Have you ever wondered if Hermes, the Greek god of commerce and messenger of the gods, had a lyre? The answer to this question is not as straightforward as one might think. While many depictions of Hermes show him holding a caduceus, a winged staff with two serpents wrapped around it, there are also some representations of Hermes with a lyre.
According to Greek mythology, Hermes was born in a cave on Mount Cyllene in Arcadia. His mother was Maia, one of the Pleiades, and his father was Zeus. From a young age, Hermes showed his cleverness and cunning by stealing Apollo’s cattle and inventing the lyre.
But did Hermes really have a lyre? The answer is yes and no.
While it is true that Hermes invented the lyre, he did not necessarily possess one himself. In fact, most depictions of Hermes holding a lyre are actually representations of him playing Apollo’s lyre.
In Greek mythology, Apollo was known for his musical talents and was often depicted playing the lyre. One day while tending his cattle, Apollo discovered that Hermes had stolen them. In exchange for returning the cattle to Apollo unharmed, Hermes offered to give him the newly invented lyre as a gift.
Apollo accepted the offer and was delighted with the new instrument. From that day forward, he became known as the god of music and poetry. Meanwhile, Hermes continued to use his wit and cunning to make mischief throughout the ancient world.
So while it is true that Hermes played a significant role in the invention of the lyre, he did not necessarily possess one himself. Instead, most depictions of him holding a lyre are actually representations of him playing Apollo’s instrument.
In conclusion, while many depictions of Hermes show him holding a caduceus or playing a lyre, there is more myth than fact behind these images. While it is true that Hermes invented the lyre, he did not necessarily possess one himself.