Hermes, the Greek god of commerce, thieves, travelers, and athletes, is one of the most popular gods in Greek mythology. He is known for his cunning personality and quick movements.
However, along with his fame comes several myths and misconceptions that have been associated with him over the years. In this article, we will debunk some of these popular myths.
The Myth of Hermes Being a Thief
One of the most common myths related to Hermes is that he was a thief. While it is true that Hermes was associated with cunning and trickery, he was not a burglar or a robber.
In Greek mythology, Hermes was known for his ability to move swiftly from one place to another. This made him an ideal messenger for the gods who needed to send messages across great distances quickly.
Theft of Apollo’s Cows
However, there is one instance where Hermes did steal something – Apollo’s cows. According to Greek mythology, as a newborn baby, Hermes snuck out of his crib and stole some cows belonging to Apollo. He did so by making shoes for the cows that would make them walk backward so as not to leave any tracks behind.
Fun Fact: This story is often cited as an example of how clever and mischievous Hermes can be.
The Myth of Hermes Being a God of Deception
Another myth related to Hermes is that he was a god of deception. While it is true that he was known for his cunning personality, this does not mean that he was deceitful or dishonest. In fact, in Greek mythology, Hermes was considered a god who protected travelers and merchants from being deceived by others.
Hermes’ Role as Psychopomp
Moreover, in addition to being a messenger god who delivered messages from the gods to mortals and vice versa, Hermes was also considered a psychopomp. This means that he was responsible for guiding the souls of the deceased to the underworld. His role as a psychopomp highlights his importance as a protector and guide, rather than just being a god of deceit.
The Myth of Hermes Being a God of Only Thieves
A common misconception about Hermes is that he was only associated with thieves. While it is true that he was known for his association with thieves, this does not mean that he only protected or worked with them.
Hermes’ Role in Commerce
In fact, one of Hermes’ primary roles was to protect commerce and merchants. He was considered the patron god of merchants and traders who would pray to him for good fortune in their business dealings. In addition to this, Hermes was also associated with athletes and travelers, highlighting his broader role in Greek society beyond just thievery.
- Fun Fact: The symbol of Hermes, the caduceus (a staff with two snakes coiled around it), is still used today as a symbol of commerce.
The Myth of Hermes Being a Minor God
Finally, there is a myth that Hermes was a minor god in Greek mythology. While it is true that he was not one of the twelve Olympian gods, this does not mean that he was insignificant or unimportant.
Hermes’ Importance in Greek Mythology
In fact, Hermes played an important role in many Greek myths and legends. He was often called upon by the other gods to perform important tasks such as delivering messages or guiding souls to the underworld. His quick wit and agility also made him an important ally when it came to outsmarting enemies or solving complex problems.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while there are many myths and misconceptions associated with Hermes, it is important to separate fact from fiction. Hermes was not just a god of thieves and deception, but also a protector of commerce, athletes, and travelers. He played an important role in Greek mythology and continues to be an important symbol in modern culture.