Introduction to Mercury
Mercury is the Roman god of commerce, travel, and thieves, and the messenger of the gods. He is often depicted with winged sandals, a winged hat, and the caduceus, a staff with two intertwined snakes. Mercury is the Roman equivalent of Hermes in Greek mythology and shares many characteristics with him, including his role as a mediator between gods and mortals, as well as a guide of souls to the Underworld. He is also known for his playful and cunning nature, sometimes playing tricks on the gods.
Correspondence Table for Mercury
| Planet | Mercury |
| Day | Wednesday |
| Number | 5 |
| Colors | Yellow, green |
| Sacred places | Temple of Mercury in Rome, crossroads |
| Offerings | Incense, coins, fruits |
Symbol and Appearance of Mercury
Mercury is frequently depicted as an athletic young man wearing winged sandals and a caduceus. These attributes symbolize speed and his role as a messenger. He is also often associated with the rooster, representing dawn and new beginnings, as well as the turtle, referring to his invention of the lyre from a turtle shell.
Genealogy of Mercury
Mercury is the son of Jupiter and Maia, a mountain nymph. He has several divine half-brothers and sisters, including Mars, Apollo, Diana, Vulcan, and Minerva. He is also the father of the Lares, protective deities of homes and roads, with the nymph Larunda. He also had a relationship with Venus, giving birth to Hermaphroditus, a famous androgynous figure in mythology.
