The Greek Cult of Heracles

Abstract

Although he is clearly a mortal in the Iliad, both the myth of Heracles’ apotheosis and his earliest divine cults emerged in the seventh century. Geographically, functionally, and in terms of ritual variation, the scope of Heracles’ worship was vast, exceeded only by major Greek deities like Apollo and Artemis. A popular ritual was xenismos, in which hospitality was provided for the god through the spreading of a couch and the offering of food. The cults of Heracles on Thasos and at Sicyon were unusual in that the ritual procedures resembled those for a hero more than a god. War and athletics were key functional domains for Heracles, who was often hailed as Callinicus, “Splendidly Victorious.” His sanctuaries served as convenient mustering or camping places for armies. Like his efficacy in securing military victory, Heracles’ ability to avert all dangers and misfortunes was a staple of popular belief. Heracles was a favorite in both Thebes and Athens, but in one polis he was a native and in the other he was a guest-friend.