Phoebe was a prominent Titaness in Greek mythology, associated with prophecy, intellect, and the power of shining light. She was the daughter of Gaia (Earth) and Uranus (Sky), making her one of the twelve original Titans. Her name, derived from the Greek word phoibos meaning "bright" or "radiant," reflects her symbolic connection to wisdom and illumination.
Phoebe was closely tied to the ancient art of prophecy. She was the grandmother of Apollo and Artemis, two major deities closely linked to oracles and divine insight. In some myths, Phoebe was believed to have once held guardianship over the famous Delphic Oracle before passing it to her grandson Apollo, further reinforcing her connection to foresight and enlightenment.
Phoebe married her brother Coeus, the Titan of intellect and the celestial axis. Together, they had two notable daughters: Leto, the mother of Apollo and Artemis, and Asteria, a goddess associated with stars and nocturnal prophecy. Through this lineage, Phoebe’s influence extended to divine wisdom, the moon, and the heavens.
In mythological depictions, Phoebe is often portrayed as a serene, wise figure, symbolizing the power of intuition and mental clarity. While she played a quieter role compared to other Titans, her connection to prophecy and her status as the grandmother of key Olympian gods solidified her importance in Greek mythology as a beacon of intellect, light, and divine insight.