What Animal Does Hermes Represent?

In Greek mythology, Hermes is one of the twelve Olympian gods and is known as the god of commerce, thieves, travelers, sports, athletes, and border crossings. He was also a messenger of the gods and was often depicted with wings on his sandals and a winged hat. But what animal does Hermes represent?

Hermes is commonly associated with the caduceus, a symbol that features two snakes entwined around a staff. This symbol has been used to represent medicine and healing since ancient times. However, the caduceus is not actually related to Hermes’ animal symbol.

The animal that Hermes represents is the Greek god’s trusted companion – the ram. In some myths, Hermes was said to have been born in a cave on Mount Cyllene in Arcadia where he was discovered by a group of mountain goats. One of these goats was actually a ram who had golden fleece and became Hermes’ loyal companion.

The ram became an important symbol for Hermes as it represents strength, virility, leadership and bravery – all aspects that are associated with this Greek god himself. In fact, it is believed that Hermes would often appear in the form of a ram when he needed to travel quickly or disguise himself from others.

Interestingly enough, there are several other animals that are also associated with Hermes in different mythological stories. For instance, he was also sometimes depicted as having wings like a bird or feathers like an eagle which represented his ability to move swiftly through different realms.

In conclusion, while there are other animals associated with this multifaceted Greek god in different myths and legends – such as birds or eagles – it is clear that the ram is indeed his most common animal symbol. It represents many qualities that were important to him such as strength, virility and bravery – all traits befitting of one of the most important gods in ancient Greek mythology.