Hypnos facts for kids
Hypnos is the god of sleep in Greek mythology. He is a very important figure because sleep is something everyone needs! He is the son of Nyx, who is the goddess of night. Hypnos has a twin brother named Thanatos, who is the god of death.
Hypnos is often shown as a kind and gentle young man. He usually has wings on his head or shoulders, which helps him move quickly and quietly. In Roman mythology, his equivalent (the same god but with a different name) was called Somnus.
Hypnos's Family
Hypnos has several sons, who are known as the Oneiroi. These are the gods of dreams! Each of his sons is responsible for different kinds of dreams:
- Morpheus is the god who brings dreams about people. He can appear in dreams as human figures.
- Phobetor (also called Icelus) brings dreams about animals or scary things.
- Phantasos creates dreams about objects and strange, unreal things.
Hypnos in Myths
Hypnos often helped other gods in their plans, especially his mother Nyx. He could make anyone fall asleep, even the mighty god Zeus.
One famous story involves the goddess Hera. She asked Hypnos to make Zeus fall asleep so she could do something without him noticing. Hypnos was hesitant at first because Zeus was very powerful. But Hera promised him a beautiful wife, Pasithea, one of the Graces. Hypnos agreed and put Zeus into a deep sleep. This shows how powerful Hypnos was, as he could even affect the king of the gods!
Symbols of Hypnos
Hypnos is often shown with several symbols related to sleep and dreams:
- A poppy flower, which is known for its sleep-inducing qualities.
- A branch dripping with water from the river Lethe, the river of forgetfulness in the underworld.
- A horn filled with sleep-inducing liquid.
These symbols help us understand his role as the god who brings rest and dreams to the world.
