Hesiod the poet attempted to list all the Gods and Goddesses and how they came to be. Modern scholars dismiss Hypnos' existence as an abstraction, though the historian Pausanius who documented life in ancient times found an altar to him.  

Legend describes Hypnos as brother of Thanatos (death) and that both live in the Underworld. Hypnos with his dark wings fans mortals to sleep, and even once caused the mighty Zeus to fall asleep.

Hypnos' is no abstract principle, and the insomniacs of the world would do well to realise this and remember him. 
    On first encounter there appeared a strange light of pale blue whirling around a darker blue and then he appeared. Hypnos is a regal figure who stands seven metres tall. He is a brown skinned God with black hair and dark eyes, altogether of Asian appearance. He wears a tunic, is bare legged and barefoot and wears a wide bangle around his right wrist studded with sparkling jewels - rubies, sapphires, emeralds and diamonds. 

Hypnos' voice is soft and whisper-like, so soothing it makes you want to fall asleep: "You welcome me. I am the mighty God Hypnos. I enter this temple bringing a soothing influence with me. Thank you for honouring me. Few did in the past. 
   I now have taken many temples, from huge cathedrals in Africa to a tiny wooden hut on an island in the Pacific; from the wastelands of Greenland to Australia I am influencing mortals. 
   I am one of the strongest Gods when it comes to influencing mortals' minds. Some react quickly, others more slowly; but in time all will come to know of me. Now I draw you into my light that you may gain serenity within your self."

Hypnos is among the most gentle of Gods, though chances are he can deliver nightmares just as easily as peaceful sleep. Rarely does he set tests, mostly he takes team-members into his light which instantly has a calming and soothing effect. On one occasion a team-member described it so: 'I felt I was part of his light, for a second I didn't seem to have a body at all, but this did not worry me in the least.'  

"I start your day with my soothing influence. Now return to your dimension. Everything in life has a purpose. I Hypnos give you my blessings and the gifts of refreshing untroubled sleep each night; the gift of my love and my gratitude for honouring us." 

Festival of Hypnos - May 14th