The Messed Up Mythology™ of Asclepius, God of Medicine | Mythology Explained - Jon Solo

Jon Solo・2 minutes read

Asclepius, an underrated Greek god of healing, was worshipped in temples resembling ancient hospitals, known for miraculous healings and severe consequences for disrespect. Despite his exceptional abilities, controversies regarding his powers and influence on immortality persist, sparking debate among scholars and viewers.

Insights

  • Asclepius, an overlooked Greek god of healing, operated temples that functioned as ancient hospitals, where treatments were administered by priests, and the god was believed to provide remedies through dreams, showcasing a unique approach to healthcare in ancient times.
  • Asclepius' extraordinary healing abilities, including bringing the dead back to life, led to his deification after being struck down by Zeus, highlighting his controversial yet revered status as a patron of healing arts and immortalizing him in the stars as the constellation Ophiuchus, blurring the lines between myth and historical reality.

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Recent questions

  • Who was Asclepius in Greek mythology?

    Asclepius was an underrated Greek god of healing and medicine, known for his exceptional skills in treating various ailments and injuries. He was born to Apollo and Coronis, raised by the centaur Chiron, and eventually became renowned for his healing abilities, surpassing even his mentor's medical knowledge.

  • Where was Asclepius primarily worshipped?

    Asclepius was primarily worshipped in Epidaurus, where his temple was surrounded by an orchard known as a sanctuary of healing. People believed that within this sacred space, no one was allowed to die or give birth, seeking treatments from priests and making sacrifices to the god in hopes of receiving remedies in dreams.

  • What consequences could disrespect towards Asclepius lead to?

    Disrespect towards Asclepius was not tolerated, as he had the power to cure diseases and send plagues if insulted. Those who offended the god faced severe consequences, highlighting the belief in his ability to bring healing and inflict punishment on those who did not show proper reverence.

  • How did Asclepius showcase his extraordinary healing powers?

    Asclepius treated various ailments and injuries using a combination of incantations, medicines, salves, and surgeries. He was known for providing relief even in cases where death seemed inevitable, showcasing his exceptional skills in medicine and healing that made him a revered figure in ancient Greek society.

  • What led to Asclepius becoming the patron of healing arts?

    Asclepius discovered the ability to bring people back from the dead, angering the gods by interfering with the natural order. Zeus struck him down with a thunderbolt, but Apollo sought revenge by killing the cyclopes who crafted the thunderbolt. Eventually, Zeus brought Asclepius back to life as a god, making him the patron of healing arts and immortalizing him in Greek mythology.

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Summary

00:00

Asclepius: Greek God of Healing and Medicine

  • Asclepius is an underrated Greek god of healing and medicine, who is not receiving the appreciation he deserves, especially during the COVID pandemic.
  • Temples dedicated to Asclepius were akin to ancient hospitals, where people made sacrifices, received treatments from priests, and believed the god would reveal remedies in dreams.
  • Asclepius was worshipped primarily in Epidaurus, where his temple was surrounded by an orchard where no one was allowed to die or give birth.
  • Disrespect towards Asclepius was not tolerated, as he had the power to cure diseases and could send plagues if insulted, leading to severe consequences.
  • Asclepius was born to Apollo and Coronis, with two versions of his birth story existing, one involving abandonment on a mountain and the other a tragic love triangle leading to his birth.
  • Asclepius was raised by the centaur Chiron, a master healer, and warrior, and he surpassed Chiron's medical knowledge, becoming renowned for his healing abilities.
  • Asclepius treated various ailments and injuries, offering remedies through incantations, medicines, salves, and surgeries, providing relief even in cases where death was inevitable.
  • Asclepius participated in heroic quests, such as sailing with Jason for the golden fleece and hunting the Caledonian boar, where he likely focused on healing the injured rather than engaging in combat.
  • Asclepius eventually discovered the ability to bring people back from the dead, showcasing his extraordinary healing powers.
  • Asclepius' life and legend highlight his exceptional skills in medicine and healing, making him a revered figure in ancient Greek society.

10:54

Asclepius: Healing, Immortality, and Mythological Legacy

  • A woman with an intestinal worm sought help from Asclepius after doctors failed to cure her. His attendants, in a drastic move, cut off her head to remove the worm, and Asclepius later healed her, reattaching her head.
  • In a comedy by Aristophanes, two Athenians take the blind god of wealth, Plutus, to Asclepius for healing. Asclepius, with the help of his daughters, used serpents to restore Plutus' vision, causing a joyful reaction.
  • Asclepius discovered the secret to immortality, angering the gods by bringing people back to life. Zeus struck him down with a thunderbolt, but Apollo sought revenge by killing the cyclopes who crafted the thunderbolt. Zeus eventually brought Asclepius back to life as a god, making him the patron of healing arts.
  • Asclepius' image was cast in the stars as the constellation Ophiuchus, the 13th sign of western astrology.
  • Theories suggest Asclepius may have been a real man whose deeds were mythologized. His historical evidence is intriguing, but not fully understood.
  • Viewers are encouraged to share their thoughts on Asclepius, his actions, and whether he overstepped his authority by resurrecting the dead. Support for the channel and upcoming content is available through Patreon and social media platforms.
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