This is beautifully portrayed in the fable of the death of Hyacinthus that will be given in the next number. His reputation as a god of health, all powerful to protect against physical maladies is not damaged, though, in exceptional cases, his rays smite and destroy. But the healing that he brings is not alone for the outward “ills that flesh is heir to.” Diseases of the mind he cures or mitigates. Sin and crime flee from the light, and troubled souls, that escape from guilt, find consolation.
Even those pursued by the Furies he sometimes receives with tenderness and pity—a fine instance of which is found in the oft told story of Orestes.
Much of his healing power connects with his character as god of music, and from the fact of its soothing, tranquilizing influence on the soul of man.
His favorite instrument was the lyre, on which he played with masterly skill at the banquets of the gods, while the Muses accompanied him with their wondrous strains. He was regarded as the leader of the Muses and all the great singers of antiquity, as Orpheus and Linus, are mythically represented as his sons.
Of his prophetic character, statues, temples, and worship we will speak hereafter.
TEMPERANCE TEACHINGS OF SCIENCE;
Or, THE POISON PROBLEM.
BY FELIX L. OSWALD, M.D.