Hyacinth
Hyacinth is divine patron of gay lovers. Hyacinth is described as the youngest and most beautiful son of a Spartan king. Both Apollo and Zephyr fell in love with him, but Hyacinth chose Apollo. (The Muse Erato lusted and competed for Hyacinth, too.) Zephyr came upon the two playing a game of discus and in a blindingly jealous rage killed Hyacinth. Grief-stricken Apollo caused a plant to spring from Hyacinth’s spilled blood. This plant may or may not be the modern flower known as hyacinth, although it was called “hyacinthos.” Hyacinth was arrested at an eternally youthful stage. He is a spirit of joy, vigor, Earth’s agricultural abundance, and musical skill.
The hyacinthos plant was used to delay male puberty, prolonging adolescence. It was a favourite of Greek slave traders, as adolescent hoys were particularly valuable and brought a high price.
In life, Apollo tutored Hyacinth in sports, divination, and music. In death, Hyacinth transmitted this wisdom to people. He is the conduit to Apollo’s knowledge. A large statue of Apollo stood before Hyacinth’s tomb. The two deities are venerated together. At the annual Hyacinthus festival honouring Hyacinth as a deity, he naturally received the first offerings. The next offerings were made to Apollo. His festival was not exclusively male: girls and women also played significant roles. Hyacinth is also venerated alongside his sister, Polyboea.
FAVOURED PEOPLE:
Gay lovers seeking happy romance, musicians
ATTRIBUTE:
A musical instrument: lyre or cithara
OFFERINGS:
Fruits, vegetables, flowers, cooked pork, and fava beans
SEE ALSO:
- Apollo
- Harpies
- Muse
- Polyboea
- Zephyr
SOURCE:
Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses– Written by Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.
