Helios: meaning, definitions and examples

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Helios

 

[ˈhiːliəs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

Greek mythology

Helios was the personification of the Sun in Greek mythology. He was often depicted as driving a chariot of fire across the sky, bringing light to the world.

Synonyms

solar deity, sun god.

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Word Description / Examples
Helios

Helios is used primarily in mythological or historical contexts to refer to the ancient Greek personification of the sun.

  • Helios was often depicted driving a chariot across the sky, bringing daylight to the world.
  • The ancient Greeks believed that Helios could see everything that happened during the day.
sun god

Sun god is a more colloquial and general term often used to describe a male deity associated with the sun, across various cultures and mythologies.

  • In Roman mythology, Apollo was considered a sun god.
  • Many ancient civilizations worshipped sun gods as they believed these deities controlled life-giving sunlight.
solar deity

This term is used in a broader, more general context to refer to any god or goddess associated with the sun in various mythologies.

  • Ra is a well-known solar deity in ancient Egyptian mythology.
  • Many cultures have had solar deities who were central to their religious practices.

Examples of usage

  • Helios rode his chariot across the sky every day.
  • The ancient Greeks believed that Helios was responsible for the rising and setting of the sun.

Interesting Facts

Mythology

  • Helios was commonly depicted as a handsome figure with a radiant crown made of sun rays.
  • In some myths, Helios had a sister named Selene, who was the goddess of the moon, showcasing their celestial balance.

Astronomy

  • The sun, named after Helios, is a star located at the center of our solar system, providing light and warmth essential for life.
  • In Greek literature, the sun is sometimes referred to as 'Helios' to highlight its power and position in the cosmos.

Literature

  • The Iliad and the Odyssey frequently reference Helios, portraying his role in ancient Greek society as a vital aspect of daily life.
  • In some stories, Helios plays a role in human affairs, such as revealing truths, demonstrating the belief that gods influenced mortal lives.

Art and Culture

  • Helios has been a popular subject in art, from ancient sculptures to Renaissance paintings, illustrating his importance across cultures.
  • The Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was a giant statue dedicated to Helios, symbolizing the city's prosperity.

Philosophy

  • In some philosophical texts, Helios represented knowledge and enlightenment, as the sun is seen as a source of truth and clarity.
  • The idea of illumination in philosophy often draws parallels to Helios, emphasizing how light can signify intellectual insight.

Translations

Translations of the word "Helios" in other languages:

🇵🇹 Hélio

🇮🇳 हेलिओस

🇩🇪 Helios

🇮🇩 Helios

🇺🇦 Геліос

🇵🇱 Helios

🇯🇵 ヘリオス

🇫🇷 Hélios

🇪🇸 Helios

🇹🇷 Helios

🇰🇷 헬리오스

🇸🇦 هيليوس

🇨🇿 Helios

🇸🇰 Helios

🇨🇳 赫利俄斯

🇸🇮 Helios

🇮🇸 Helios

🇰🇿 Гелиос

🇬🇪 ჰელიოსი

🇦🇿 Helios

🇲🇽 Helios