Mercury's role as a God was one of incredible influence. He was to become the all important communicator amongst the Gods. It is Mercury whom we consider as the one God that could bring all the elements together. He was the patron of merchants, commerce, thieves, rogues and travelers. Mercury was also understood to be the God of Visions, Dreams and Invention. Mercury's temple was built in 495 BC, as a place of worship for the God of Travel and Commerce. His temple was also well known for its racetrack within. He has been recognized since ancient Sumerian times, some 5,000 years ago. Tthe Greeks knew him as Hermes.

It was believed that Mercury invented the lyre from a tortoise shell on the day he was born, and also stole Apollo's cattle before the day had ended. Because of this legend, he is often portrayed accompanied by a turtle or his lyre. Another legend claims Mercury gave Apollo his lyre as payment for the cattle, and Apollo gave him a magic wand entwined with two snakes and wings as a return gesture. It was believed he could turn things into gold with it, and that it assisted him with his messenger duties, as well as when he escorted the departed souls to Hades. He is often portrayed as a swift messenger, with winged feet and petasos whilst carrying the magic Herald's staff. The symbol of the staff is now used to represent the military medical corps and the medical profession in general.

Mercury was a favorite son of Jupiter and was also the son Jupiter asked to destroy monsters. However, Mercury's greatest gift of all was his ability to act as the mediator between the Gods. When it came time for negotiations, his influence was regarded as rational and fare. He brought peaceful resolutions to a world that had to learn that words and deeds could replace wars!

Just as the planet itself moves faster than any other in our solar system, Mercury came to be regarded as the swiftest messenger. His name is the word source associated with commercial activity, as in merchant, merchandise and market. Merciful is another, as is mercurial. Wednesdays were dedicated to Mercury, and considered to be a more favorable day to trade in commerce.