Hermes is a well-known figure from Greek mythology, revered as the messenger of the gods. He was also known for his cunning and wit, often depicted with a winged helmet and sandals, carrying a staff or caduceus.
However, he was not just known for his appearance; Hermes was also associated with an instrument that helped him deliver his messages. In this article, we will explore what exactly Hermes’ instrument was.
The Caduceus
The caduceus is the symbol most commonly associated with Hermes. It is a staff or wand that is entwined by two serpents and topped with wings. The caduceus has been used as a symbol of commerce and negotiation throughout history, but it originally belonged to Hermes.
The origins of the caduceus are not entirely clear, but it is said to have been created by Hermes himself. According to Greek mythology, one day while walking in the woods, Hermes came across two snakes fighting each other.
He intervened and separated them by placing his staff between them. The snakes then wrapped themselves around the staff and became entwined.
Uses of the Caduceus
The caduceus had several uses in Greek mythology. As mentioned earlier, it was primarily used by Hermes to deliver messages between the gods. It was believed that anyone who saw the caduceus knew that they were receiving a message from Hermes himself.
In addition to delivering messages, the caduceus was also used as a symbol of protection. It was believed that anyone who carried a caduceus would be protected from harm.
The caduceus was also associated with medicine in ancient Greece. This association can be traced back to the god Asclepius, who was known for his healing abilities.
Asclepius’ symbol was a rod with a single serpent wrapped around it – similar in appearance to the caduceus. Over time, the two symbols became intertwined, and the caduceus became a symbol of medicine as well.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hermes’ instrument was the caduceus – a staff or wand entwined by two serpents and topped with wings. The caduceus was primarily used by Hermes to deliver messages between the gods, but it also had other uses such as protection and as a symbol of medicine. Today, the caduceus is still a widely recognized symbol, often used in the medical profession.