Mercury, the smallest planet in our solar system, is known for its blazing speed and proximity to the sun. But have you ever wondered why it’s called Mercury?
The answer lies in Greek mythology, where the planet was named after the messenger of the gods – Hermes. Let’s take a closer look at this fascinating connection.
The Myth of Hermes
In Greek mythology, Hermes was the son of Zeus and Maia, and he was known as the god of commerce, thieves, travelers, and athletes. He was also recognized as a messenger between mortals and gods. According to legend, Hermes was born in a cave on Mount Cyllene in Arcadia and showed his cunningness from an early age by stealing his half-brother Apollo’s cattle.
Hermes as a Messenger
Hermes’ role as a messenger made him one of the most important gods in Greek mythology. He was responsible for carrying messages between mortals and gods on his winged sandals. His speed made him an ideal courier for Zeus when he needed to send important messages or deliver punishments.
The Connection to Mercury
So how did this mythological figure come to be associated with a planet? The answer lies in ancient Rome.
The Romans believed that each day of the week was governed by one of their seven major deities. Wednesday was named after their god Mercury who they believed shared similar traits with Hermes – both were fast-moving messengers among other things.
When astronomers began naming planets in our solar system they looked to Roman mythology for inspiration. Thus Mercury became associated with Hermes due to their shared traits as messengers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mercury is called after Hermes due to its swift movement around the sun like that of Hermes himself who could travel from one end of Greece to another within minutes. This connection between mythology and astronomy highlights the importance of both science and culture in our understanding of the world around us.