In ancient Greek religious belief, Hades, often referred to as “the Unseen,” is recognized as the deity of the underworld. As a son of the Titans Cronus and Rhea, he is also the brother to prominent figures such as Zeus, Poseidon, Demeter, Hera, and Hestia. This realm known as the underworld, depicted in art as a shadowy domain, is illustrated through various representations including a famous engravement from the 18th century featuring Charon, the ferryman of the dead, and Cerberus, the formidable three-headed dog who guards its entrance. Central to this portrayal is Hades himself, alongside his queen, Persephone.
Following the defeat of Cronus, Hades obtained dominion over the underworld, ruling it together with Persephone. This realm of Hades is often referred to as “the house of Hades” where he exercises authority over the deceased and governs the infernal entities. Although Hades oversees the trials and punishments for souls in the afterlife, he does not take part in the judgment process; that role is designated to the Furies. Hades is often depicted as a stern and unyielding figure, seemingly indifferent to the offerings presented to him, embodying the inevitability of death.
The duality of Hades’ nature is fascinating; while characterized by somber and remote qualities, he simultaneously possesses attributes that are more benevolent. Often worshiped under euphemistic names like Clymenus (“the Renowned”) or Eubouleus (“Good Counsellor”), Hades is sometimes referred to as chthonios or “chthonian Zeus,” connecting him to the earth’s fertility. His title, Pluto or Pluton, meaning “Wealth,” likely stems from the belief that he accumulates all living entities into his treasury through death.
The Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible employs the term Hades to translate Sheol, a term indicating a dimly-lit afterlife region for the deceased. Tartarus, which initially represented the abyss beneath Hades serving as a punishment area, gradually became synonymous with Hades itself, losing its original distinctiveness over time.
