If you’re interested in Greek mythology, you may have heard of Hermes, the messenger of the gods. But did you know that Hermes also had sacred animals associated with him? In this article, we’ll explore the different animals that were revered by the ancient Greeks in honor of Hermes.
The Importance of Sacred Animals in Greek Mythology
Before we dive into Hermes’ sacred animals, let’s take a moment to understand why animals were considered significant in Greek mythology. In ancient Greece, animals were often seen as symbols of certain gods and goddesses. They were believed to possess qualities and characteristics that mirrored those of the deities they represented.
For example, a lion was associated with strength and courage, which made it a fitting symbol for Hercules. Similarly, a dove was linked to Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty.
Now let’s move on to Hermes’ sacred animals.
The Ram
One of the most well-known sacred animals associated with Hermes is the ram. In Greek mythology, it was said that Hermes created the first lyre (a stringed musical instrument) using a tortoise shell and sheep gut strings. To show his appreciation for this gift from Hermes, Apollo gave him a herd of sheep – one of which was a special ram with golden fleece.
This ram became known as “The Golden Ram” and was revered by Greeks as a symbol of wealth and prosperity. It’s also worth noting that in some depictions, Hermes is shown wearing ram horns on his head – further cementing his association with this animal.
The Tortoise
As we mentioned earlier, Hermes used a tortoise shell to create the first lyre. This act elevated the tortoise to sacred animal status as well. The shell was seen as a symbol of creativity and resourcefulness – qualities that were attributed to Hermes himself.
In some depictions, Hermes is shown carrying a tortoise shell on his back or playing a lyre made from one. The tortoise also appears in some myths as a companion to Hermes, traveling with him on his adventures.
The Hawk
Finally, we have the hawk – another animal that was sacred to Hermes. The hawk was associated with speed and agility, two qualities that were central to Hermes’ role as messenger of the gods. According to some myths, Hermes would sometimes transform into a hawk in order to travel quickly and efficiently.
In addition to this, the hawk was also seen as a symbol of foresight and intuition – traits that were associated with both Hermes and Apollo (who was often depicted alongside hawks).
Conclusion
In Greek mythology, animals played an important role in representing the qualities and characteristics of various gods and goddesses. For Hermes, the ram, tortoise, and hawk all held special significance as sacred animals.
By understanding these associations, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the stories and myths surrounding this fascinating figure from ancient Greek mythology.