What Does Hermes Rule?

Hermes, the Greek God of commerce, communication, and travel, is one of the most interesting and versatile gods in Greek mythology. He is known by many names such as “the messenger of the gods”, “the guide of the dead”, and “the patron of thieves”.

But what does Hermes rule? Let’s delve into this topic to gain a better understanding of this fascinating deity.

The Role of Hermes in Greek Mythology

Hermes was born to Zeus and Maia, a nymph. He was depicted as a young man with winged sandals and a herald’s staff.

As the messenger of the gods, he was responsible for delivering messages from Zeus to other gods, mortals, and even animals. He was also considered the god of boundaries and transitions since he could move freely between different realms such as heaven, earth, and the underworld.

Hermes’ Domains

Commerce: Hermes was often associated with business transactions and commerce. In ancient Greece, merchants would pray to Hermes before embarking on long journeys to ensure safe travels and successful business deals.

Communication: As mentioned earlier, Hermes was responsible for delivering messages between gods and mortals. However, he was also considered the god of eloquence and speechmaking. This made him revered by people who relied on communication skills such as orators.

Travel: With his winged sandals that allowed him to fly across great distances quickly, it’s no surprise that Hermes was also associated with travel. He was particularly revered by travelers who sought his protection during their journeys.

Thieves: Despite being known for his positive qualities like eloquence and safe travels, Hermes also had negative associations with thieves. This is because he was believed to be able to deceive people easily due to his quick wit.

Hermes’ Symbols

  • Caduceus: The caduceus, a staff with two snakes wrapped around it, is one of the most recognizable symbols of Hermes. It symbolizes commerce and negotiation.
  • Winged Sandals: Hermes’ winged sandals allowed him to fly quickly across great distances.

    They symbolize his role as a messenger between different realms.

  • Petasos: The petasos, a wide-brimmed hat worn by travelers in ancient Greece, is another symbol of Hermes’ association with travel.
  • Talaria: Talaria are winged sandals worn by gods and heroes in Greek mythology. They are usually associated with Hermes since he is the most famous wearer of them.

The Legacy of Hermes

Hermes’ influence can still be seen in modern society. For example, the medical symbol used today, which features a staff with two snakes wrapped around it, is based on the caduceus associated with Hermes. Additionally, many businesses use the name “Hermes” or incorporate his symbols into their logos to evoke qualities like speed and reliability.

In conclusion, Hermes was a multifaceted god who ruled over various domains such as commerce, communication, and travel. His symbols and legacy continue to be influential in modern society.