Who transformed Midas’s ears into those of a donkey?

The transformation of Midas’s ears into those of a donkey is attributed to Dionysus, the god of wine, revelry, and ecstasy. This punishment stems from a story that illustrates the consequences of Midas's actions and his lack of wisdom. Midas had been granted the ability to turn everything he touched into gold, a gift that quickly became a burden rather than a blessing. When he judged a music contest between Apollo and Pan, he foolishly favored Pan over Apollo. Angered by this lack of judgment, Apollo, who is associated with reason and harmony, sent Dionysus to punish Midas. In an act reflecting the foolishness of Midas's arrogance, Dionysus transformed his ears, symbolizing his poor decision-making and inability to appreciate true beauty and art. This story serves as a moral lesson about the importance of wisdom and the consequences of vanity.