Philemon and Baucis

Jupiter and Mercury, disguised as weary travelers, descended to the land of Phrygia to test the hospitality of its people. Door after door was slammed in their faces, the wealthy and comfortable refusing them rest. Finally, they reached a humble cottage of thatch and reeds, home to the elderly Philemon and Baucis. Though poor, the couple welcomed the strangers with genuine warmth, sharing their meager stores of olives, cabbage, and wine. As they ate, Philemon noticed the wine pitcher refilled itself miraculously. Realizing their guests were gods, the couple fell to their knees in awe. Jupiter led them to a mountain, showing them the village swallowed by a flood as punishment for its cruelty, while their humble home was transformed into a golden-roofed temple. Granted one wish, the couple asked to serve the gods together and never face life without the other. Years later, as they stood before the temple, they were transformed into an oak and a linden tree, their branches entwined forever in a silent embrace of love and piety.

“To gods, mankind is a concern; and those who worship are worshipped in return.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the moral of Philemon and Baucis?

The story teaches that true wealth lies in kindness and hospitality toward strangers. It emphasizes that those who are generous despite their poverty will be rewarded, while the selfish face divine justice.

What trees did Philemon and Baucis become?

At the end of their lives, the couple was transformed into an oak and a linden tree. Their branches grew together, symbolizing their inseparable bond and eternal love even after death.

Which gods visited Philemon and Baucis?

The gods Zeus and Hermes (known as Jupiter and Mercury in Roman mythology) visited them. They were disguised as ordinary, weary travelers to test the virtue of the local mortals.

Why did the gods flood the village?

The gods destroyed the village because the inhabitants were cold-hearted and refused to show hospitality to the disguised travelers. Only Philemon and Baucis opened their doors, sparing them from the divine punishment.

What did Philemon and Baucis wish for?

Instead of asking for riches, they asked to be priests of the gods' temple and to die at the exact same moment. They wanted to ensure that neither would ever have to live a single day without the other.

Is the story of Philemon and Baucis Greek or Roman?

While the characters are associated with Phrygia, the most famous version of the story was recorded by the Roman poet Ovid in his masterpiece 'Metamorphoses'.