The SAGITTARIUS Myth

The name Sagittarius is derived from the
Latin word for arrow, Sagitta. The constellation commemorates the famous centaur, half man, half horse, Chiron. He was born to Chronus and Philyra, the daughter of the sea god Oceanus, and while growing up was instructed by Apollo and Artemis. They taught him music, medicine, archery and gymnastics along with the healing sciences. As he grew his wisdom increased and he became tutor to several of the god's children. Amongst Chiron's pupils were Jason, Achilles and Hercules. Famed as a physician, it was said he could bring back men from the very gates of the underworld and return them to good health.
It was in Chiron's cave that Jason first heard tales of the legendary Golden Fleece. It was also one of his pupils that brought about his untimely death.
Hercules had returned from his many triumphs on the battlefield to visit his old teacher. As Hercules related his tales of bravery and glory, Chiron strolled across to the packhorse that carried Hercules' supplies. Ever curious, the centaur drew an arrow from a quiver made from the finest leather. Seeing this Hercules cried out ‘Be careful my friend! Those arrows are tipped with a deadly poison. I killed the Erymanthian boar with one of those.’ Chiron, thinking the use of poison beneath a great warrior, cast the deadly arrow onto the ground. Tragically it fell awkwardly and bounced back scratching the old centaur on the shin.
As Hercules ran forward Chiron fell to the ground crying out in agony. He lay for hours, his head cradled in the mighty hero's arms. Not only was there no known antidote for the poison, but Chiron, being a centaur, was immortal. The weeping Hercules knew his old friend would have to suffer eternal agony. Chiron raised his head and begged the gods for mercy. Zeus, hearing his plea, granted his wish and as Hercules watched, Chiron gradually faded away.
Zeus took his broken body and placed him in the sky to fly for all eternity as Sagittarius, the wise archer, whose bow is forever drawn and aimed at the heart of Scorpio.