Hermes is one of the most fascinating and complex figures in Greek mythology. He is known as the messenger of the gods, the god of commerce and thieves, and the protector of travelers.
But how did Hermes come to be? What is his creation story?
According to Greek mythology, Hermes was born in a cave on Mount Cyllene in Arcadia. His mother was Maia, a daughter of Atlas, and his father was Zeus, the king of the gods. When Hermes was born, he immediately showed his cleverness by escaping from his cradle and stealing Apollo’s cattle.
Hermes was not content with just being a thief. He wanted to be more than that.
He wanted to be a messenger of the gods. So he invented the lyre by stretching strings across a tortoise shell and played it for Apollo, who was so impressed that he traded Hermes for his cattle.
With his new status as a messenger of the gods, Hermes became known for his speed and cunning. He wore winged sandals that allowed him to fly through the air and deliver messages quickly. He also had a staff called a caduceus that could calm disputes between mortals and protect travelers.
But Hermes wasn’t just a messenger for the gods. He was also a protector of thieves and merchants. He was seen as a patron of commerce and trade, which made him popular among mortals.
Hermes’ creation story is not just about how he came to be but also about what he represents. He embodies cleverness, speed, protection, communication, commerce, and travel.
In conclusion, Hermes’ creation story is one filled with ingenuity and cunningness. His birth from Maia on Mount Cyllene set him on a path towards greatness as he went from being just another baby to becoming one of the most important figures in Greek mythology. With his quick wit and helpful nature towards mortals, it’s no surprise that Hermes was worshipped and admired by many.