Have you ever wondered why the Apostle Paul was referred to as Hermes by some people in the ancient world? This may seem like an odd question, but it’s one that has puzzled scholars for centuries. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating history behind this curious nickname.
The Story Behind Paul’s Nickname
To understand why Paul was called Hermes, we need to explore the cultural context of his time. Hermes was a Greek god who was known as the messenger of the gods. He was also associated with eloquence and communication, which are traits that were highly valued in ancient Greece and Rome.
When Paul arrived in Lystra during his second missionary journey, he healed a man who had been crippled from birth. The people of Lystra were amazed by this miracle and began to worship Paul and his companion Barnabas as gods. In particular, they believed that Paul was Hermes because he was the chief speaker among them.
The Reaction of Paul and Barnabas
When Paul and Barnabas realized what was happening, they were horrified. They tore their clothes and rushed into the crowd, shouting:
“Men, why are you doing these things? We too are only men, human like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them.” (Acts 14:15)
Paul’s response shows that he understood how dangerous it could be to be mistaken for a god. In ancient times, many people believed that if they offended a god or goddess, they could face dire consequences.
The Significance of Hermes
So why did the people of Lystra specifically identify Paul with Hermes? There are several possible reasons for this.
Firstly, as mentioned earlier, Hermes was associated with communication and eloquence. Since Paul was known for his preaching and teaching abilities, it’s possible that the people of Lystra saw him as embodying these qualities.
Secondly, Hermes was also associated with healing. In ancient Greek mythology, Hermes was believed to have the power to heal both physical and spiritual ailments. Since Paul had just healed a man who had been crippled from birth, it’s possible that the people of Lystra saw him as possessing this same power.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the reason why Paul was called Hermes is a fascinating historical mystery. While we may never know for sure why the people of Lystra made this association, we can gain valuable insights into the cultural context of ancient Greece and Rome by exploring this question further. Ultimately, however, what matters most is not what Paul was called, but what he stood for: a messenger of the living God who brought good news to all who would listen.