Name: ZEUS
Pronunciation: ZOOS
Pantheon: Greek
Domain: King of the Gods, God of the Sky, Thunder, and Lightning

🏛️ Overview / Myth & Story

Zeus is the chief deity of the Greek pantheon, ruler of Mount Olympus, and the god of the sky and thunder. He is the youngest son of the Titans Cronus and Rhea. To prevent being overthrown, Cronus swallowed his children at birth, but Zeus was hidden and eventually forced his father to regurgitate his siblings: Hestia, Demeter, Hera, Hades, and Poseidon.

After leading the Olympians to victory in the Titanomachy (war against the Titans), Zeus established his reign as the supreme ruler. Known for his numerous affairs, he fathered many gods and heroes, causing much drama among gods and mortals alike.

Famous myths involving Zeus include:

• His battle with Typhon

• The creation of Pandora

• The punishment of Prometheus

• His seduction of mortal women like Leda, Alcmene, and Europa

🙏 Worship & Cult

Zeus was one of the most widely venerated gods in ancient Greece. Worship was often conducted on mountaintops, with Mount Olympus and Mount Lykaion being notable sacred sites. Major sanctuaries include:

• Olympia, home to the Olympic Games held in his honor

• Dodona, where his oracle gave prophecies via rustling oak leaves

• Athens, where he had multiple cult titles including Zeus Olympios and Zeus Xenios

Though mainstream worship declined with the rise of Christianity, neo-Hellenic movements still pay homage to Zeus today.

🔱 Symbols, Animals & Weapons

• Thunderbolt (his weapon of choice, forged by the Cyclopes)

• Eagle (his sacred animal)

• Oak tree (symbol of strength and endurance)

• Aegis (a protective shield, often shared with Athena)

👑 Related Gods