Its best-known mythological story is Inanna's descent into the underworld. In this tale, the goddess embarks on a dangerous journey in which she must shed all her royal symbols - her crown, her jewelry and her clothes - in order to enter the underworld.

There she meets Ereshkigal, the goddess of the underworld, and experiences death before she is resurrected. This story is symbolic of death, transformation and rebirth. It reminds us that personal growth is often linked to letting go of the old and that challenges can lead us to new strength.

The symbolism of Inanna and the lion

The lion is one of the central symbols of the goddess Inanna. It is often depicted at her side, both as a companion and as a sign of her power. The lion represents strength, courage and control over wild, untamed forces. In Sumerian art, Inanna often sits on a lion or is flanked by lions, symbolizing her ability to tame chaos and demonstrate her authority over life and death.

The connection between Inanna and the lion shows that true power lies not in suppression, but in balance. The lion is a symbol of the ability to act courageously, but also to treat the forces of nature - and one's own inner self - with respect.

For us today, the lion at Inanna's side can be an inspiring symbol. It stands for the fact that we can overcome our inner fears and find our strength. Just as Inanna tamed her lion, we too can learn to reconcile our inner contradictions and challenges.

Goddess Inanna's significance for the present day

Inanna's stories teach us that opposites such as love and strength, gentleness and determination belong together.

In our modern world, where we are often asked to commit ourselves to one role - be it the career woman, the caring mother or the strong lone warrior - Inanna reminds us that we are allowed to live all our facets. She shows that being gentle is not a weakness and that strength does not always have to be loud.

The story of her descent into the underworld invites you to confront your own shadow sides. Transformation and growth often come through difficult times. Inanna reminds you that every crisis also offers an opportunity for renewal. The greatest strength usually grows out of the most difficult moments.

My picture "Inanna & The Lion"

My painting Inanna & The Lion was inspired by this powerful goddess and her symbolism. It shows the connection between Inanna and her inner and outer strength, represented by the lion.

I have deliberately only hinted at Inanna's crown - it consists of fine golden lines that emphasize its significance as a symbol of inner power. This depiction shows that true strength is not attached to external trappings or material things. Each of us carries an inner crown that we can discover through self-discovery and overcoming our challenges.

The modern elements of the painting - spray paint and colorful, high-contrast details - combine ancient symbolism with our modern times. The main color palette, a strong red/pink and a bright green, stands for the opposites that Inanna embodies: Passion and balance, life and transformation. These contrasts come together on the canvas and remind us that opposites do not always divide, but often belong together.

Fate and the messages from Inanna invite you to pause and reflect on how you Find your own inner alchemy how you can bring all your facets into harmony and live your true potential.