Asclepius Didn't start off being a god, however. It is now believed that he was an true historic figure, renowned for his healing qualities. When he and his sons, Machaon and Podalirios, are pointed out during the Iliad in around the 8th century BCE, they don't seem to be gods. https://leedirectory.com/listings13154688/examine-this-report-on-%E4%B8%AD%E5%8C%BB-cheras