Hermes, the Greek god of commerce, communication, and travelers, is one of the most revered gods in Greek mythology. He is known for his cunning and cleverness, which he uses to help people in their journeys.
Hermes is considered a protector of travelers, merchants, and thieves. But have you ever wondered what is sacred to Hermes? In this article, we will explore the answer to this question.
The Symbols of Hermes
As a god of many trades, Hermes has several symbols that are sacred to him. One of the most famous symbols associated with him is his winged sandals.
These sandals enabled him to move swiftly from one place to another. Another symbol associated with him is his winged helmet that gave him the power of flight.
In addition to his footwear and headgear, Hermes also had a magical wand called caduceus. The wand was depicted as a staff with two entwined snakes at the top and wings on either side. The caduceus was believed to have healing powers and was also used as a symbol of peace.
The Sacred Animals of Hermes
Apart from his symbols, certain animals were considered sacred to Hermes. One such animal was the ram or lamb. In some depictions, he could be seen holding a ram or a lamb in his arms or carrying it on his back.
Another animal associated with Hermes was the tortoise. According to legend, he invented the lyre by using a tortoise shell as its base.
Offerings to Hermes
In ancient Greece, people made offerings to gods as a sign of respect and devotion. Similarly, offerings were made to Hermes as well. As he was considered the god of merchants and commerce, people would offer him coins or other items related to trade such as wool or olive oil.
In addition to these offerings, people would also offer food items such as honey and grapes. It was believed that Hermes had a sweet tooth and enjoyed eating sweets.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hermes is a god with many symbols and sacred animals associated with him. His symbols, such as his winged sandals and helmet, represent his power of speed and flight.
The caduceus represents his power of healing and peace. The ram or lamb and the tortoise are considered sacred animals to him. Lastly, people would make offerings of coins, wool, olive oil, honey, and grapes to show their devotion towards him.
Understanding what is sacred to Hermes gives us an insight into his character and role in Greek mythology. It also highlights the importance of making offerings as a sign of respect and devotion towards gods in ancient Greece.