Neptune

Culture: Ancient Roman   Domain: The sea, fresh water, horses

Neptune parallels Poseidon closely but was originally more associated with fresh water before absorbing the sea domain, likely through contact with Greek religion; his festival, the Neptunalia, was celebrated in the heat of summer, when Romans sought relief near water. He remains linked to horses and horse-racing, as Poseidon was.

Associations

The sea, fresh water and springs, horses, relief from summer heat.

Ways people honor him (modern)

• Seek out water, sea or fresh, especially in summer
• Offer thanks before boating, swimming, or sea travel
• Support ocean or waterway conservation
• Read about the Neptunalia and its midsummer timing

Approach any deity with respect and do your own research. Practices vary widely between traditions, and modern devotional practice often goes beyond what survives in ancient sources.