Chapter 3 Who Was Hermes?

Hermes is a multifaceted figure whose identity varies depending on cultural and historical contexts:

  1. In Greek Mythology: Hermes is known primarily as the messenger of the gods, the guide to the underworld, and the god of commerce, travelers, and thieves. He is often depicted with winged sandals and a caduceus (staff entwined with two snakes).

  2. Hermes Trismegistus: In later traditions, particularly within Hellenistic and early Christian thought, Hermes Trismegistus (“thrice-great Hermes”) emerged as a syncretic figure combining elements of the Greek Hermes and the Egyptian god Thoth. Hermes Trismegistus is credited with a body of esoteric writings known as the Hermetic texts, which cover topics such as alchemy, astrology, and theology.

3.1 “The Light of the World”

When Hermes proclaimed himself as “the Light of the World,” it can be interpreted in multiple ways:

  1. Bearer of Enlightenment: Hermes, especially in his Trismegistus persona, is seen as a bringer of knowledge and wisdom. Thus, “the Light of the World” suggests that he brought enlightenment to humanity, shedding light on hidden truths and deeper understanding.

  2. Illuminator of the Mind: This title can also be tied to the idea of intellectual illumination — bringing clarity, reason, and insight to the human mind. This aligns with philosophical and spiritual enlightenment, guiding people towards greater awareness and understanding, as well as Hermes ruling the bridging of the lower and higher mind.

3.2 Keirsey Model

In the context of the Keirsey temperament model and the hypothesized psychological determinants (Intelligence, Compassion, and Will), Hermes’ title as “the Light of the World” has a strong resonance with the concept of Intelligence:

  1. Light of Intelligence:
    • Knowledge and Wisdom: Hermes Trismegistus is often associated with profound intellectual and spiritual wisdom, aligning well with the determinant of Intelligence in the Keirsey model.
    • Cognitive Clarity: As the “Light of the World,” Hermes represents the illumination of the mind, enhancing cognitive processes and enabling deeper understanding—a primary characteristic of the Intelligence determinant.
  2. Primary Ray (Determinant Vector):
    • If we consider Intelligence as one of the primary rays or determinant vectors in the Keirsey model, Hermes’ role as the illuminator fits perfectly. His teachings and symbolism encapsulate the essence of intellectual clarity and enlightenment, guiding individuals towards higher reasoning and understanding.

Hermes, particularly in his guise as Hermes Trismegistus, symbolizes the profound light of knowledge and intellectual enlightenment. When he referred to himself as “the Light of the World,” it can be understood as a proclamation of his role in bringing wisdom and clarity to humanity. This correlates strongly with the determinant of Intelligence in the Keirsey model, positioning Hermes as an archetype of intellectual and spiritual illumination.