THE CADUCEUS: MEANINGS, USES AND IMPACT
Sergiu BALACCI, Ion BALAN, Universitatea de Stat din Moldova
Abstract
The caduceus, a mythological symbol with roots in Greek and Roman mythology, is associated with Hermes/Mercury, the messenger god and patron of commerce and travelers. It represents balance, communication
between worlds, and protection, consisting of a staff around which two snakes are entwined, symbolizing the
duality and harmony of opposing forces in the universe. From its origins in mythology and religion, the caduceus was adopted in ancient medicine, becoming a symbol of healing and the medical professions. Today, the
caduceus remains relevant in fields such as contemporary medicine, commerce, and international law, symbolizing authority, protection, and harmony. The article explores the evolution of this symbol and how it has been
perceived over time, highlighting its ongoing impact, especially in the digital and social media context, and its
significance in modern societies.
Keywords: caduceus, symbol, mythology, science, confusion.
