The Other Hades in Greek Mythology and His Family Ties

French philosopher and mythologist Dimitris Sotiropoulos mentioned in his answer to the question Who is the other Hades and which are their family ties? draws our attention to complex familial and cosmic ties in Greek mythology. This article delves into the role of Hades, the powerful god of the Underworld, as well as the identity and family context of this other Hades as presented in ancient texts.

Introduction to Hades in Greek Mythology

In Greek mythology, Hades is one of the twelve Olympian deities, also known as the god of the Underworld. He is the son of the Titans Cronus and Rhea, older brothers to Zeus and Poseidon, and older sisters to Demeter, Hera, and Hestia. The three siblings drew lots to divide the world among themselves, with Zeus gaining the sky, Poseidon the seas, and Hades the realm of the dead.

The Brother of Zeus: Hades in Myth and Scripture

The relations between Hades and Zeus are central in Greek mythology. While Zeus was the king and ruler of the gods on Mount Olympus, Hades presided over the Underworld, a domain that includes Tartarus, the Elysium plains, and the fields of punishment. This duality of power makes Hades both a respected and feared deity.

Nostra Senora's Query and the Orphic Hymn

Nostra Senora's question, Who is the other Hades and which are their family ties? leads us down a rabbit hole of theological and mythological speculation. The answer provided by Dimitris Sotiropoulos is rooted in the Orphic Hymns, a series of poems that were attributed to Euripides and are used in Orphic religious practices.

Orphic Hymns and the Duality of Hades

In the Orphic Hymn 912, the text presents Hades as a deity who can be addressed as either Zeus or Hades. Clement of Alexandria, in his work The Stromata, references this hymn, suggesting that Hades and Zeus are not merely separate but are aspects of a singular substance. This blending of identities is reflected in the Orphic tradition, a religious sect that emphasized the spiritual purification of the soul.

Theological Interpretations

The interpretation of Orphic Hymn 912 has been a subject of much debate among scholars. Some scholars, like Nostra Senora, have suggested it reflects Christian theology, with Hades representing the Son and Zeus the Father, thus conflating into a single divine substance. However, other historians argue that this duality might represent different deities such as Zagreus, Dionysus, or even Hermes. This interpretive flexibility highlights the complexity and depth of Greek myths and the broader religious landscape of ancient Greece.

Conclusion

Through the examination of the Orphic Hymns and their theological implications, we gain a deeper understanding of the identities and roles of Hades and Zeus in Greek mythology. The flexible interpretation of these texts showcases the adaptability and enduring influence of these ancient beliefs.