Deities & Entities That Represent Disabilities

This list is ongoing as I do more research and discover new patrons to share. It is often the case that important figures with disabilities aren't recorded or that their disability is "erased" from history. This list will provide entities that I find more concrete research and depictions of. That being said, as you work and connect with different deities and entities, you can comprehend and see them in any way that speaks true to your work together.

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Saint Lucy

Saint Lucy is the patron saint of the blind and those with eye illnesses. She was executed for her faith by the governor of Syracuse who attempted to burn her at the stake, but she wouldn't catch fire. Eventually, he had his soldiers take out her eyes and thrust a sword through her throat which was the killing blow. The reason for the gouging of her eyes varies across Christian history-- some say it was a way to torture her, some say it was due to the fact that she foretold the undoing of the governor persecuting her. Regardless, she is one of the most famous virgin martyrs in Christian belief. It's recorded that when her family went to visit her body in the mausoleum, her eyes had been miraculously restored. This is one of the reasons Saint Lucy is the patron of the blind and those with eye illnesses.

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Tyr, Norse God of War and Justice

The Norse god Tyr is known not only for his fierceness and ferocity, but also for having only one arm. His mythology states that he lost his arm when he helped the other gods bind and trap Fenrir. Tyr kept his arm in the jaws of Fenrir while the other gods bound the wolf, ultimately offering it as a sacrifice when Fenrir bit it off after realizing he'd been tricked. Tyr is known as a god of war and often associated with the Roman god Mars, but also has an intense sense of justice and is referred to the "guardian of oaths". His severed arm serves as a reminder and proof of his values and courage.

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Bes, Egyptian God of Protection

The Egyptian god Bes, or Beset, is primarily known as the protector of the home and the defender of goodness. He is a minor god but beloved by many. He is depicted and described as a dwarf with a crown of feathers and his image was placed on different types of objects and furniture. Having the image of the dwarf god nearby on doorframes, vases, beds, and more was meant to help keep evil spirits at bay. Bes was especially appreciated by those with children, and Bes is sometimes seen as a patron of motherhood and children in addition to a general protector.