Through Divine Intervention: The Greeks attributed significant events, misfortunes, and victories to the direct actions of the gods. Divine intervention could shape the course of human affairs, such as the Trojan War triggered by the quarrel among Aphrodite, Hera, and Athena over the golden apple.
Fate (Moira): The Greeks believed in a preordained fate for individuals and events, controlled by the three Fates (Moirai): Clotho (the spinner), Lachesis (the measurer), and Atropos (the cutter). The Fates were responsible for weaving, measuring, and cutting the thread of life.
Oracles: The Greeks sought divine guidance through oracles. Oracles were holy places associated with certain deities, such as the Oracle of Delphi dedicated to Apollo. The oracles would deliver cryptic prophecies, often interpreted by priests or seers.
Dreams: Dreams were believed to be a channel of communication between gods and humans. Gods were thought to send messages, warnings, and guidance through dreams, which were often analyzed and interpreted by soothsayers.
Divine Justice and Punishment: The gods were seen as enforcers of moral order. They punished hubris (excessive pride) and rewarded virtues. Greek myths frequently depict stories of individuals and entire cities being punished for offenses against the gods.
Guardian Deities: Each city-state had patron deities who protected and watched over the community. Athens was under the protection of Athena, while Sparta was guarded by Artemis.
Prophets and Seers: Certain individuals were believed to have the gift of prophecy or foresight. These prophets or seers, like the blind seer Tiresias, could interpret divine signs and communicate messages from the gods to humans.
Personal Daimones: The concept of a personal guardian spirit or daimon was prevalent in Greek beliefs. Each person was thought to have a daimon that guided and influenced their actions.
It's worth noting that Greek mythology is vast and diverse, and there could be variations and interpretations of how gods controlled humans across different regions, time periods, and personal beliefs within ancient Greece.