What Did Hermes Promise in Homeric Hymns?

In Homeric Hymns, Hermes is a Greek god who is known for his cunning and quick thinking. He is often associated with travelers, thieves, and merchants. The son of Zeus and Maia, Hermes was born in a cave on Mount Cyllene in Arcadia.

Hermes was a god of many promises. In the Homeric Hymns, he made several promises to different gods and goddesses. One of the most notable promises he made was to Apollo.

According to the Homeric Hymn to Hermes, Hermes stole Apollo’s cattle shortly after his birth. When Apollo discovered that his cattle were missing, he went to Zeus to complain. Zeus then ordered Hermes to return the cattle to Apollo.

Hermes promised Apollo that he would return the cattle if Apollo could teach him how to play the lyre in just one day. Apollo agreed to this deal, and Hermes quickly learned how to play the instrument. He then returned the cattle to Apollo.

Another promise that Hermes made in the Homeric Hymns was to his mother Maia. In the Hymn to Hermes, Maia asks her son where he has been all night. She suspects that he has been up to no good.

Hermes promises his mother that he has not been doing anything wrong. He then goes on to explain how he spent his night stealing cattle from Apollo and making a lyre out of a tortoise shell.

In addition to these promises, Hermes also made a promise in the Homeric Hymns to Aphrodite. In the Hymn to Aphrodite, Hermes offers her his services as a messenger.

He promises that he will be able deliver messages between Aphrodite and her lover Ares without anyone finding out about their affair. This promise shows Hermes’ cunning and ability as a messenger.

Overall, Hermes’ promises in the Homeric Hymns demonstrate his resourcefulness and quick thinking. He is a god who is not afraid to take risks and make deals in order to get what he wants. Whether it’s stealing cattle or playing music, Hermes always finds a way to come out on top.