What Animal Symbolizes Hermes?

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Hermes, the Greek god of commerce, thieves, travelers, athletes, and messenger of the gods, is often depicted with various animal symbols. In Greek mythology, gods and goddesses were associated with animals that represented their personalities and attributes.

Hermes was no exception. Let’s explore the various animals that symbolize Hermes.

The Ram

One of the most prominent animals associated with Hermes is the ram. The ram symbolizes leadership, courage, determination, and virility. According to mythology, when Hermes was born in a cave on Mount Cyllene in Arcadia, he immediately showed his cleverness by inventing the lyre from a tortoise shell.

He then sacrificed two of Apollo’s cattle and created a diversion using their entrails while he hid the rest of the meat inside his swaddling clothes. When Apollo discovered what had happened, he accused Hermes of theft and took him to Zeus for punishment. However, Zeus was so charmed by Hermes’ wit and intelligence that he declared him innocent and gave him a pair of golden sandals with wings as a reward.

The Tortoise

Another animal symbol associated with Hermes is the tortoise. As mentioned earlier in his story, Hermes used a tortoise shell to invent the lyre. The tortoise symbolizes wisdom and creativity.

The Rooster

The rooster is another animal associated with Hermes. The rooster represents vigilance and watchfulness as it crows at dawn to announce the start of a new day. It is believed that roosters were dedicated to Hermes because they were considered sacred in ancient Greece due to their association with light and watchfulness.

The Snake

The snake is also an important animal symbol for Hermes as it represents fertility, transformation, healing, and regeneration. In mythology it is said that while still an infant in his cradle, Hermes strangled two venomous snakes that Hera had sent to kill him.

The Hawk

The hawk is another bird associated with Hermes. The hawk represents swiftness, agility, and intelligence. It is believed that hawks were dedicated to Hermes because of their ability to see from great distances and their exceptional hunting skills.

The Caduceus

Finally, the Caduceus is not an animal but a symbol associated with Hermes. The Caduceus is a staff with two serpents entwined around it and topped with wings.

It represents commerce, negotiation, and trade. The symbol is often used in modern medicine as a representation of healing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hermes was associated with various animal symbols that represented different aspects of his personality and attributes. From the ram representing leadership and courage, to the tortoise representing wisdom and creativity, to the snake representing fertility and healing – each animal symbol adds depth to his story. The next time you see a rooster crowing or a hawk soaring high in the sky, remember their association with the Greek god Hermes.

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