In Greek mythology, Pandora was the first human woman created by the gods, specifically by Hephaestus and Athena on the instructions of Zeus. As Hesiod related it, each god helped create her by giving her unique gifts. Zeus ordered Hephaestus to mold her out of earth as part of the punishment of humanity for Prometheus theft of the secret of fire, and all the gods joined in offering her "seductive gifts". According to the myth, Pandora opened a jar, releasing all the evils of humanity, leaving only Hope inside once she had closed it again.