Hildergard of Bingen: From Silence to Sovereignty

Today we journey along the banks of the Rhine River, a mythic waterway that has carried stories, merchants, crusaders… and mystery for centuries. From this sacred soil flowed Hildegard of Bingen—born in September 1098, fierce, fertile, and destined to move with purpose.
Hildegard was the tenth child of noble parents and, as such, was given to the Church as a spiritual offering. At just eight years old, she was enclosed within the walls of Disibodenberg monastery—sealed in, cloistered from the world, surrounded by silence and stone.
For nearly 30 years, she listened, watched, and waited. In that hidden life, Hildegard learned the healing powers of plants and gems, nurtured her visions, and prepared herself for a world that was not yet ready to hear her.
Remarkably, she did not begin to write her visionary texts, compose music, or speak publicly until her 40s—an age when most people of the 12th century had already passed. Emerging from decades of quiet preparation, Hildegard became a healer, composer, theologian, and spiritual leader. She founded her own abbey, preached publicly with the Pope’s blessing, and became a voice of the Divine in a world that expected women to stay silent.
Hildegard’s story is not just history—it is a metaphor for midlife awakening. It reminds us that silence does not equal absence, that hidden years can be potent incubation, and that emerging into one’s voice is a transformative act of sovereignty.
In this episode, we explore Hildegard as both a historical figure and an archetype for modern women navigating the passage from silence to sovereignty. We’ll discuss her teachings, her use of herbs and music, and the ways her wisdom continues to guide creative and healing journeys today.
Our guest is Georgina Langdale, artist, healer, and herbalist, who walks between worlds much like Hildegard herself.
Georgina’s Website: https://archeus.nz
FB + Instagram: @Archeusnaturalliving
Podcast: The Soul Garden
Art: @Georginalangdaleart