If you’ve ever heard of Greek mythology, then you must have heard of Hermes, the god of commerce, thieves, and travelers. This ancient god was also known for his cunning and wit, making him a popular figure in many stories and legends.
But have you ever wondered what Hermes is called or referred to in different cultures and languages? Let’s take a closer look.
In Greek mythology, Hermes was known by several names and titles. One of his most common epithets was “the messenger of the gods,” as he was responsible for delivering messages between the gods and mortals. He was also known as “the god of boundaries and transitions,” since he could easily move between different worlds and realms.
In Roman mythology, Hermes was known by a different name – Mercury. The Romans adopted many elements of Greek mythology into their own pantheon, but they often gave the gods Roman names. Mercury was also associated with commerce and travel, much like his Greek counterpart.
In Egyptian mythology, there is a god named Thoth who bears some similarities to Hermes. Thoth was the god of writing, wisdom, and magic, and he was often depicted with the head of an ibis bird. While Thoth is not identical to Hermes, there are certainly some overlapping attributes between them.
In Hindu mythology, there is a deity named Budha who is sometimes associated with Hermes or Mercury. Budha is the god of communication and commerce, much like his counterparts in other mythologies.
In Norse mythology, there is a figure named Odin who shares some similarities with Hermes. Odin was known for his wisdom and knowledge, as well as his ability to travel between different worlds. He even had two ravens that would fly around the world to gather information for him – much like how Hermes would deliver messages for the other gods.
As you can see, throughout history people have attributed different names to this god depending on their culture or language. While the names may vary, the core attributes of Hermes – his association with commerce, travel, and communication – remain the same.
In conclusion, Hermes is known by many names and titles in different cultures and mythologies. Whether he is called Mercury, Thoth, Budha, or something else entirely, his legacy as a god of commerce and communication continues to live on through the ages.