Gods, in classical mythology, are said to have golden blood, or ichor, due to its connection with their divine sustenance and immortal nature.
Ichor: The Blood of the Gods
Ichor isn't exactly "blood" as we understand it in mortal terms. It is described as the ethereal fluid that flows through the veins of Greek gods. Its golden color and unique properties are attributed to:
- Divine Sustenance: The gods consume ambrosia and nectar, the food and drink of the immortals. Ichor is believed to retain the qualities of these divine substances. This implies that the golden color and special properties of ichor are a direct result of the gods' otherworldly diet.
- Immortality: Ichor is intrinsically linked to the gods' immortality. It's what sets them apart from mortals, whose blood is red and linked to mortality.
- Toxicity to Mortals: The ichor is toxic to humans. Contact with it could instantly kill a mortal, highlighting the fundamental difference in composition and power between gods and humans. This showcases the dangers of the divine and the gulf separating the mortal and immortal realms.
In summary, the golden color and unique properties of ichor, the blood of the gods, are a result of their divine diet of ambrosia and nectar and is vital to their immortality, while also being dangerous to mortals.
