Who is Hercules?
Hercules is the disciple at the threshold — conscious of his dual nature, equipped with divine gifts, yet choosing also the humble weapon of his own making. The myth sets the stage for the Twelve Labors as the proving ground of his freedom, service, and soul‑revelation, both as an individual and collectively as Humanity.
Hercules stood before his Master, sensing an inner crisis that had changed his outlook and resolve. Asked his name, he replied “Heracles, or Hercules — the precious glory of Hera, the radiance of the soul.” He questioned the Master about the soul, who told him it would be revealed through his work. Hercules acknowledged his dual parentage — divine father and earthly mother — and spoke of his twin nature: one mortal, one divine.
He recounted his education, mastery of arts and sciences, and his search for self‑knowledge. He confessed that in his quest for freedom he had “slain his teachers,” symbolizing the rejection of old authorities, and now sought truth within himself. The Master affirmed this as wisdom but warned that his freedom would be tested again: by the lion (Leo), by the slain teachers (Gemini), and by desire (Scorpio). Hercules must prove his words through service, not boast of them.
The Presiding One in the Council instructed that the gods be summoned to equip the new disciple. Each deity bestowed a symbolic gift:
- Minerva gave a finely woven tunic (wisdom and protection).
- Vulcan forged a golden breastplate (strength of heart).
- Neptune offered two powerful horses (control of forces).
- Mercury presented a silver‑sheathed sword (discrimination and skill).
- Apollo gave a radiant bow of light (spiritual vision, to be mastered through many trials).
Hercules received these gifts with youthful pride, boasting of his strength. But then he paused, laid aside the divine weapons, and returned from the forest carrying a simple wooden club of his own making. “This is my gift,” he declared, “my own tool, born of my effort. With this I will prove my deeds.”
Only then did the Master say: “Go forth to your work.”