The Melissae Bee Priestess of ancient Greece and adjacent regions was revered and extremely powerful. These priestesses were deeply connected to the natural world, particularly to bees and their divine symbolism. Their name derives from ‘Melissa,’ meaning honeybee in Greek, and they served various goddesses including Demeter, Persephone, Gaia, Artemis of Ephesus, Aphrodite, and the pre-Greek goddess Cybele. Their roles were multifaceted, encompassing spiritual guidance, oracular practices, and guardianship of nature’s mysteries.
Jump to the Melissae Bee Priestess Tarot Spread
In their service to these goddesses, the Melissae acted as conduits of divine wisdom by engaging in sacred rituals that bridged the mortal and divine realms. They were also expert herbalists, with a particular affinity for Melissa officinalis, commonly known as Lemon Balm. They used this herb to attract bees since Lemon Balm contains chemicals that are similar to bee pheromones.

The Melissae and the Eleusinian Mysteries
The Melissae played a crucial role in the Eleusinian Mysteries, one of the most revered and secretive initiation rites of the ancient world. During these ceremonies, they were responsible for preparing and administering the kykeon, a potent sacred drink that could induce mystical experiences. Their presence and guidance were integral to the initiates’ journey through these profound spiritual rites, ensuring the sanctity and secrecy of the rituals.
Beyond their ritual duties, the Melissae were deeply involved in bee-keeping and honey production. These practices were not merely practical but were imbued with spiritual significance. Honey, the ‘food of the gods,’ was seen as a sacred substance, and its production was a holy act. Honey flavoured both the ambrosia and the nectar the gods ate and drank to stay eternally young.
Modern Melissae
In modern times, the concept of bee priestesses and shamanic practices has experienced a revival, albeit in forms that are largely contemporary interpretations of historical accounts and personal spiritual experiences. Modern practitioners draw on the symbolism and ecological importance of bees to create spiritual practices that honour these creatures and their connection to the divine feminine.
These contemporary practices often emphasise the importance of bee conservation and ecological awareness. Practitioners view their spiritual work as intrinsically linked to the protection of bees and their habitats, recognising the crucial role these pollinators play in maintaining the balance of nature.
Modern bee-centric spiritual practices may include meditation and visualisation exercises focused on bees, the study of bee behaviour and ecology as a form of spiritual insight, and the creation of rituals that honour bees and their connection to the divine. Some practitioners use bee products such as honey, beeswax, and propolis in healing practices and rituals, always with an emphasis on ethical sourcing and respect for the bees.
The symbolism of bees in various cultures and mythologies is also a rich area of exploration for modern practitioners. From ancient Egypt to Celtic lore, bees have held significant spiritual meaning across diverse traditions, providing a wealth of material for contemplation and inspiration.
Ways to Become Involved:
- Study historical and well-researched fictional accounts of bee priestesses. I’m currently reading ‘The Bee Priestess‘ by A. Fisher, a wonderfully engaging novel about a young Bee Priestess.
- Learn about bee ecology and conservation
- Practice mindful beekeeping (not every modern Bee Priestess can or will want to do this, nor is it necessary)
- Engage in meditation and visualisation practices focused on bees
- Create or participate in rituals honouring bees and nature
- Use bee-related herbs in personal spiritual practices
- Support local beekeepers and bee-friendly initiatives
- Explore symbolism artistic expressions inspired by bees and their spiritual significance
Those drawn to this path often find that it deepens their connection not only to bees but to the natural world as a whole. The practices encourage a heightened awareness of ecological issues and often lead to active involvement in conservation efforts. Whether through personal spiritual practices, community rituals, or practical conservation work, modern bee priestesses and shamans seek to honour the ancient wisdom of the Melissae. They also work hard to protect the bees from the use of toxic pesticides and corporate greed.
While the exact practices of the ancient Melissae are unknown, the spirit of their reverence for nature and the divine feminine continues to inspire and guide those who feel the bees calling to them. I feel that those of us who have had one or more past lives as Bee Priestesses have incarnated at this time to bring some of these practices back.
The Melissae Bee Priestess Tarot Spread

- The Bee’s Call: Your current connection to the divine feminine and nature’s wisdom
- Nectar of Knowledge: Hidden talents or skills you can develop to serve your community
- Hive Mind: How to better connect with and contribute to your community’s collective wisdom
- Sacred Brew: Personal transformations needed to deepen your spiritual practice
- Keeper of Mysteries: Your role in preserving and sharing ancient or forgotten knowledge
- Pollinator’s Path: Ways to spread positivity and nurture growth in your environment
- Queen’s Chamber: Accessing and embodying divine feminine leadership qualities
- Honey of Healing: How to use your gifts to help others
- Eleusinian Echo: The lasting impact your service will have on your community and beyond
To use this spread:
- Set your intention, focusing on connecting with the Melissae’s spirit of service and the Divine Feminine.
- As you lay out each card, reflect on its position’s meaning to your journey as a modern bee priestess or bee shaman.
- Consider how each card’s message can guide you in deepening your connection to nature, particularly bees, and your community.
- After the reading, meditate on the insights gained, perhaps incorporating the scent of lemon balm or the taste of honey to enhance the connection.
- Based on the guidance received, plan concrete actions to serve your community and protect nature, especially bees.
- Express gratitude to the spirit of the Melissae and the Divine Feminine for the wisdom shared.
This spread can help you explore your potential as a conduit of divine wisdom, a guardian of nature’s mysteries, and a force for positive change in your community.
Melissae Bee Priestess Sample Tarot Reading

1. The Bee’s Dance – The World
Your connection to the divine feminine and nature’s wisdom is profound and all-encompassing. The World signifies a sense of completion and wholeness in your spiritual journey. You’ve gained a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all things, making you well-prepared to embrace the role of a modern Bee Priestess. With the Saturn correspondence for this card, there could be a Past Life link to your calling in this lifetime.
3. Nectar of Knowledge – Page of Cups
Your hidden talent lies in your emotional intuition and creative expression. The Page of Cups suggests a natural ability to connect with others on an emotional level. Develop this gift by exploring artistic pursuits or intuitive practices that can benefit your community, such as art therapy, divination or spiritual counselling.
3. Hive Mind – Queen of Pentacles
To contribute to your community’s collective wisdom, embody the nurturing and practical aspects of the Queen of Pentacles. Focus on creating tangible, sustainable solutions that support both spiritual and material well-being. Your ability to manage resources efficiently will be crucial in community service projects.
4. Sacred Brew – Page of Wands
The personal transformation needed to deepen your spiritual practice involves embracing enthusiasm and a sense of adventure. The Page of Wands encourages you to approach your spiritual journey with fresh eyes and an open mind. Be willing to explore new practices and teachings related to the Bee Priestess tradition.
5. Keeper of Mysteries – Knight of Wands
Your role in preserving and sharing ancient knowledge involves being a dynamic and inspiring messenger. Use your passion and charisma to spark interest in others about the wisdom of the Melissae and the importance of bee conservation. Your Knight of Wands energy can ignite a movement in your community.
6. Pollinator’s Path – Temperance
To spread positivity and nurture growth in your environment, focus on balance and moderation. Like Temperance, blend different elements harmoniously. Find the middle path between spiritual practices and practical action, creating a nurturing atmosphere for both personal and community growth. Using a more literal interpretation, you can see this card as relating to learning how to make the modern-day equivalent of kykeon.
7. Queen’s Chamber – The Magician
In accessing and embodying divine feminine leadership qualities, channel the power of The Magician. You have all the tools and resources needed to manifest positive change. Trust in your ability to transform ideas into reality, using your voice, will and intention to lead and inspire others.
8. Honey of Healing – The Hanged Man
To use your gifts for healing others, embrace the wisdom of The Hanged Man. Sometimes, healing comes through surrender and a shift in perspective. Offer others the gift of seeing their challenges from a new angle. Your ability to pause and reflect deeply can bring profound healing to those around you.
9. Eleusinian Echo – 8 of Swords
The lasting impact of your service may initially feel constrained or limited, as suggested by the 8 of Swords. However, this card also indicates that these limitations are largely self-imposed or based on false perceptions. Your work as a modern Bee Priestess has the potential to free both yourself and others from restrictive thinking patterns, ultimately leading to significant positive change in your community and beyond.
Have you had a past life as a Bee Priestess or are you drawn to this path for unknown reasons? I’d love to hear from you in the comments!
If you would like to explore how to use the Tarot to tap into Bee Spirituality further, check out THIS POST.
