Ophiuchus
conceptThe serpent-bearer constellation identified with Asclepius, who learned to resurrect the dead and was placed in the sky by Zeus after being struck down for overstepping mortal limits.
The Myth
Ophiuchus represents Asclepius, the divine physician and son of Apollo, holding the serpent whose venom held the secret of resurrection. Asclepius had learned the art of healing from Chiron the centaur but surpassed all limits when he discovered how to raise the dead using the blood of the Gorgon Medusa, given to him by Athena. He restored Hippolytus, son of Theseus, to life after his fatal chariot accident. This alarmed Hades, who saw his realm of the dead losing subjects, and he complained to Zeus. Zeus agreed that the boundary between life and death must remain inviolate and struck Asclepius with a thunderbolt. But recognising his service to humanity, Zeus placed him in the stars as Ophiuchus. Apollo was furious and killed the Cyclopes who forged the thunderbolt in retaliation.
Parents
Apollo, Coronis
Symbols
Fun Fact
Every few years, astronomers remind the public that the Sun actually passes through 13 constellations, not 12, and that Ophiuchus is the "missing" zodiac sign (Nov 29 - Dec 17). This triggers mass panic among astrology enthusiasts who suddenly question their entire identity — all because Asclepius was too good at medicine 3,000 years ago.
Words We Inherited
English words and phrases that trace back to this myth:
Explore Further
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