Triglav
Three-Headed Union of Deities
Domains
- Heaven, Earth & Underworld
- Unity & Balance
- War & Protection
- Divine Wisdom
Symbols
- Three Heads
- Golden Veil
- Black Horse
- Mountain Peaks
Description
Triglav, meaning "Three-Headed", represented the union of three major Slavic deities governing the three realms: heaven, earth, and underworld. His three heads symbolized omniscience and dominion over all aspects of existence.
The main center of Triglav's worship was in Szczecin (modern Poland), where a magnificent temple housed his golden idol. Priests interpreted his will through the behavior of a sacred black horse.
Mythology
According to legends, Triglav's three heads were covered with a golden veil to prevent him from seeing human sins. The heads represented the three realms he governed: Perun (heaven), Svarog (earth), and Veles (underworld).
Triglav was believed to ride a black horse that could traverse all three worlds. Warriors sought his blessing before battles, as he could see past, present and future simultaneously.
Worship
Triglav's temple in Szczecin received a tenth of all war spoils. The idol was made of wood with golden details, and its eyes and mouth were covered with a golden veil except during ceremonies.
Divination rituals involved leading a black horse over crossed spears - if it stepped with the right foot first, it signaled Triglav's approval for military campaigns or other undertakings.