Janus is an ancient Roman god uniquely associated with beginnings, transitions, time, and duality. Unlike many Roman deities, Janus has no direct Greek counterpart, underscoring his distinctly Roman roots. He is most famously depicted with two faces - one gazing into the past, the other into the future - symbolising his dominion over all thresholds and passages, both literal and metaphorical. As the god of doorways, gates, and crossroads, Janus was invoked at the start of any new venture, whether a journey, a war, or even a new year - the month of January is named after him. His temples often had two doors and were kept open during times of war and closed in peace, reinforcing his role as a guardian of change and liminal spaces. Janus embodies the human experience of looking backward while moving forward, making him a powerful symbol of reflection and renewal.