Place of Origin: Greece
Origin Date: Ancient times
Domain: Sea, earthquakes, horses
Symbols: Trident, horse, dolphin, bull
Attributes: Power, tempestuousness, dominion over the sea and earthquakes
Epithets: Earth-shaker, Horse-tamer, Sea-God
Equivalents: Neptune (Roman mythology)
Religion: Greek mythology
Sacred Texts: References in "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" by Homer, "Theogony" by Hesiod
Iconography: Poseidon is often depicted as a powerful, bearded man holding a trident, sometimes accompanied by sea creatures such as dolphins or horses. He is also shown causing earthquakes or riding a chariot pulled by horses or sea creatures.
Relations: Cronus (father), Rhea (mother), Zeus (brother), Hades (brother), Amphitrite (wife)Hera (sister), Demeter (sister), Hestia (sister), Triton (son)
Description
Poseidon is the ancient Greek god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses. He is known for his powerful and tempestuous nature, often depicted wielding a trident. Poseidon is the son of the Titans Cronus and Rhea, and the brother of Zeus, Hades, Hera, Demeter, and Hestia. His significance lies in his dominion over the oceans and his ability to cause earthquakes, making him a formidable and revered deity.
Narratives
The Birth of Poseidon
Poseidon is born to the Titans Cronus and Rhea. He is one of the twelve Olympian gods. To prevent being overthrown by his children, Cronus swallows Poseidon at birth, but he is later freed by his brother Zeus.
The Titanomachy
Poseidon plays a significant role in the Titanomachy, the great war between the Titans, led by Cronus, and the Olympian gods, led by Zeus. Poseidon, along with his siblings, fights against the Titans and helps secure victory for the Olympians. After the war, Poseidon is granted dominion over the sea.
Poseidon and the Creation of Horses
Poseidon is credited with creating the first horse. According to one myth, he created horses to impress Demeter, whom he desired. In another version, Poseidon created horses as a gift to humanity. He is often depicted with horses and is considered their patron god.
Poseidon and the Contest for Athens
In ancient Greece, the city of Athens was in need of a patron deity. The two main contenders for this honour were Poseidon, the god of the sea, and Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare. Both gods wanted to be the protector and benefactor of the city, and so they decided to compete for the patronage by offering gifts to the citizens of Athens.
Poseidon was the first to present his gift. He struck the ground with his mighty trident, and from the spot where it touched, a saltwater spring emerged. The water from the spring symbolized Poseidon's power over the sea and his ability to provide naval strength and trade opportunities for the city. However, the water was salty and not suitable for drinking or irrigation.
Next, it was Athena's turn to offer her gift. She planted an olive tree on the Acropolis, the highest point in the city. The olive tree symbolized peace, prosperity, and sustenance. It provided the Athenians with olives, which could be used for food, oil, and wood. The olive tree was a versatile and valuable resource that promised long-term benefits for the city's inhabitants.
The citizens of Athens were impressed by both gifts, but they ultimately chose Athena's olive tree as the more valuable and practical offering. As a result, Athena became the patron deity of the city, and the city was named Athens in her honor.
Poseidon, angered by the decision, unleashed his wrath upon the city. In retaliation he caused the sea to rise and flood the land, creating chaos and destruction. However, the Athenians remained steadfast in their choice, and Athena's wisdom and protection continued to guide and prosper the city.
This story highlights the themes of competition, divine intervention, and the importance of wisdom and practical gifts. It also underscores the complex relationships between the gods and their influence on the lives of mortals.
Poseidon and Amphitrite
Poseidon falls in love with Amphitrite, a sea nymph, and asks her to marry him. Initially, Amphitrite refuses and hides in the depths of the ocean. Poseidon sends a dolphin to find her and persuade her to return. The dolphin succeeds, and Amphitrite agrees to marry Poseidon. As a reward, Poseidon places the dolphin among the stars as the constellation Delphinus.
Poseidon and the Walls of Troy
Poseidon and Apollo were tasked with building the walls of Troy for King Laomedon. After completing the task, Laomedon refuses to pay them. In retaliation, Poseidon sends a sea monster to terrorize Troy. The monster is eventually defeated by Heracles.
Poseidon and the Minotaur
Poseidon plays a role in the myth of the Minotaur. King Minos of Crete prays to Poseidon for a sign of his right to rule. Poseidon sends a magnificent white bull from the sea, which Minos is supposed to sacrifice. However, Minos keeps the bull, angering Poseidon. In revenge, Poseidon causes Minos's wife, Pasiphae, to fall in love with the bull, resulting in the birth of the Minotaur.
Poseidon and Odysseus: Role in the Odyssey
In Homer's "Odyssey," Poseidon is a key antagonist, seeking revenge on Odysseus for blinding his son, the Cyclops Polyphemus. Throughout Odysseus's journey home from the Trojan War, Poseidon creates numerous obstacles and delays, making his voyage perilous and prolonged. Despite Poseidon's wrath, Odysseus eventually returns home to Ithaca.
Poseidon and Theseus
Poseidon is the father of the hero Theseus. Theseus embarks on numerous adventures, including slaying the Minotaur and navigating the labyrinth. Poseidon provides Theseus with guidance and support throughout his quests.
Poseidon and the Gigantomachy
Poseidon participates in the Gigantomachy, the battle between the Olympian gods and the Giants. He fights valiantly alongside his fellow gods and helps secure victory for the Olympians. Poseidon's role in the Gigantomachy underscores his strength and importance among the gods.
Creation of the Horse
Poseidon, the god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses, is credited with creating the first horse. There are different versions of this myth, each highlighting Poseidon's creativity and his connection to horses.
1. Poseidon's Gift to Humanity
In one version of the myth, Poseidon creates the horse as a gift to humanity. He shapes the horse from the waves of the sea, imbuing it with strength, speed, and grace. The horse becomes a symbol of power and freedom, and it is highly valued by humans for its utility in transportation, agriculture, and warfare. Poseidon's creation of the horse demonstrates his benevolence and his desire to contribute to the well-being of mortals.
2. Poseidon's Rivalry with Athena
Another version of the myth involves Poseidon's rivalry with Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare. Both gods compete for the patronage of the city of Athens. To impress the citizens, Poseidon strikes the ground with his trident, creating a magnificent horse. The horse symbolizes Poseidon's power and his ability to provide the city with a valuable and versatile animal. However, Athena offers the olive tree, which is deemed more beneficial to the city's prosperity. The citizens choose Athena's gift, and she becomes the patron deity of Athens. Despite losing the contest, Poseidon's creation of the horse remains a testament to his ingenuity and his connection to the animal.
3. Poseidon and Demeter
In another version of the myth, Poseidon creates the horse to impress Demeter, the goddess of agriculture. Poseidon desires Demeter and pursues her, but she transforms herself into a mare to escape him. In response, Poseidon transforms into a stallion and mates with her, resulting in the birth of the horse Arion, a divine and immortal horse. This version of the myth highlights Poseidon's persistence and his ability to shape-shift, as well as the divine origins of the horse.
These different versions of the myth emphasize Poseidon's creativity, his connection to horses, and his interactions with other gods and mortals. The creation of the horse is one of Poseidon's most significant contributions to Greek mythology, symbolizing strength, freedom, and the bond between gods and humans.
Worship Beliefs and Practices of Poseidon
Poseidon is a significant figure in Greek mythology, revered as the god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses. He is one of the twelve Olympian gods and is associated with the power and unpredictability of the ocean.
Core Beliefs
God of the Sea: Poseidon is believed to be the god of the sea, embodying the vast and powerful nature of the ocean. His presence brings both calm and stormy seas, reflecting the unpredictable nature of the sea.
God of Earthquakes: Poseidon is also associated with earthquakes, known as the "Earth-Shaker." His trident, a three-pronged spear, is believed to cause earthquakes when struck against the ground.
God of Horses: Poseidon is the god of horses and is often credited with creating the first horse. He is associated with horse racing and equestrian events, emphasizing his connection to these noble animals.
Attributes and Significance
Depictions: Poseidon is often depicted as a powerful and majestic figure, sometimes shown holding a trident and riding a chariot pulled by sea creatures or horses. He is also depicted with symbols of the sea, such as dolphins and fish.
Symbols: Common symbols associated with Poseidon include the trident, the horse, and the dolphin. These symbols are used in rituals and ceremonies to invoke his presence and blessings.
Cultural Hero: The stories and depictions of Poseidon are passed down through generations, maintaining their significance in Greek culture and mythology. He is a symbol of the power and unpredictability of the sea and the natural world.
Practices of Worship
Rituals and Ceremonies: Devotees perform various rituals and ceremonies to honor Poseidon. These include offerings of food, drink, and other goods to seek his favor and protection. Rituals often take place near bodies of water, such as the sea or rivers, to align with his connection to the ocean.
Sacred Sites: Temples and shrines dedicated to Poseidon can be found throughout Greek regions. One of the most famous sites is the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, overlooking the Aegean Sea. These sites are often adorned with statues and images of Poseidon, where devotees can offer prayers and make offerings.
Offerings: Offerings to Poseidon typically include food, drink, and items related to the sea and horses, such as fish and horse figurines. These offerings symbolize gratitude and the desire for protection and blessings.
Festivals and Traditions
Isthmian Games: The Isthmian Games were held in honor of Poseidon and took place every two years near Corinth. The games included various athletic competitions, such as horse racing and chariot racing, as well as rituals to seek Poseidon's blessings for the participants and the community.
Cultural Celebrations: Poseidon's story may be included in cultural celebrations and festivals that honor Greek heritage and traditions. These gatherings often include music, dance, and storytelling.
Prayers: Devotees pray to Poseidon for protection, strength, and the successful practice of their spiritual beliefs. Traditional prayers often invoke his role as the god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses.
Poseidon's role as the god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses embodies the core values and beliefs of Greek mythology, emphasizing the importance of understanding the power and unpredictability of the natural world.