May is named after the Greek Goddess Maia, who was the mother of Hermes. She was also a fertility goddess and is associated with spring, new life and of course, fertility. She was believed to have a heart that was gentle and pure through her goodness, caused flowers to bloom in springtime. According to the book Goddess Inspiration Oracle, The name "Maia" means "The Maker." Maia was identified with the Roman goddess Bona Dea who was also a fertility goddess. The festival for Bona Dea was held in the month of May.
"The name of Maia, the Greek goddess of spring and rebirth, means "the maker." Every spring this goddess is believed to make the grass and flowers grow again. She is also praised as the grandmother of magic because her son, the god Hermes, discovered that mysterious art.
Mai by Alphonse Mucha
"Shy Maia was said to live alone in a cave on Mount Cyllene in Arcadia. Though she led a humble life, she did not escape notice: the god Zeus observed Maia's extraordinary beauty and came to her one night. From this nocturnal encounter, Maia conceived Hermes. As soon as he was born, Maia immediately knew her son was a genius. While still a baby, Hermes created the fist lyre by stretching strings across a tortoise shell and the first panpipe from marsh reeds. Besides being the first magician, Hermes is credited with the invention of medicine, astrology and letters."
Though May is associated with spring in the northern hemisphere, it falls during the autumn season for those living in the southern hemisphere.
Mai was the eldest daughter of Atlas and Pleione and with her sisters were referred to as "The Pleiades."
You may see a video documentary that discusses Greek gods and goddesses, including Maia below.
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