Introduction to Somnus
Somnus is the Roman god of sleep, equivalent to Hypnos in Greek mythology. He is the personification of sleep and a son of Nox (the night) and possibly Érèbe (darkness). He is often depicted as a peaceful and youthful figure, with wings on his shoulders or forehead, symbolizing his ability to move swiftly through the realm of dreams. He is also the twin brother of Mors (death), highlighting the closeness of sleep to death in mythology.
Correspondence Table for Somnus
| Planet | Neptune |
| Day | Monday |
| Number | 7 |
| Colors | Midnight blue, silver |
| Offerings | Poppy, milk, incense |
Symbol and Appearance of Somnus
Somnus is often depicted with an inverted torch symbolizing night and sleep. He is sometimes accompanied by a poppy horn, representing his power to soothe and induce sleep. The Romans feared him and often sought his favor for a peaceful night's rest. His sons, the Somnia, brought dreams and could appear in various forms within the subconscious of mortals.
Genealogy of Somnus
Somnus is the son of Nox (the night), and brother of Mors (death). He has several sons, including Morpheus, the god of dreams, who appears in dreams in human form, as well as Icelos (or Phobetor) and Phantasos, who manifest respectively as animals and inanimate objects in dreams.
