What is Mercury’s Greek name?

In Greek mythology, Hermes is the equivalent of the Roman god Mercury. Son of Zeus and the nymph Maia, he is primarily known as the messenger of the gods, but his role goes far beyond that. He embodies speed, intelligence and cunning, and protects travelers, merchants, thieves and orators.

The link between Hermes and Mercury was established when the Romans assimilated the Greek gods to their own deities. Because of their similar attributes, they identified Mercury, god of commerce and trade, with Hermes, who already possessed these characteristics in Greek mythology.

Hermes is often depicted with wings on his feet or helmet, illustrating his speed and ability to move between worlds. He carries a caduceus, a staff with two snakes wrapped around it, a symbol now associated with medicine. This association stems from the fact that Hermes guided the souls of the deceased to the world of the dead, reinforcing his image as a ferryman between worlds.

He is also known for stealing Apollo’s oxen when he was very young, but thanks to his ingenuity, he managed to appease the solar god’s anger by giving him a lyre, an instrument he invented himself from a tortoise shell. This myth illustrates his astute mind and talent for negotiation.

As well as being the messenger of the gods, Hermes was also the protector of merchants and trade. Greek merchants invoked his name to ensure the prosperity of their businesses, and travelers placed statues in his likeness, called hermaï, along the roads to solicit his protection.

His cunning and intelligence also made him the god of thieves, as he was able to deceive and manipulate the other gods without ever being punished.

When the Romans adopted Greek mythology, they associated Hermes with Mercury, a deity originally associated primarily with commerce and financial gain. Mercury’s name comes from the Latin merx, meaning merchandise, which directly relates to his role as protector of commerce.

Over time, the Romans incorporated the attributes of Hermes into their vision of Mercury, making him a fast, intelligent and versatile god, playing an essential role in communication between gods and men.

Even today, Hermes/Mercury’s influence can be felt in many fields. His caduceus is used as a symbol of the medical profession, although it is often confused with the staff of Asclepius, the true god of medicine.

His image is also used in commerce and communication, recalling his role as an intermediary and facilitator of exchanges.

Mercury’s Greek name is Hermes, a versatile and mischievous deity, at once messenger of the gods, protector of travelers and merchants, guide of souls and god of thieves. His influence has spanned the ages, from ancient Greece to imperial Rome, and his legacy lives on in modern culture, symbols and representations.

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