What Is the Other Name of Hermes?

Hermes is a well-known figure in Greek mythology, recognized as the god of commerce, travelers, and thieves. However, did you know that Hermes is also known by another name?

That’s right! Hermes has a second name that he goes by in Greek mythology – and it’s none other than Mercury.

The Meaning Behind the Name
The name “Mercury” is derived from the Latin word “merx,” which means merchandise or commerce. It’s interesting to note that this name perfectly aligns with Hermes’ role as the god of commerce.

Hermes’ Role in Greek Mythology
As mentioned earlier, Hermes was the patron god of a variety of things. He was also known as the messenger of gods, responsible for delivering messages between them. Additionally, he was considered the protector of travelers and herdsmen.

    Some of his other duties included:

  • Guiding souls to the underworld
  • Conducting dreams
  • Protecting merchants and their trade
  • Assisting with fertility and childbirth

The Symbolism Behind Mercury’s Iconography
The association between Mercury and commerce extends beyond just his name. His iconography also includes several symbols associated with trade, such as his winged sandals (which allowed him to fly quickly from place to place) and his caduceus (a staff with intertwined snakes that served as a symbol for merchants).

The Connection Between Hermes and Mercury in Roman Mythology

It’s not surprising that Roman mythology had its own version of Hermes – they called him Mercury! However, unlike Greek mythology where Hermes had many responsibilities, Mercury was primarily associated with financial gain.

In Conclusion..

In conclusion, while most people are familiar with Hermes as the Greek god of commerce and travelers, it’s important to remember that he is also known by another name – Mercury. The name “Mercury” is derived from the Latin word for commerce, perfectly encapsulating Hermes’ role as the god of trade.

Additionally, the symbols associated with Mercury further emphasize his connection to commerce. It’s fascinating to see how mythology can reveal so much about ancient cultures and their values.