Hermes is a well-known Greek god of commerce, trade, and travelers. He is often depicted as a youthful messenger with wings on his sandals and a winged cap.
While most people are familiar with the basics of Hermes’ character, there are several lesser-known facts about this famous figure. In this article, we will take a closer look at 3 intriguing facts about Hermes.
Fact #1: Hermes Was Also A God Of Thievery
Hermes was not just the god of commerce and trade but also the god of thievery. He had a reputation for being cunning and sly, which made him the patron of thieves. However, his thieving abilities were not limited to stealing from humans; Hermes was known to steal from other gods as well. One famous story tells how he stole Apollo’s cows when he was still an infant.
The Story Behind The Cows
The story goes that Hermes was born in secrecy and hidden away by his mother Maia in a cave. One day when he was only a few hours old, he snuck out of the cave and came across Apollo’s herd of cows. Being mischievous as he was, Hermes decided to steal them.
He made shoes for the cows so they wouldn’t leave any tracks behind while leading them back to his hideout. When Apollo discovered that his cows were missing, he searched high and low but couldn’t find them anywhere.
Finally, after a few days, Apollo found where Hermes had hidden the cows and demanded their return. However, being the smooth talker that he was, Hermes managed to convince Apollo to let him keep two of the cows as his prize for being such an excellent thief.
Fact #2: Hermes Was The Patron Of Athletes
In addition to being the patron of commerce and trade, Hermes was also the patron of athletes. He was believed to have invented various sports and games, including boxing, running, and wrestling. Moreover, Hermes was also responsible for creating the first Olympic Games.
The Birth Of The Olympics
According to Greek mythology, the first Olympic Games were held in Olympia in honor of Zeus. Hermes played a crucial role in organizing these games and became known as the protector of all athletes. During the games, a statue of Hermes was erected and filled with olive oil to symbolize victory.
This tradition continues today with modern-day Olympic Games. The Olympic flame is still lit using a mirror reflecting sunlight, just like how it was done during ancient times. Moreover, a wreath made from olive branches is still awarded to winners as a symbol of victory.
Fact #3: Hermes Was A Psychopomp
Hermes was not just a god but also a psychopomp. In Greek mythology, psychopomps were entities that helped guide souls to the afterlife. They were often depicted as animals or winged beings that would lead souls through various stages of death.
The Role Of Psychopomps
Hermes’ role as a psychopomp involved guiding souls to Hades’ realm after they had passed away. His duties included leading them through various trials and tribulations along the way and ensuring that they reached their final destination safely. He was also responsible for guarding the entrance to Hades’ realm and preventing living humans from entering without permission.
This role as psychopomp made Hermes an essential figure in Greek mythology. His ability to navigate between worlds made him both respected by humans and revered by other gods.
In conclusion, Hermes may have been known for his role as the god of commerce and trade, but he was much more than that. His cunning, inventiveness, and ability to navigate between worlds made him a crucial figure in Greek mythology. Whether he was stealing cows from Apollo or guiding souls to Hades’ realm, Hermes’ legacy continues to captivate us today.