Ceryneian Hind facts for kids

The Ceryneian Hind was a very special deer in Greek mythology. It was sacred to the goddess Artemis, who was known for hunting and nature. This amazing creature lived near a town called Ceryneia. It was much larger than a normal deer. What made it truly unique were its golden horns and hooves made of bronze or brass. The hero Herakles had to capture this hind as the third of his famous Twelve Labors.

The Ceryneian Hind: A Golden Deer

The Ceryneian Hind was not just any deer. It was a magnificent animal with shining golden antlers, like a crown of sunlight. Its hooves were strong and hard, made of bronze or brass, allowing it to run incredibly fast. This deer was a favorite of Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, wilderness, and wild animals. Because it belonged to a goddess, no one was allowed to harm it.

Herakles' Third Challenge

After completing two difficult tasks, Herakles was given his third labor: to capture the Ceryneian Hind. This task was given to him by King Eurystheus. It seemed simple, but it was actually very tricky. Herakles could not kill the hind because it was sacred to Artemis. He had to bring it back alive to King Eurystheus.

Why Was This Labor Difficult?

Capturing the Ceryneian Hind was hard for several reasons. First, the hind was incredibly fast. It could outrun any hunter. Second, Herakles had to capture it without hurting it. This meant no arrows or weapons that could wound the animal. Third, he had to avoid making Artemis angry. If he harmed her sacred deer, she would surely punish him.

How Herakles Captured the Hind

Herakles spent a whole year chasing the Ceryneian Hind. He pursued it across many lands, through forests and over mountains. He never gave up, always keeping the hind in sight. Finally, after a long chase, the hind grew tired. It stopped by a river to rest. Herakles saw his chance. He used a net or a special arrow that could trap the hind without hurting it. Some stories say he shot it in the leg, but only enough to pin it down without causing injury. He then carefully carried the hind on his shoulders.

The Hind's Special Connection to Artemis

As Herakles was carrying the hind back, he met Artemis and her brother Apollo. Artemis was very angry that Herakles had captured her sacred deer. Herakles explained that he was only following the orders of King Eurystheus. He promised to return the hind to Artemis after showing it to the king. Artemis understood and allowed him to continue. After Herakles showed the hind to Eurystheus, he released it, and it returned to the wilderness, safe with Artemis. This labor showed Herakles's patience, skill, and respect for the gods.

Images for kids

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  Herakles and Apollo struggling over the Hind, as depicted on a Corinthian helmet (early 5th century BC)

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  Athenian plate, c. 560 BC

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  Roman-era bronze, 1st–2nd centuries AD

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  Mosaic from Roman Spain, 3rd century AD

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  Statuette by J. M. Félix Magdalena (b. 1941)

See also

In Spanish: Cierva de Cerinea para niños