Poseidon— Greek God"God of the Sea"

Lord of the Seas

Poseidon is one of the twelve Olympians and one of the three sons of Kronos and Rhea who divided the universe after defeating the Titans. When the brothers cast lots, Poseidon won dominion over all the seas, oceans, and waterways. He dwells in a magnificent golden palace on the ocean floor near Aegae, from which he commands the waves and sea creatures.

The Earth-Shaker

Poseidon's power extends beyond the waters. Known as the "Earth-Shaker," he can cause earthquakes by striking the ground with his trident—a three-pronged spear forged by the Cyclopes during the Titanomachy. Ancient Greeks believed earthquakes were signs of Poseidon's anger, and coastal and island communities held him in particular reverence and fear.

The Horse-Lord

Strangely for a sea god, Poseidon is also the god of horses. Myth says he created the first horse, either as a gift to humanity or from the crest of a wave. Some legends claim he transformed into a stallion to pursue Demeter, and from their union came the divine horse Arion. The horse was sacred to Poseidon, and chariot races were held in his honor.

Contest for Athens

One of Poseidon's most famous myths is his competition with Athena for patronage of Athens. To win the city's favor, Poseidon struck the Acropolis with his trident, creating a saltwater spring (or in some versions, the first horse). Athena, however, planted an olive tree. The citizens chose Athena's gift, and the city was named after her. Poseidon's rage at this slight was legendary.

Wrath and Vengeance

Poseidon was known for his violent temper and held grudges for generations. When Odysseus blinded his son, the Cyclops Polyphemus, Poseidon cursed the hero to wander the seas for ten years before reaching home. He sent sea monsters against kingdoms that offended him and could summon devastating storms at will.

Monstrous Offspring

Poseidon fathered numerous children, many of them monstrous. His offspring include the Cyclops Polyphemus, the winged horse Pegasus (born from Medusa's blood), the hunter Orion, and the hero Theseus. His union with Medusa in Athena's temple led to Athena cursing Medusa into the snake-haired Gorgon.