What was the first labor of Hercules?

The first labor of Hercules was indeed the capture of the Nemean Lion. This task was assigned to him as a punishment for the madness induced by Hera, which led him to unwittingly kill his own family. As part of his penance, Hercules was tasked with completing twelve labors, with the Nemean Lion being the very first.

The Nemean Lion was known for its impenetrable fur, making it nearly invincible. Hercules was required to defeat this lion not just for the glory of his accomplishment but to prove his strength and resilience. After wrestling with the lion, he realized he could not kill it with conventional weapons due to its tough skin. Instead, he ultimately choked the lion to death with his bare hands, showcasing his incredible strength and ingenuity. Afterward, Hercules wore the lion’s skin as armor, symbolizing his victory and strength.

This labor is significant as it sets the stage for the subsequent challenges Hercules would face and marks the beginning of his transformation from a man marked by tragedy to a hero renowned for his mighty exploits.