The Story of Hymenaios
Hymenaios was the god of weddings and marriage feasts. Accounts of his family differ, but he is most often called a son of Apollo and one of the Muses, such as Calliope or Urania. In some tellings he was once a handsome young mortal who was later honored as a god.
Greek wedding processions led the bride from her family home to her new husband's house with torches, flutes and singing. The guests called out to him again and again with the cry Hymen, O Hymenaee, and the wedding song itself came to be called a hymenaios. People believed that if he came, the marriage would be blessed and happy.
His presence was not always a good sign. In Ovid's Metamorphoses, Hymenaios attended the wedding of Orpheus and Eurydice, but his torch only sputtered and smoked, and soon afterward Eurydice died from a snakebite. The Romans knew him as Hymen, and he remained a symbol of marriage in poetry and art for centuries.
Famous Myths About Hymenaios
A Bad Omen for Orpheus
In Ovid's Metamorphoses, Hymenaios came to the wedding of Orpheus and Eurydice, but he brought no blessing. His torch only sputtered and smoked, and soon after the wedding Eurydice died from a snakebite.
Hymenaios's Family Tree
Parents of Hymenaios
Partners of Hymenaios
Children of Hymenaios
Frequently Asked Questions About Hymenaios
Who is Hymenaios in Greek mythology?
Hymenaios is the god of weddings and marriage feasts, who was called upon in songs sung during the wedding procession.
Who are Hymenaios's parents?
Accounts differ, but he is most often called the son of Apollo and one of the Muses.
Why was Hymenaios invoked at weddings?
Greek wedding songs included the cry 'Hymen, Hymenaios,' because people believed his presence would bring a happy marriage.
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