This is one of the most famously talked about mythological stories regarding Minerva (Athena in Greek Mythology) and Poseidon. As promised in one of our last posts that you all loved, we are telling a cultural tale that has been passed down through families for generations. Because these stories have been verbally translated and passed along, as well as, changed and altered slightly based on the cultures telling them, it is always important to remember there may be slight discrepancies and minor changes from version to version. Always trust your intuition when dealing with historical documents of any kind, as history is often written and recorded by the victor, and less important things have a way of losing themselves in time. Much can be said for cultures and belief systems who have since died out, for one reason or another. This is the tale of Minerva and Poseidon and the Contest for Athens.
This famous contest between Minerva and Poseidon began because both Gods desired to become the patron deity of a newly established city in Greece, Athens. The city needed a divine protector, and the citizens of that city wanted to ensure they made the best choice possible to ensure the longevity of their homes and families. Neither Minerva nor Poseidon wished to fight each other, so they agreed on allowing the citizens to choose their favored God, by way of a friendly gifting contest. Whomever could conjure the best gift to the people of Greece, could become the new city's patron deity.
The citizens of Athens, led by King Cecrops, gathered to witness this battle between Gods. First to offer his gift was Poseidon, God of the Sea. He struck the ground with his mighty trident causing a spring of saltwater to burst forth. (In some version Poseidon struck the Acropolis, a rocky hill in Athens, with his trident to create the saltwater spring. This dramatic act symbolized his power over the sea and the potential for naval dominance. The Acropolis was a significant location in Athens and striking it underscored Poseidon's might and the impressive nature of his gift. In some more ancient versions Poseidon’s gift to the city of Athens was not just a saltwater spring, but also a magnificent horse. This variation of the story is less common, but still present in ancient sources. The horse symbolized strength, power, and the potential for military prowess. It showcased Poseidon's dominion over horses and his ability to provide a strong, war-capable animal. The horse version highlights the duality of Poseidon’s gift, one tied to the sea (the saltwater spring), and one tied to land warfare (the horse).
While powerful and a grand show of strength, the citizens of Greece noticed his gift was less practical and failed to serve the basic daily needs of the people, as saltwater is undrinkable and offered little to the citizens.
It was now Minerva's turn, she thought long and hard about a gift that could best Poseidon's might, she finally tapped into her feminine strength and came up with the best practical gift she could for the citizens. Minerva's method of presenting her gift was graceful and symbolic of her wisdom and nurturing nature. While Poseidon struck the ground with his trident, Minerva approached her gift with a gentler touch. She planted an olive tree into the fertile soil of the Acropolis. This act was deliberate and thoughtful, embodying her connection to growth, wisdom, and prosperity. The tree immediately sprung forth and began to bear olives.
The olive tree provided essential resources such as olives for food, olive oil for cooking and lighting, and wood for building and tools. This practical aspect ensured the city's sustenance and economic stability. The olive tree symbolized peace and prosperity, in a time when conflicts were common, a symbol of peace was highly valued and represented a hopeful future for the city. Olive trees are also known for their longevity and resilience, mirroring the lasting prosperity and stability Minerva's gift promised to Athens. (The olive tree would later become a cultural symbol, deeply embedded in Athenian identity and mythology. It represented the wisdom and foresight of choosing a gift that would benefit future generations.) The gift reflected Minerva's own attributes of wisdom, practical thinking, and strategic foresight, qualities highly respected and desired by the Athenians. All these elements combined made Minerva's gift not only practical and beneficial, but also deeply symbolic and aligned with the values of the city.
The citizens of Athens were torn between the two grand gifts. They were initially hesitant to choose between Poseidon and Minerva because they feared angering one of the powerful gods. They understood the potential wrath that could come from displeasing either deity. To address this, they turned to King Cecrops, their wise ruler, to make the decision. King Cecrops weighed the benefits of each gift and chose Minerva’s olive tree for its practical benefits and long-term value to the city. This choice was seen as wise and ensured the prosperity of Athens, even though it risked Poseidon's displeasure and wrath.
Poseidon was obviously displeased and disappointed in that he lost his chance to be the patron of Greece's newest city, but in most versions, he did not seek revenge on the citizens and bowed out gracefully. He then continued to influence the maritime activities of Athens, ensuring that his connection to the sea and naval power was recognized. His influence contributed to Athens becoming a powerful naval force, highlighting that even in his displeasure, he played a role in the city’s development. However, as we've discussed not all tales are the same. In some versions, (Poseidon, out of anger, flooded parts of the city as a form of retaliation. This act demonstrated his power and served as a warning of the consequences of displeasing a god. Despite this, the city eventually recovered and continued to thrive under Minerva's patronage.)
These actions reflect Poseidon's complex character as both a formidable god and a figure capable of influence even in defeat. His reaction adds depth to the myth and showcases the dynamics between the gods in Greek mythology.
In gratitude and recognition of Minerva's gift and her subsequent role as the city's protector and patron, they named the city Athens after her Greek name, Athena. This act solidified her importance to the city's identity and future. Over time, Minerva's influence became deeply ingrained in Athenian culture, politics, and daily life. The olive tree remained a potent symbol of peace and prosperity, and various temples and monuments were erected in her honor, including the Parthenon on the Acropolis. Naming the city after Minerva emphasized the citizens' respect and reverence for her wisdom and practical contributions, laying the foundation for the city's enduring legacy.