Hermes, the Greek god of commerce, thieves, travelers, and boundaries, is often depicted wearing winged sandals. But have you ever wondered how he got his famous footwear? Let’s delve into the myth and learn more.
The Birth of Hermes
According to Greek mythology, Hermes was born to Zeus and Maia, a nymph. He was born in a cave on Mount Cyllene in Arcadia. From his birth, Hermes displayed remarkable skills such as cunningness and quick-thinking.
The Theft of Apollo’s Cows
One day, when Hermes was still an infant, he wandered out of his cave and saw a herd of cows belonging to Apollo. Being the mischievous god he was, Hermes decided to steal the cows. To do so without being caught by Apollo or other gods on Mount Olympus, he fashioned shoes from the dried hide of the cows.
The Invention of Winged Sandals
Hermes eventually returned the cows to Apollo but kept one for himself. In return for this favor, Apollo gave Hermes a golden staff known as the Caduceus. It is said that while holding this staff in one hand and wearing his newly-invented winged sandals on his feet, Hermes could fly across great distances with incredible speed.
Symbolism of the Winged Sandals
The winged sandals became an iconic symbol for Hermes as they represented his role as a messenger between gods and humans. They also signified his ability to travel swiftly across great distances.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we can see that Hermes’ famous winged sandals were not just a fashion statement but had an interesting origin story rooted in his mischievous nature and cunningness. These sandals not only helped him steal Apollo’s cows but also became an essential part of his identity as a messenger and traveler.