In Greek mythology, Hades is known as the god of the underworld and is often depicted as a dark and ominous figure. However, it is a little-known fact that Hades had an ally in the form of the messenger god, Hermes. In this article, we will explore the relationship between Hades and Hermes and whether or not Hermes provided assistance to Hades.
Who was Hermes
Before we delve into the topic at hand, let us first take a brief look at who Hermes was. In Greek mythology, Hermes was the son of Zeus and Maia.
He was often depicted as a young man with winged sandals and a winged hat, carrying a staff known as a caduceus. He was known as the messenger god and was responsible for delivering messages between the gods and mortals.
Who was Hades
Hades, on the other hand, was one of Zeus’s brothers and ruled over the underworld. He was often seen as a stern figure who ruled over the dead with an iron fist. Many feared him and avoided speaking his name for fear of drawing his attention.
The Relationship Between Hermes and Hades
While they were from different branches of the Greek pantheon, it is said that Hermes and Hades had a cordial relationship. As both gods had control over different domains (Hermes over travel and messaging while Hades ruled over death), they did not have any conflicts of interest.
It is believed that during one particular instance, when Persephone (Hades’ wife) was kidnapped by him to become his queen in the underworld, it was Hermes who played a pivotal role in her return to her mother Demeter. It is said that he acted as an intermediary between Zeus (who had given his permission for Persephone’s abduction) and Demeter (Persephone’s mother who was devastated by her daughter’s disappearance).
Did Hermes Help Hades
Now, the question remains: did Hermes help Hades While there is no concrete evidence to suggest that Hermes actively aided Hades in his duties, it is believed that he did assist him in maintaining order within the underworld.
It is said that Hermes acted as a psychopomp (a guide for souls) and led the newly dead into the underworld. He also served as a mediator between Hades and the living. As many feared Hades, they often approached Hermes with their requests or concerns, and he would then convey them to Hades.
Furthermore, it is believed that Hermes played a role in ensuring that the souls of the dead were properly judged before being sent to their final destination. It is said that he would guide the souls to the judges of the underworld and ensure that justice was served.
In Conclusion
While it cannot be definitively stated whether or not Hermes actively helped Hades, there is no denying that he played an important role in maintaining order within the underworld. His duties as a messenger god allowed him to act as an intermediary between Hades and both the living and dead, ensuring that communication flowed smoothly between all parties involved.