Hermes, the messenger god of Greek mythology, was a complex deity with a fascinating belief system. He was known for his cunning, wit, and ability to traverse between the mortal and divine realms with ease. In this article, we will explore what Hermes believed in and how it influenced his role in Greek mythology.
The Beliefs of Hermes
Hermes was one of the Olympian gods who held a significant place in Greek mythology. His beliefs were shaped by his role as the messenger of the gods and his association with commerce, travel, thieves, and sports. According to ancient Greek beliefs, Hermes was believed to be the patron of travelers and merchants.
Trickery and Deception
One of the primary beliefs that Hermes held was trickery and deception. He was known to be mischievous and often played pranks on other gods like Apollo. This belief is reflected in many stories in Greek mythology where Hermes outwits other gods or humans through cunning tactics.
For example, In one story, Hermes stole Apollo’s cattle by making them walk backward so that their tracks would lead Apollo astray. When Apollo learned what had happened, he demanded that Hermes return the cattle immediately.
The Importance of Communication
As the messenger god, communication held great importance for Hermes. He believed that delivering messages accurately and efficiently was crucial for maintaining order among the gods.
For example, In one story, Zeus sent Hermes to deliver a message to Hades about releasing Persephone from the underworld. Hermes delivered the message promptly and accurately which led to Persephone’s release.
The Significance of Dreams
Hermes also had a strong belief in dreams as a means of communication between mortals and gods. According to ancient Greek beliefs, dreams were seen as messages from the gods that could reveal important information or warnings.
For example, In one story, Hermes appeared in a dream to Agamemnon and instructed him to sacrifice his daughter Iphigenia to appease the gods. This belief in dreams as a means of communication is also reflected in the practice of dream interpretation that was prevalent in ancient Greece.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hermes’ beliefs were shaped by his role as the messenger of the gods and his association with commerce, travel, thieves, and sports. He believed in trickery and deception, communication, and the significance of dreams as a means of communication between mortals and gods. These beliefs influenced his actions and role in Greek mythology and continue to fascinate people today.