What Level Bureaucrat Was Hermes?

Hermes is one of the most iconic Greek gods, known for his speed, cunning, and wit. As the messenger of the gods, Hermes was responsible for delivering important messages and guiding souls to the afterlife.

But what level bureaucrat was Hermes? In this article, we’ll explore the role of Hermes in ancient Greek bureaucracy and shed some light on his position within the divine hierarchy.

The Divine Bureaucracy

In ancient Greece, bureaucracy was an essential part of daily life. The government was run by a complex system of officials who were responsible for various tasks such as collecting taxes, maintaining records, and enforcing laws. The divine realm also had its own bureaucracy, with each god having a specific role to play.

The Role of Hermes

Hermes was a multifaceted god with many responsibilities. He was known as the messenger of the gods and was responsible for delivering important messages between them. He was also the patron god of travelers, thieves, and merchants.

However, Hermes’ role in ancient Greek bureaucracy extended beyond just these tasks. As one of the twelve Olympian gods, he held a high position within the divine hierarchy. He was considered to be one of Zeus’ most trusted advisors and often acted as an intermediary between Zeus and other gods.

Hermes’ Administrative Responsibilities

In addition to his more well-known roles, Hermes also had administrative responsibilities within the divine realm. He served as the protector of herds and flocks and oversaw matters related to animal husbandry. He also presided over commerce and trade and had jurisdiction over matters related to contracts and agreements.

Conclusion

So what level bureaucrat was Hermes? While he wasn’t exactly a mid-level manager or chief executive officer in modern terms, he held an important position within ancient Greek bureaucracy.

As a trusted advisor to Zeus and a god with a diverse range of responsibilities, Hermes played an essential role in the functioning of the divine realm. Through his quick wit and cunning, he ensured that important messages were delivered, travelers were protected, and commerce was conducted fairly.