In Greek mythology, Hades and his brothers Zeus and Poseidon defeated the Titans in battle. They split the world between the three of them, with Poseidon being ruler of the seas, Zeus being ruler of the skies, and Hades being lord of the earth/underworld. His alternate name Plouton apparently means ‘riches’ referring to the fact that all wealth is derived from the bounty of the earth. Although he is technically the god of the dead, he is also portrayed as one who keeps balance in the world. Although he can seem cold and stern, Hades dispenses justice with a fair and impartial hand.
The most famous Hades story is that of his abduction of his wife Persephone. He feeds her a pomegranate seed before she goes to visit her mother Demeter so that she is bound to return to him. Demeter is angry about her daughter being stolen from her and curses the world with darkness, cold, and barrenness. A compromise is struck which allows Persephone to be on earth part of the year and in the underworld with Hades the other part of the year. This myth explains our seasons.
Another myth has to do with a nymph called Minthe who loved Hades thereby incurring the wrath of Persephone who trampled her into the ground where she was transformed into a mint plant.
My blend for this powerful lord of the underworld begins with a surprisingly fresh spray of Peppermint and Pomegranate. Hades introduces his realm to you with earthy Amyris and rich fig. He then draws you down to the depths with Myrrh, Vetiver, and musks.
