What Does Hermes Symbolizes?

Hermes is one of the most well-known gods in Greek mythology. Often depicted as a messenger god, Hermes is a symbol of many things. In this article, we will take a closer look at what Hermes symbolizes and how his symbols are still relevant today.

Who is Hermes?

Before we get into what Hermes represents, let’s first discuss who he was. In Greek mythology, Hermes was the son of Zeus and Maia.

He was known as the messenger of the gods and was responsible for delivering messages between the gods and mortals. He was also known for his cunning and wit.

Hermes’ Symbols

Hermes had several symbols that were associated with him. These symbols were not only used to represent him but also to give meaning to various aspects of life.

The Caduceus

One of Hermes’ most well-known symbols is the caduceus. This symbol features two snakes wrapped around a winged staff. The caduceus is often used as a symbol of medicine and healing.

The Winged Sandals

Another popular symbol associated with Hermes is his winged sandals. These sandals allowed him to move quickly and easily, making him an ideal messenger for the gods.

The Petasos

The petasos was a wide-brimmed hat that was often worn by travelers in Ancient Greece. This hat became one of Hermes’ symbols because he was often depicted wearing it during his travels as a messenger god.

The Tortoise

The tortoise was another animal that was associated with Hermes. According to mythology, Hermes created the first lyre using a tortoise shell.

What Does Hermes Symbolize?

Now that we have discussed some of Hermes’ symbols let’s dive into what they represent.

Messenger of the Gods

As previously mentioned, Hermes was known as the messenger of the gods. This means that he was responsible for delivering messages between the gods and mortals. As a symbol, Hermes represents communication and the exchange of information.

Travel

Hermes was also known for his ability to travel quickly and easily. This makes him a symbol of travel and adventure.

Cunning and Wit

Hermes was known for his cunning and quick thinking. As a symbol, he represents intelligence, wit, and resourcefulness.

Commerce

In addition to his other symbols, Hermes was also associated with commerce. This is because he was often depicted as a patron of merchants and traders.

In Conclusion

Hermes is a multi-faceted god with many symbols associated with him. From the caduceus to the winged sandals, each symbol has its own meaning and significance.

Today, these symbols continue to be used in various fields such as medicine, travel, and commerce. As a messenger god, Hermes represents communication and exchange of information – something that is just as important today as it was in Ancient Greece.