Have you ever wondered how Hermes, the Greek god of commerce, got a stand? It’s a question that has puzzled many enthusiasts of Greek mythology for years. In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating story of how Hermes acquired his stand and how it became an integral part of his identity.
The Birth of Hermes
Hermes was born to Zeus and the nymph Maia. From birth, he exhibited exceptional intelligence and a natural affinity for commerce. As he grew older, he developed a reputation as a cunning trickster and messenger of the gods.
The Theft of Apollo’s Cattle
One day, while tending to his own herd of cattle, Hermes stumbled upon Apollo’s cattle grazing in a nearby field. Without hesitation, he proceeded to steal Apollo’s cattle and hide them in a cave.
When Apollo discovered that his cattle were missing, he was furious. He searched high and low for his lost cattle but to no avail.
The Meeting with Apollo
Finally, Hermes met with Apollo and offered to return the stolen cattle in exchange for forgiveness. Apollo agreed but demanded that Hermes swear never to steal from him again.
To seal their agreement formally, they decided to invent the lyre together. The lyre was an instrument that would become synonymous with both gods in later years.
The Acquisition of the Stand
As part of their agreement, Apollo gave Hermes a staff or caduceus as a sign of their newfound friendship. The caduceus was adorned with two snakes coiled around it as well as wings at the top.
Over time, this staff became known as Hermes’ stand or symbol. It represented not only his role as a messenger but also his association with commerce and trade.
The Importance of the Stand
The stand or caduceus is an essential part of Hermes’ identity. It not only represents his role as a messenger of the gods but also his association with commerce, travel, and communication. It has become an iconic symbol in Greek mythology and is still used today as a symbol of commerce.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hermes got his stand through a series of events that began with the theft of Apollo’s cattle. His cunning and intelligence allowed him to strike a deal with Apollo that led to the invention of the lyre and the acquisition of the stand.
The stand has become an integral part of Hermes’ identity and is a symbol that represents not only his role as a messenger but also his association with commerce, travel, and communication. It’s fascinating to see how this simple staff has become such an essential part of Greek mythology and continues to be relevant even today.