Wilgefortis

The story

According to legend, Wilgefortis is a young Christian noblewoman who has taken a vow of chastity. Her father, a pagan King, arranges for her to marry another pagan. Reluctant to marry because of her vow, she prays to God to make her repulsive to her betrothed.

Here’s where it gets interesting. God grants her wish and in His infinite wisdom gives her a beard. Her fiancé faints, the engagement is broken, and her father crucifies her in a rage.

God all powerful could have given her anything but no, he gives her a beard.

Let that sink in.

What does that signify to you? A bearded woman: unviable, infertile, transitioning to menopause.

For seeking to avoid an unwelcome suitor the woman is made less-than feminine.

Where have we encountered this before?

Wilgefortis is also known as Uncumber in England; Ontkommer (one who avoids something): Holland ; Kümmernis (grief or anxiety): Germany; Débarras (riddance): France; Liberata (liberated): Italy; and Librada: Spain. She is venerated by people seeking relief from tribulations, particularly by women wishing to be freed from abusive husbands.