
She brings the words, the truth untold,
A whisper laced in hues of gold.
Iris speaks where hearts align,
A bridge between the mortal and divine.
