Who Is Hermes the Goddess Of?

Hermes, the Greek god of commerce, thieves, travelers, sports, and athletes, is also known as the messenger of the gods. He is one of the twelve Olympian gods and goddesses in Greek mythology. Hermes was born to Zeus and Maia, a daughter of Atlas and one of the seven Pleiades.

The Symbolism behind Hermes

Hermes is often depicted wearing a winged hat and sandals as well as carrying a caduceus (a staff with two snakes wrapped around it). These symbols represent his role as the messenger of the gods and his ability to travel quickly between different worlds. The caduceus also symbolizes his role as a protector of merchants and travelers.

Hermes’ Role in Mythology

Hermes’ responsibilities were vast – he was responsible for guiding souls to the underworld, protecting merchants from thieves, delivering messages from the gods, and even helping with childbirth. He was also known for his cunning intelligence which he often used to trick others.

Hermes: The God of Commerce

Hermes was revered by merchants as he was considered their patron deity. The god’s association with commerce can be traced back to ancient times when traders would pray to him for safe voyages across seas or over land.

Hermes: The God of Thieves

In addition to being revered by merchants, Hermes was also associated with thieves. This is because he was seen as an expert thief himself due to his ability to sneak around unnoticed. Despite this association with thievery, Hermes was not considered malicious or evil but rather mischievous.

Hermes: The God of Travelers

As mentioned earlier, Hermes was responsible for assisting travelers in their journeys. This included guiding them through unfamiliar territories or providing them with safe passage.

Hermes: The God of Sports and Athletes

Hermes was also associated with sports and athleticism. He was seen as a patron of athletes and was often called upon to bless competitions or offer guidance to aspiring athletes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hermes’ role in Greek mythology is multifaceted. He represents a diverse range of attributes, from commerce to thievery, travel, sports, and even childbirth.

The god’s quick wit and intelligence helped him navigate the complex world of the gods while his compassion for mortals made him an important figure in ancient Greek culture. With his winged sandals and caduceus, Hermes remains one of the most recognizable figures in Greek mythology.