Who was the Greek god of the sun?

Apollo.

The Greek god of the sun was Apollo, one of the most important and complex deities in ancient Greek mythology. Often depicted as the ideal of youthful, athletic vigor, Apollo was not only associated with the sun but also held dominion over a multitude of other aspects, including music, poetry, art, oracles, archery, and medicine. His role as the god of light connected him to the sun, making him a pivotal figure in the pantheon who brought warmth and life to the Earth.

Apollo was born on the island of Delos to Zeus, the king of the gods, and Leto, a Titan goddess. His birth, however, was enveloped in difficulty due to the wrath of Hera, Zeus’s wife, who was angered by her husband’s infidelity. Hera banned Leto from giving birth on “terra firma,” or the mainland, as well as any island at sea. Leto eventually found refuge on the floating island of Delos, which was obscure and not considered either mainland or a real island. Here, she gave birth to Apollo and his twin sister, Artemis, the goddess of the hunt.

Apollo was venerated across the Greek world, but his most significant sanctuary was at Delphi, where he was revered as a god of prophecy. The Oracle of Delphi, a priestess known as the Pythia, served as a medium through whom Apollo communicated. This oracle was consulted by all who sought answers about the future, and Delphi itself was considered the center of the world in ancient Greek culture.

One of the key myths that highlight Apollo’s connection to the sun involves his daily journey across the sky. According to mythology, every morning, Apollo would ride his chariot of fire pulled by golden horses from the eastern horizon to the west, dragging the sun with him across the sky. This depiction not only emphasized his role as a solar deity but also connected him to the rhythm of the day and the life-giving energy of the sun.

Additionally, Apollo’s association with the sun extended into his role as a god of healing. Just as the sun revitalizes the earth with its life-giving rays, Apollo was believed to possess the ability to cure diseases and promote health, reflecting the healing qualities of sunlight.

In summary, Apollo, the Greek god of the sun, was a multi-faceted deity whose influence extended over various aspects of life and culture in ancient Greece. His imagery and myths encapsulate the reverence the Greeks had for the sun and its critical role in the natural world, making him a central figure in Greek mythology and religion.