What Was Hermes Original Name?

Have you ever wondered about the original name of the Greek god Hermes? If so, you’re in luck because we’re going to dive into the history of this fascinating deity and uncover his true identity.

The Origins of Hermes

Hermes is one of the twelve Olympian gods in Greek mythology. He is known as the god of commerce, thieves, travelers, and sports. But before he became known as Hermes, he was called by a different name.

The Birth of Hermes

According to Greek mythology, Zeus had an affair with a nymph named Maia. Maia gave birth to a boy who would later become known as Hermes. It’s said that Hermes was born in a cave on Mount Cyllene in Arcadia.

The Original Name of Hermes

Before he was known as Hermes, he was called by the name “Argeiphontes”. This name translates to “the slayer of Argus” – which refers to his role in killing Argus, a many-eyed giant who guarded a white heifer that Zeus desired.

The Transformation into Hermes

After slaying Argus and completing other tasks for Zeus, Argeiphontes was rewarded by being granted immortality and becoming one of the twelve Olympian gods. He then took on his more well-known name: Hermes.

The Meaning Behind “Hermes”

The name “Hermes” means “messenger” in Greek. This is fitting since he was often depicted as carrying messages or delivering goods between the gods and mortals.

Conclusion

So there you have it – before he was known as Hermes, this Greek god went by the name Argeiphontes. It’s fascinating to see how his identity evolved over time and how his name came to reflect his role as a messenger for the gods. Next time you see an image of Hermes, you can impress your friends with this trivia about his original name.