Lucian Prometheus 19

On the other hand, men are obliged to use fire, not only for other purposes but above all for the sacrifices, in order that they may be able “to fill the ways with savour” and to burn incense and consume meat on the altars. Indeed, I notice that you all take particular pleasure in the smoke and think it the most delightful of banquets when the savour comes up to heaven

curling about the smoke.

Iliad1, 317. This criticism, therefore, is directly opposed to your own desire. I wonder, moreover, that you haven’t prevented the sun from shining on men, for he is fire too, and of a far more divine and ardent sort. Do you find fault with him for dissipating your property? I have said my say. Now then, Hermes and Hephaestus, if you think I have said anything wrong take me to task and confute me, and I will plead in reply.

To man, on the other hand, fire is indispensable for many purposes, particularly for those of sacrifice how else are they to fill their streets with the savour of burntofferings, and the fumes of frankincense? how else to burn fat thigh-pieces upon your altars? I observe that you take a particular pleasure in the steam arising therefrom, and think no feast more delicious than the smell of roast meat, as it mounts heavenwards Your present complaint, you see, is sadly at variance with this taste. I wonder you do not forbid the Sun to shine on mankind. He too is of fire, and fire of a purer and diviner quality. Has anything been said to Sim about his lavish expenditure of your property? And now I have done. If there is any flaw in my defence, it is for you two to refute me. I shall answer your objections in due course.