ORACLE at DELPHI

The Oracle of Delphi dates back to 1400 BC. It was the most important shrine in all Greece. Built around a sacred spring, Delphi was considered to be the center of the world. In classic Greek mythology, it was chosen by Zeus and became the Temple of Apollo. The Greeks believed that the god, Apollo spoke through the Oracle. People came from all over Greece and beyond to have their questions about the future answered by the Pythia (Oracle), the priestess of Apollo. And her answers, covered every imaginable subject. The answers were often difficult to understand, kind of like a politician. Arguments over the correct interpretation of an oracle were common, but the oracle was always happy to give another prophecy if more gold was provided. (Another political similarity). The lack of a strict religious dogma associated with the worship of Greek gods also encouraged scholars to congregate at Delphi, and it became a focal point for intellectual enquiry, as well as an occasional meeting place where rivals could negotiate. It was neutral ground. The temple was therefore not just for visiting the Oracle but a gathering place for philosophers. All Greek states would send rich gifts to keep the Oracle on their side. As a result, the Temple had huge collections of gold and valuable artworks. It finally came to an end in the 4th century AD when an anti-pagan Christian Roman Emperor put the oracle out of business.