Originally the ‘box’ was a pithos, an earthware jar used to store food and to bury the dead. Yet even this late story has symbolic overtones that point to Pandora’s earlier identity with the earth mother. Only one being, the hope Goddess Spes, remained in the box to comfort us.

But, too curious to obey, She did so, and all the evils that afflict humanity escaped to run rampant through the world. Gifted with all talents, the most beautiful creature imaginable, She was given a box and instructed never to open it. Later, as Greek society changed, She became the evil Eve of their legend, the one who brought all sorrow to earth. She was also called Anesidora (‘sender-forth of gifts’) and shown as a gigantic woman rising from the earth while little men opened Her way with hammer-blows. Patricia Monaghan states: “Originally was ‘rich in gifts,’ the ‘all-giver’, the earth in female form, endlessly producing food for people and animals the name may have been a title of the Greek Gaia. (Patricia Telesco, “365 Goddess: a daily guide to the magic and inspiration of the goddess”.) The token for hope, however, in the tradition of Pandora, never leaves the box, so that will always be part of your home.” When a wish is fulfilled, carry the corresponding token to keep that energy with you or give it to someone who needs that specific vibration in their life. Decorate the exterior lavishly and leave it in a special place with a candle that you can light briefly each day.

Also place therein one object, herb, or stone to represent hope (basil and amethyst are two good choices). Fill it with special cloth and trinkets that represent your goal(s). In keeping with this tradition, with a uniquely magical twist, make a special wish box for yourself or your family today. This is how we come by the tradition of Christmas bonuses! Unlike modern connotations of putting away boxes, the name for this holiday, Boxing Day, came from the old custom of tradespeople and servants carrying boxes today to receive gratuities. And even when the evils of the world threaten, let us not forget that Pandora’s box still, and always, holds hope. Unlike the later associations with Pandora, this Goddess’s name means ‘all-giver’ or ‘sender of gifts’. “Pandora’s themes are hope, prosperity and wishes.

Anesidora myth