Hercules' Eighth Labor: Capturing the Mares of Diomedes — A Luciferian Reading
In the eighth labor, Hercules is tasked with capturing the man-eating mares of Diomedes, a Thracian king notorious for his cruelty. These mares, tethered with iron chains to a bronze manger, were fed human flesh—an inversion of their natural symbolism as noble, free creatures tied to fertility, speed, and partnership. This grotesque transformation embodies the perversion of both natural order and sacred hospitality (xenia—the revered Greek tradition of generously and safely hosting strangers and guests), turning a symbol of grace into a vessel of horror.
The Mares as Manifestations of Inner Savagery
From a Luciferian perspective, the mares symbolize the untamed, destructive impulses lurking within the human psyche. Their insatiable hunger for flesh reflects the dangers of allowing primal urges to dominate, leading to a loss of humanity and moral decay. Diomedes, as their master, represents the conscious choice to indulge and perpetuate these base instincts. His demise—being fed to his own mares—serves as a stark reminder of the self-destructive nature of unchecked savagery.
The Sacrifice of Abderus: A Cautionary Tale
Hercules entrusts the mares to his companion, Abderus, while confronting Diomedes. Upon returning, he discovers that Abderus has been devoured by the mares. This tragic event illustrates the danger in outsourcing inner work —delegating personal responsibilities or the confrontation of one's internal struggles to others. Personal transformation requires direct engagement; avoidance can lead to collateral damage.
Taming the Beasts: The Path to Sovereignty
After feeding Diomedes to the mares, their madness subsides, and they become docile. This act symbolizes the necessity of confronting and integrating one's shadow aspects to achieve mastery over them. By facing the darkness head-on, Hercules transforms chaos into order, reclaiming personal sovereignty. This act not only asserts dominion over the external threat but also embodies core Luciferian ideals—willful confrontation, disciplined integration, and the forging of a higher self through mastery of the primal.
The Founding of Abdera: Honoring the Fallen
In memory of Abderus, Hercules founds the city of Abdera. This gesture reflects the importance of acknowledging the sacrifices made during the journey of self-discovery and transformation. It serves as a testament to the cost of enlightenment and the value of honoring those who aid us along the path.
Through the lens of Luciferian philosophy, Hercules' eighth labor is more than a mythological feat; it is an allegory for the internal struggle against destructive impulses. By confronting and integrating these aspects, one can achieve true self-mastery and transformation.