Is There a Special Myth About Hermes?

Hermes, the Greek god of commerce, thieves, travelers, and athletes, is one of the most well-known figures in Greek mythology. He is often depicted as a young man wearing a winged hat and sandals, carrying a staff known as the caduceus.

But what makes Hermes so special? Is there a special myth about him? Let’s explore.

The Birth of Hermes

According to Greek mythology, Hermes was born in a cave on Mount Cyllene in Arcadia. His mother was Maia, one of the Pleiades and daughter of Atlas.

His father was Zeus, king of the gods. As an infant, Hermes showed remarkable intelligence and wit.

The Trickster God

Hermes was known for his mischievous nature and love for pranks. He was often depicted as a trickster god who would play pranks on both mortals and gods alike.

One of his most famous pranks involved stealing Apollo’s cattle shortly after he was born. To avoid getting caught by Apollo, he disguised himself with branches and leaves to hide their tracks.

The Messenger God

Aside from being a trickster god, Hermes was also known as the messenger god. He would often deliver messages from the gods to mortals and vice versa. He was also responsible for escorting souls to the afterlife.

The Psychopomp

In addition to being a messenger god, Hermes was also known as the psychopomp or guide of souls to Hades’ realm. He would often be depicted leading souls across the river Styx with his caduceus.

The Patron Saint of Athletes

Aside from being associated with commerce and travelers, Hermes was also known as the patron saint of athletes. This is because he invented various sports such as boxing and wrestling.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hermes was a multifaceted god who was known for his mischievous nature, intelligence, and love for pranks. He was responsible for delivering messages from the gods to mortals, guiding souls to the afterlife, and inventing various sports. His legacy lives on today in various forms such as the caduceus symbol used in medicine and the Hermès fashion brand.