God Of Medicine

A common misconception of the Caduceus as the symbol of medicine, instead of the staff of Asclepius, has entwined itself into minds of many.

The caduceus is the staff of Greek God Hermes. It is winged with two serpents coiling around it. It represents Hermes (or the Roman Mercury), the messenger of the gods, guide of the dead and protector of merchants, shepherds, gamblers, liars, and thieves.

By extension, the Caduceus is also a recognized symbol of commerce and negotiation, two realms in which balanced exchange and reciprocity are recognized as ideals.

“The myths around this staff are many but none point towards medicine.”

                            The true symbol of medicine – Staff of Asclepius

Asclepius is the deity associated with healing and medicinal arts in Greek mythology. He is the son of Apollo, the physician. He became so proficient in healing that he surpassed his father and was believed to be able to evade death and to bring others back to life from the brink of death and beyond.

In Greek mythology snakes were considered sacred. There are many theories for the why the snake is part of the symbol.

“The snake that’s wrapped around the rod may symbolize rejuvenation, because snakes shed their skin, or it could simply represent the healing of snakebites.” The staff too has many interpretations. 

                                                              Story Of Asclepius

                                                   Zeus kills Asclepius (God beats a God)