Poseidon was one of the twelve Olympian gods in Greek mythology, and was regarded as the god of the sea and earthquakes. He was the son of Cronus and Rhea, and was one of the three brothers who divided the world among themselves. Zeus became the god of the sky and thunder, Hades ruled the underworld, and Poseidon was given dominion over the seas.
The Story of Poseidon
In Greek mythology, Poseidon was born with a temper as powerful as the sea itself. When angered, he would unleash storms and stir the seas into turmoil. Legend holds that he could even create new islands and wield his trident to shake the earth, causing earthquakes with a single strike.
Poseidon was a powerful god who was greatly respected and feared by mortals and immortals alike. He was often depicted as a bearded man with a trident, and was sometimes accompanied by dolphins and horses.
Poseidon wasn’t just the ruler of the salty seas; he personified its very essence. He could conjure fearsome storms with a flick of his wrist, whipping the waves into a frenzy and sending shivers down the spines of even the most seasoned sailors. The earth itself trembled at his command, as Poseidon was also regarded as the god of earthquakes. A powerful image often depicted him wielding his mighty trident, a three-pronged spear that could shatter mountains and stir the very foundations of the earth.
Yet, Poseidon wasn’t solely a harbinger of destruction. He was also revered as a life-giver. The Greeks believed that with each strike of his trident upon the seabed, he created new springs, replenishing the earth’s freshwater reserves. Fishermen prayed to Poseidon for bountiful catches, and sailors sought his favor for safe passage across the perilous seas. In essence, Poseidon encapsulated the duality of the ocean – its capacity for both immense beauty and raw, untamed power.
Poseidon’s amorous exploits were as numerous and dramatic as the sea storms he commanded. One of his most famous tales involves the creation of the island of Atlantis. Here, Poseidon fell deeply in love with a mortal woman named Cleito. To protect her from harm, he used his divine power to create a magnificent island paradise for her. Their union produced ten sons, who would go on to become the mighty kings of Atlantis. However, as with many of Poseidon’s relationships, tragedy struck. Later myths depict Atlantis sinking beneath the waves, possibly as a consequence of Poseidon’s anger or a metaphor for the impermanence of even the most glorious civilizations.
Another well-known myth details Poseidon’s rivalry with Athena for the patronage of the city of Athens. Both gods presented the city with a gift – Poseidon offered a magnificent wellspring of saltwater, while Athena bestowed an olive tree, a symbol of peace and prosperity. The Athenians, recognizing the long-term benefits of the olive tree, chose Athena as their protector. While Poseidon was initially enraged by this decision, he eventually came to respect Athens and became a reluctant guardian of the city.
Another notable myth involves Poseidon’s role in the Trojan War. Angered by the Greeks for not properly honoring him, Poseidon supported the Trojans by causing storms to hinder the Greek fleet and sending a sea monster to attack their ships. Despite his occasional opposition to Zeus, he generally adhered to the decisions of the king of the gods, illustrating the complex dynamics of divine relationships in Greek mythology.
Worship of Poseidon was widespread in ancient Greece, especially in coastal regions. The Isthmus of Corinth was a major center for his cult, hosting the Isthmian Games, which were held in his honor. These games included athletic competitions and sacrifices, similar to the Olympic Games dedicated to Zeus.
One of the most famous temples dedicated to Poseidon is the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, located on a promontory overlooking the Aegean Sea. This temple served as a significant place of worship and a landmark for sailors. Another notable site is the sanctuary of Poseidon at Tenos, known for its powerful oracle and healing rituals.
Family of Poseidon
Poseidon was the son of Cronus and Rhea, and was the brother of Zeus and Hades. Together, the three brothers were known as the “Big Three” in Greek mythology, and were considered to be the most powerful gods. Poseidon was married to Amphitrite, a sea nymph, and together they had several children, including Triton, who was half-man and half-fish, and Polyphemus, the one-eyed giant who was best known for his encounter with Odysseus in the Odyssey.
Poseidon’s influence extended far beyond the realm of the sea. He was considered the father of many mythical creatures, including the monstrous Cyclops, the powerful horse Pegasus, and the monstrous sea serpent known as the Kraken. These fantastical beings served as a constant reminder of the untamed power and hidden depths that resided within Poseidon’s domain.
10 Myths and Facts About Poseidon
- The Horse Whisperer: Most know Poseidon as the god of the sea, but he also held dominion over horses. One myth tells the tale of how Poseidon, in a fit of rage, struck the ground with his trident, causing a magnificent winged horse, Pegasus, to spring forth. Pegasus later became the faithful companion of the hero Bellerophon.
- The Wrath of the Bull: Another myth details Poseidon’s pursuit of the beautiful nymph Theophane. To escape his advances, she transformed herself into a heifer. Undeterred, Poseidon cleverly disguised himself as a bull and mated with her. From this unusual union, the fearsome Minotaur, a creature with the head of a bull and the body of a man, was born. The Minotaur was eventually slain by the Athenian hero Theseus.
- The Ring and the Ram: In a unique tale of trickery, Poseidon desired the love of a maiden named Melanippe. To deceive her father, King Aeolus, Poseidon transformed himself into a magnificent ram and mingled with the king’s prized flock of sheep. Melanippe, fooled by the appearance, unknowingly accepted a ring from the disguised god as a gift. This ring later served as undeniable proof of Poseidon’s actions when Melanippe gave birth to twins, fathered by the god.
- The Walls of Troy: While Poseidon sided with the Greeks during the Trojan War, he held a grudge against King Laomedon of Troy. After Laomedon refused to pay Poseidon and Apollo for building the city’s mighty walls, Poseidon sent a monstrous sea serpent to ravage the Trojan coast. The serpent was only appeased by the sacrifice of Laomedon’s daughter, Hesione.
- The Curse of the House of Theseus: When Theseus, the slayer of the Minotaur, abandoned Poseidon’s son, Ariadne, on the island of Naxos, the earth-shaker unleashed his fury. He cursed Theseus’ lineage, ensuring generations of his descendants would suffer misfortune and tragedy.
- The Earthquake God: Poseidon wasn’t just the ruler of the seas; he was also believed to be the cause of earthquakes. The Greeks believed that Poseidon resided in a magnificent palace beneath the ocean floor, and whenever he rode his chariot or struck the seabed with his trident, the earth would tremble.
- The Hippodrome Patron: Poseidon’s connection to horses extended beyond their creation. He was considered the patron god of horse racing and chariot competitions. Many ancient Greek hippodromes, including the one in Olympia, were built near bodies of water, further solidifying the link between Poseidon and these noble steeds.
- The Grain Grantor: While Poseidon’s domain was primarily the sea, he also held some influence over agriculture. He was credited with gifting humanity the first horse, which not only revolutionized transportation but also aided in plowing fields, thus contributing to bountiful harvests.
- The Protector of Sailors: Despite his tempestuous nature, Poseidon was also revered as the protector of sailors. Seafarers often prayed to Poseidon for safe passage and calm seas. They would make offerings to him before embarking on voyages, hoping to appease the god and ensure a successful journey.
- The Keeper of Wealth: The depths of the ocean were believed to hold vast treasures, guarded by Poseidon. From sunken ships laden with gold to pearls and precious stones, the sea held a wealth that Poseidon controlled. This association with riches further solidified his status as a powerful and influential deity.
The Symbols of Poseidon
Trident
One of the most iconic symbols of Poseidon is his trident. A three-pronged spear crafted by the Cyclopes, the trident represents Poseidon’s dominion over the sea and his ability to control its waters. In mythology, Poseidon could use his trident to create storms, stir up tempests, or calm the seas according to his will. This symbolizes both his power to protect sailors and wreak havoc upon those who crossed him. The trident is often depicted as a potent weapon that reinforces Poseidon’s authority among the Olympian gods and underscores his role as the “Earth-Shaker” due to its association with causing earthquakes.
Horses
Poseidon is closely associated with horses, and his connection to these animals is deeply rooted in mythology. According to myth, Poseidon created the first horse when he struck the ground with his trident. This act not only symbolizes his creative power but also highlights the importance of horses in ancient Greek culture as symbols of strength, speed, and nobility. Poseidon is often depicted riding a chariot pulled by magnificent horses or accompanied by hippocampi, mythical creatures that have the upper body of a horse and the lower body of a fish. These creatures symbolize the blending of Poseidon’s dominion over both land and sea, further emphasizing his influence and authority.
Dolphins
Dolphins are sacred to Poseidon and are considered one of his symbols in Greek mythology. These intelligent and playful creatures are often depicted as companions to the sea god and are believed to be messengers or helpers of sailors in distress. Ancient Greeks viewed dolphins as benevolent beings associated with safe passage and protection at sea. Stories often depict dolphins guiding lost sailors back to shore or assisting shipwreck survivors, solidifying their role as symbols of Poseidon’s benevolence and guardianship over those who navigate the unpredictable waters.
Bulls
Bulls are another symbolic animal associated with Poseidon, particularly in religious rites and sacrifices dedicated to him. Bulls were considered sacred to Poseidon in some regions of ancient Greece, and offerings of bulls were made at his temples to appease and honor him. Bulls symbolized strength, fertility, and virility, qualities that were attributed to Poseidon as a powerful and potent deity. In mythology, Poseidon’s association with bulls underscores his role as a patron of agriculture and fertility, as well as his influence over the land and its resources beyond the sea.
Gastraphetes (Fish)
The gastraphetes, or fish, is a lesser-known symbol associated with Poseidon in Greek mythology. Fish were considered sacred to Poseidon due to their association with the sea and its bounty. In some depictions, Poseidon is accompanied by fish or depicted holding them in his hands. Fish symbolize abundance, sustenance, and the fertility of the waters, reflecting Poseidon’s role as a provider and protector of marine life. They also represent the interconnectedness of all creatures within Poseidon’s domain, highlighting the balance and harmony he maintains as the god of the sea.
The Colors of the Sea
The very colors of the sea – deep blue, turquoise, and emerald green – were associated with Poseidon. These hues represented the vastness and mystery of his domain, a realm both beautiful and perilous. The dark, churning depths of the ocean evoked a sense of awe and respect for the power it held. The sparkling turquoise waters, on the other hand, symbolized hope, new beginnings, and the promise of safe passage for sailors who earned Poseidon’s favor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Poseidon look like?
Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea, is typically depicted as a mature and powerful figure in ancient Greek art and mythology. He is often portrayed as a bearded man with a robust and muscular physique, reflecting his authority and strength as a deity. Poseidon’s appearance includes distinctive features such as flowing hair, often depicted as dark or sea-colored, which enhances his connection to the waters he rules over. His eyes are intense and commanding, mirroring his temperament as both a benevolent protector and a fearsome deity capable of unleashing storms and earthquakes.
In artistic representations, Poseidon is frequently shown wearing a crown or wreath made of seaweed or marine motifs, symbolizing his kingship over the sea and its creatures. He is often depicted holding his trident, a three-pronged spear that serves as both a weapon and a symbol of his dominion over the waters. This trident is a central element of his iconography, emphasizing his control over the sea’s unpredictable forces and his ability to create or calm storms at will.
Poseidon’s attire in classical Greek art often includes a flowing robe or chiton, sometimes draped with a himation (a type of cloak), signifying his regal status among the Olympian gods. His physical appearance and attire vary slightly in different artistic interpretations, but the core elements of his powerful presence and connection to the sea remain consistent across various depictions in ancient Greek sculpture, pottery, and other forms of artistic expression.
Why did Poseidon hate Odysseus?
Poseidon’s animosity towards Odysseus, the hero of Homer’s epic poem “The Odyssey,” stems from an incident early in Odysseus’s journey home from the Trojan War. According to Greek mythology, Odysseus blinded Polyphemus, the Cyclops and son of Poseidon, as part of his escape from Polyphemus’s cave. Polyphemus was enraged by this act of cunning and cruelty, and he called upon his father Poseidon to curse Odysseus.
Poseidon, as the god of the sea and earthquakes, took offense on behalf of his son and subsequently became a primary obstacle in Odysseus’s journey back to Ithaca. Throughout “The Odyssey,” Poseidon repeatedly intervenes to thwart Odysseus’s efforts to return home, sending storms, shipwrecks, and other trials to hinder his progress. Poseidon’s anger and determination to punish Odysseus reflect both his role as a vengeful deity and his loyalty to his Cyclopean offspring.
What did Poseidon do to Medusa?
Poseidon’s involvement with Medusa in Greek mythology is a tragic tale that resulted in her transformation into a monstrous creature. According to one version of the myth, Medusa was originally a beautiful mortal woman known for her striking appearance, particularly her long hair. She caught the attention of Poseidon, who, overcome by lust, pursued her.
In some versions of the myth, Poseidon and Medusa engaged in a sexual encounter within the temple of Athena, the virgin goddess. This act desecrated Athena’s sacred space, and in her wrath, Athena punished Medusa by transforming her beautiful hair into serpents and cursing her with a gaze that turned anyone who looked at her into stone.
Poseidon’s role in Medusa’s fate is significant because his actions precipitated the events that led to her transformation. While Poseidon himself did not directly curse Medusa, his involvement in the sacrilegious act within Athena’s temple ultimately led to her punishment by Athena.
Why is Poseidon the god of horses?
Poseidon’s association with horses in Greek mythology stems from his mythical creation of the first horse. According to legend, Poseidon struck the earth with his trident, causing a magnificent horse to emerge from the ground. This act symbolizes Poseidon’s creative power and his role as a provider of valuable resources to humanity.
Horses held immense significance in ancient Greek society for their role in agriculture, transportation, and warfare. As the creator of the horse, Poseidon became inherently linked to these noble creatures, embodying their strength, speed, and beauty. Moreover, Poseidon’s control over horses extends beyond their physical attributes to their symbolic significance in various aspects of Greek culture.
Additionally, Poseidon’s connection to horses is evident in his iconography and mythology. He is often depicted riding a chariot pulled by majestic horses, showcasing his mastery over these animals and their importance in his divine persona. The horse became a symbol of Poseidon’s dominion over land as well as sea, reflecting his dual role as a deity associated with both earth and water.
Furthermore, Poseidon’s patronage of horses is also linked to his role as a protector of horsemen and cavalry. Ancient Greeks believed that invoking Poseidon’s favor could ensure success in equestrian endeavors and ensure the well-being of horses and riders alike. Thus, Poseidon’s title as the god of horses underscores his multifaceted nature as a deity who embodies power, creativity, and guardianship over both natural and cultural domains.
