Greek MythsMythical Creatures

Python the Serpent

Apollo slays the monstrous serpent Python to bring light and prophecy to the sacred site of Delphi.

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Illustration for Python the Serpent - a mythical creatures Greek Myths story with moral lessons

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Story Summary

Discover the epic tale of Python the Serpent, the monstrous guardian of Delphi slain by the sun god Apollo to establish the world's most famous oracle site.

In the early days of the world, Python, a monstrous serpent born of the primordial slime after the great flood, guarded the sacred chasm on Mount Parnassus. The creature was sent by Hera to pursue Leto, preventing her from finding rest to give birth to her divine twins. When the sun god Apollo reached maturity, he sought vengeance for his mother. Armed with a golden bow and arrows forged by Hephaestus, the young god descended upon Delphi. A fierce battle ensued as Python’s massive coils lashed out, but Apollo remained undaunted, piercing the beast with a volley of divine shafts. With Python defeated, Apollo claimed the site as his own, establishing the Oracle of Delphi and the Pythian Games to commemorate his victory over the darkness of the earth.

The Moral

True strength and divine light will eventually overcome the most deep-seated shadows and chaos.

“By the golden light of his arrows, the sun god silenced the ancient darkness of the earth.”

Fun Fact

The term 'Pythia,' used for the High Priestess of the Temple of Apollo, is derived directly from the name Python.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the moral of Python the Serpent?

The story teaches that light and order will eventually triumph over chaos and darkness. It also highlights the importance of courage when facing overwhelming, primordial challenges.

Who killed the serpent Python?

The Greek god Apollo killed Python using a volley of golden arrows. This act was both an act of vengeance for his mother, Leto, and a way to claim the sacred site of Delphi.

Why did Python chase Leto?

Hera, the queen of the gods, sent Python to pursue Leto because she was jealous of Leto’s affair with Zeus. The serpent was meant to prevent Leto from finding a place to give birth to Apollo and Artemis.

What happened to Delphi after Python's death?

After defeating the serpent, Apollo established his famous oracle at the site. The priestess who delivered his prophecies was named the Pythia in honor of the fallen serpent.

What were the Pythian Games?

The Pythian Games were one of the four Panhellenic Games of Ancient Greece. They were held every four years at Delphi to honor Apollo’s victory over the serpent Python.

Is Python the Serpent related to modern snakes?

In mythology, Python was a unique monstrous child of Gaia, but the term 'python' was later adopted by biologists to classify a family of large, non-venomous snakes.