Hermes is a prominent figure in Greek mythology and has been worshipped as a deity for centuries. He is known as the messenger of the gods, and is associated with a wide range of things, from commerce to travel to thieves. In this article, we will explore what Hermes is the deity of.
Who Is Hermes?
Before we delve into what Hermes is the deity of, let’s take a moment to understand who he was. According to Greek mythology, Hermes was the son of Zeus and Maia, a nymph.
He was born in a cave on Mount Cyllene in Arcadia, and from an early age showed great intelligence and cunning. As he grew older, he became known for his ability to move quickly and easily between different worlds – both literal and figurative. This made him an ideal messenger for the gods.
The Deity of Commerce
One of Hermes’ most significant roles was as the god of commerce. In ancient Greece, merchants would often pray to Hermes for good fortune in their business dealings. He was also seen as a patron of traders, especially those who travelled long distances by sea or land.
The Deity of Thieves
Another aspect of Hermes’ character that may seem surprising today is his association with thieves. In ancient Greece, theft was not necessarily seen as a bad thing – it was often viewed as smart or cunning behavior. As such, Hermes became known as the patron god of thieves.
The Deity of Travelers
Hermes was also revered by travelers – especially those undertaking long journeys across difficult terrain or through dangerous lands. It’s easy to see why – with his ability to move quickly between different worlds, he would be an ideal protector for those on the road.
The Deity of Athletics
Hermes was also associated with athletics, specifically the ancient Greek sport of running. In fact, the word “hermeneutics” (the study of interpretation) comes from the Greek word “herm,” which means “a pile of stones at a crossroads.” These piles of stones were often used as markers for runners in races, and were said to have been created by Hermes himself.
The Deity of Communication
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, Hermes was the messenger of the gods. He was responsible for carrying messages between the different gods and goddesses on Mount Olympus. This made him an important figure in ancient Greek religion – without him, there would be no way for the gods to communicate with one another.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hermes was a complex character with a wide range of responsibilities. He represented everything from commerce to thieves to athletics to communication. It’s easy to see why he was such an important figure in ancient Greek religion – his abilities were truly awe-inspiring.