Iphitus (son of Eurytus)

Iphitus (son of Eurytus) was a figure in Greek mythology. He was the son of Eurytus, king of Oechalia, and Antiope. He is best known for his connection to the hero Heracles.

Iphitus was renowned for his skill in archery, a trait he likely inherited from his father. The most prominent story involving Iphitus concerns the theft of Eurytus' cattle. While some traditions attribute the theft to Autolycus, a notorious trickster, others suggest Heracles was wrongly accused.

In an attempt to locate the stolen cattle, Iphitus traveled throughout Greece. His search eventually led him to Tiryns, where Heracles resided, undergoing a period of servitude to King Eurystheus. Iphitus, trusting Heracles' reputation for strength and honesty, sought his assistance in finding the lost cattle.

Heracles offered his help, but during a fit of madness, brought on by Hera, he threw Iphitus from the walls of Tiryns, killing him. This act violated the sacred laws of hospitality (xenia) and incurred a severe pollution (miasma) upon Heracles. To atone for this deed, Heracles sought purification from Neleus in Pylos, but Neleus refused. Heracles then traveled to Delphi and consulted the oracle, who instructed him to serve Queen Omphale of Lydia for a period of servitude. This servitude was designed to expiate the guilt of Iphitus' murder.

The death of Iphitus serves as a pivotal event in the Heracles mythos, contributing to his penance and subsequent labors. It also highlights the importance of xenia in ancient Greek society and the grave consequences of violating such sacred bonds. Iphitus' bow was later given to Odysseus, who used it to slay the suitors in Homer's Odyssey.