Divine intervention is a central theme in the Iliad, where gods and goddesses frequently meddle in human affairs, influencing the course of events in the Trojan War. These interventions highlight the gods' capricious nature and their indifference to human suffering. The gods treat mortals as mere pawns, using them to settle their divine disputes and fulfill their desires. This theme underscores the tension between fate and free will, as the gods' actions often override human intentions and efforts.

The gods' involvement is evident from the outset, as the conflict itself stems from divine actions. Aphrodite's decision to award Paris the prize of Helen sets the stage for the war. Throughout the narrative, gods like Athena and Apollo intervene directly in battles, either aiding or hindering the Greeks and Trojans. For instance, Athena inspires Odysseus to rally the Greeks back to battle, prolonging the war and increasing the death toll. The gods' interventions often exacerbate the conflict, reflecting their manipulative and self-serving nature.

The gods' presence is pervasive, influencing events both on and off the battlefield. Before the Greeks set sail for Troy, Artemis demands a sacrifice from Agamemnon, illustrating the gods' control over human actions. In battle, gods like Aphrodite and Apollo actively participate, sometimes even suffering injuries, as when Diomede wounds Aphrodite. The gods also disguise themselves to deceive and counsel mortals, further demonstrating their direct impact on the war's outcome.

Zeus, the king of the gods, plays a significant role in shaping the war's trajectory. He conspires with Achilles to weaken the Greeks, aiming to elevate Achilles' status and, by extension, his own. Zeus's actions reveal his desire for power and recognition, as he manipulates events to ensure Achilles' eventual triumph. Despite his efforts, Zeus's plans are occasionally thwarted by other gods, showcasing the complex interplay of divine wills that influence the mortal realm.

"Then in answer to her spoke Zeus who gathers the clouds: 'My child, why do you cry out? What sorrow has come to your heart? Tell me, do not hide it, so that we both may know.'"

The interactions between gods and humans in the Iliad reveal a world where divine caprice dictates the fates of mortals. The gods' interventions serve to highlight the fragility of human life and the futility of human endeavors against the backdrop of divine machinations. Through these interactions, Homer explores the complex relationship between gods and humans, emphasizing the gods' power and the limitations of human agency.