All Prayers

The complete list of the collection's prayers, hymns, vows and inscriptions — from the Homeric hymns of the seventh century BC to votive inscriptions from the Roman provinces. Every text carries the original in Greek or Latin, a translation, an exact reference to the edition, and a commentary.

1. 001

   Hymn to Zeus

   CLEANTHES · HYMN TO ZEUS

   Most glorious of the immortals, many-named, forever almighty, Zeus, first author of nature, steering all things by law —

   Greek · literary

   Zeus

   PraiseInvocationPetition
   3rd c. BC

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2. 002

   Lead me, O Zeus

   CLEANTHES (PRESERVED BY EPICTETUS) · ENCHIRIDION · 53

   Lead me, O Zeus, and you too, Destiny, wherever I have been assigned by you;

   Greek · personal

   Zeus, the Moirai

   InvocationDedication
   3rd c. BC

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3. 003

   Second Hymn to Telesphorus

   ANONYMOUS (INSCRIPTION FROM ATHENS) · INSCRIPTIONES GRAECAE II³ 4, 939 · ll. 30-42

   Hail then to me, O healer, O greatly honoured one, play, Telesphoros, play, hail — and you with your

   Greek · ritual

   Telesphorus, Asclepius

   PraiseInvocation
   2nd-3rd c. AD

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4. 004

   Prayer to Demeter

   CALLIMACHUS · HYMNS · 6.1-21; 117-138

   As the Basket comes, greet it, ye women, saying 'Demeter, greatly hail! Lady of much bounty, of many measures of corn.' As the Basket comes, from the ground shall ye behold it, ye uninitiated, and gaze not from the roof or from aloft — child nor wife nor maid hath shed her hair — neither then nor when we spit from parched mouths fasting. Hesperos from the clouds marks the time of its coming: Hesperos, who alone persuaded Demeter to drink, what time she pursued the unknown tracks of her stolen daughter. Lady, how were thy feet able to carry thee unto the West, unto the Melanoi and where the golden apples are? Thou didst not drink nor didst thou eat during that time nor didst thou wash. Thrice didst thou cross Akheloios with his silver eddies, and as often didst thou pass over each of the ever-flowing rivers, and thrice didst thou seat thee on the ground beside the fountain Kallikhoros, parched and without drinking, and didst not eat nor wash. Nay, nay, let us not speak of that which brought the tear to Deo! Better to tell how she gave cities pleasing ordinances; better to tell how she was the first to cut straw and holy sheaves of corn-ears and put in oxen to tread them, what time Triptolemos was taught the good craft... O Demeter, never may that man be my friend who is hateful to thee, nor ever may he share party-wall with me; ill neighbours I abhor. Sing, ye maidens, and ye mothers, say with them: 'Damater, greatly hail! Lady of much bounty, of many measures of corn.' And as the four white-haired horses convey the Basket, so unto us will the great goddess of wide dominion come bringing white spring and white harvest and winter and autumn, and keep us to another year. And as unsandalled and with hair unbound we walk the city, so shall we have foot and head unharmed for ever. And as the van-bearers bear vans full of gold, so may we get gold unstinted. Far as the City Chambers let the uninitiated follow, but the initiated even unto the very shrine of the goddess — as many as are under sixty years. But she that is heavy and she that stretches her hand to Eileithyia and she that is in pain — sufficient it is that they go so far as their knees are able. And to them Deo shall give all things to overflowing, even as if they came unto her temple. Hail, goddess, and save this people in harmony and in prosperity, and in the fields bring us all pleasant things! Feed our kine, bring us flocks, bring us the corn-ear, bring us harvest! And nurse peace, that he who sows may also reap. Be gracious, O thrice-prayed for, great Queen of goddesses!

   Greek · hymn

   Demeter, Persephone, Eileithyia

   InvocationPetition
   3rd c. BC

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5. 005

   Hymn to Aphrodite

   ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 6

   I will sing of stately Aphrodite, gold-crowned and beautiful, whose dominion is the walled cities of all sea-set Kypros. There the moist breath of Zephyros the western wind wafted her over the waves of the loud-moaning sea in soft foam, and there the gold-filleted Horai welcomed her joyously... Hail, sweetly-winning, coy-eyed goddess! Grant that I may gain the victory in this contest, and order you my song. And now I will remember you and another song also.

   Greek · hymn

   Aphrodite, Zephyrus, the Horae

   InvocationPetition
   archaic Greek (7th-4th c. BC)

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6. 006

   Hymn to Demeter

   ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 2

   I begin to sing of rich-haired Demeter reverend goddess — of her and her trim-ankled daughter whom Aidoneus rapt away... Right blessed is he among men on earth whom they freely love: soon they do send Ploutos as guest to his great house, Ploutos who gives wealth to mortal men. And now, queen of the land of sweet Eleusis and sea-girt Paros and rocky Antron, queen, giver of good gifts, bringer of seasons, lady Deo, be gracious, you and your daughter all beauteous Persephone, and for my song grant me heart-cheering substance.

   Greek · hymn

   Demeter, Persephone, Plutus

   InvocationPetition
   archaic Greek (7th-6th c. BC)

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7. 007

   Hymn to Dionysus

   ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 26

   I begin to sing of Dionysos ivy-crowned, the loud-crying, splendid son of Zeus and glorious Semele. The rich-haired Nymphai received him in their bosoms from the lord his father and fostered and nurtured him carefully in the dells of Nysa, where by the will of his father he grew up in a sweet-smelling cave, being reckoned among the immortals. But when the goddesses had brought him up, a god oft hymned, then began he to wander continually through the woody coombes, thickly wreathed with ivy and laurel. And the Nymphai followed in his train with him for their leader; and the boundless forest was filled with their outcry. And so hail to you, Dionysos god of abundant clusters! Grant that we may come again rejoicing to this season, and from that season onwards for many a year.

   Greek · hymn

   Dionysus, Semele, the Nymphs

   InvocationPetition
   archaic Greek (7th-4th c. BC)

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8. 008

   Hymn to Hephaestus and Athena

   ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 20

   Sing, clear-voiced Mousa, of Hephaistos famed for inventions. With bright-eyed Athene he taught men glorious crafts throughout the world — men who before used to dwell in caves in the mountains like wild beasts. But now that they have learned crafts through Hephaistos the famed worker, easily they live a peaceful life in their own houses the whole year round. Be gracious, Hephaistos, and grant me success and prosperity!

   Greek · hymn

   Hephaestus, Athena

   InvocationPetition
   archaic Greek (7th-4th c. BC)

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9. 009

   Hymn to Hestia

   ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 29

   Hestia, in the high dwellings of all... you have gained an everlasting abode and highest honour: glorious is your portion and your right. For without you mortals hold no banquet... And you, Argeiphontes, Son of Zeus and Maia, messenger of the blessed gods, bearer of the golden rod, giver of good, be favourable and help us, you and Hestia, the worshipful and dear. Come and dwell in this glorious house in friendship together; for you two, well knowing the noble actions of men, aid on their wisdom and their strength. Hail, Daughter of Kronos, and you also, Hermes Khrysorrapis! Now I will remember you and another song also.

   Greek · hymn

   Hestia, Hermes, Zeus, Maia, Cronus

   InvocationPetition
   archaic Greek (7th-4th c. BC)

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10. 010

    Hymn to Poseidon

    ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 22

    I begin to sing about Poseidon, the great god, mover of the earth and fruitless sea, god of the deep who is also lord of Helikon and wide Aigai. O Shaker of the Earth, to be a tamer of horses and a saviour of ships! Hail Poseidon Holder of the Earth, dark-haired lord! O blessed one, be kindly in heart and help those who voyage in ships!

    Greek · hymn

    Poseidon

    InvocationPetition
    archaic Greek (7th-6th c. BC)

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11. 011

    Hymn to Aphrodite

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 55

    Ourania, illustrious, laughter-loving queen, sea-born, night-loving, of awful mien; crafty, from whom Ananke first came, producing, nightly, all-connecting dame. 'Tis thine the world with harmony to join, for all things spring from thee, O power divine. The triple Moirai are ruled by thy decree, and all productions yield alike to thee: whatever the heavens, encircling all, contain, earth fruit-producing, and the stormy main, thy sway confesses, and obeys thy nod, awful attendant of Bakkhos God. Goddess of marriage, charming to the sight, mother of the Erotes, whom banquetings delight; source of Peitho, secret, favouring queen, illustrious born, apparent and unseen; spousal Lukaina, and to men inclined, prolific, most-desired, life-giving, kind. Great sceptre-bearer of the Gods, 'tis thine mortals in necessary bands to join; and every tribe of savage monsters dire in magic chains to bind through mad desire. Come, Kyprogenes, and to my prayer incline, whether exalted in the heavens you shine, or pleased in odorous Syria to preside, or over the Aigyptian plains thy care to guide, fashioned of gold; and near its sacred flood, fertile and famed, to fix thy blest abode; or if rejoicing in the azure shores, near where the sea with foaming billows roars, the circling choirs of mortals thy delight, or beauteous Nymphai with eyes cerulean bright, pleased by the sandy banks renowned of old, to drive thy rapid two-yoked car of gold; or if in Kypros thy famed mother fair, where Nymphai unmarried praise thee every year, the loveliest Nymphai, who in the chorus join, Adonis pure to sing, and thee divine. Come, all-attractive, to my prayer inclined, for thee I call, with holy, reverent mind.

    Greek · hymn

    Aphrodite, Eros, Peitho, Adonis, the Moirai, Ananke, the Nymphs

    InvocationPetition
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

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12. 012

    Hymn to Demeter of Eleusis

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 40

    O universal mother, Deo famed, august, the source of wealth, and various named: great nurse, all-bounteous, blessed and divine, who joyest in peace; to nourish corn is thine. Goddess of seed, of fruits abundant, fair, harvest and threshing are thy constant care. Lovely delightful queen, by all desired, who dwellest in Eleusis' holy vales retired. Nurse of all mortals, who benignant mind first ploughing oxen to the yoke confined; and gave to men what nature's wants require, with plenteous means of bliss, which all desire. In verdure flourishing, in glory bright, assessor of great Bromios bearing light: rejoicing in the reapers' sickles, kind, whose nature lucid, earthly, pure, we find. Prolific, venerable, nurse divine, thy daughter loving, holy Koure. A car with Drakones yoked 'tis thine to guide, and, orgies singing, round thy throne to ride. Only-begotten, much-producing queen, all flowers are thine, and fruits of lovely green. Bright Goddess, come, with summer's rich increase swelling and pregnant, leading smiling peace; come with fair concord and imperial health, and join with these a needful store of wealth.

    Greek · hymn

    Demeter, Persephone, Dionysus

    InvocationPetition
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

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13. 013

    Hymn to Dionysus and Persephone

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 30

    Dionysos I call loud-sounding and divine, inspiring God, a twofold shape is thine: thy various names and attributes I sing, O firstborn, thrice begotten, Bakkheion king. Rural, ineffable, two-formed, obscure, two-horned, with ivy crowned, and Euion pure: bull-faced and martial, bearer of the vine, endued with counsel prudent and divine: Eubouleos, whom the leaves of vines adorn, of Zeus and Persephoneia occultly born in beds ineffable; all-blessed power, whom with triennial offerings men adore. Immortal Daimon, hear my suppliant voice, give me in blameless plenty to rejoice; and listen gracious to my mystic prayer surrounded with thy choir of nurses fair.

    Greek · hymn

    Dionysus, Persephone

    InvocationPetition
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

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14. 014

    Hymn to Chthonic Hermes

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 57

    Hermes, I call, whom fate decrees to dwell near to Kokytos, the famed stream of Haides, and in necessity's dread path, whose bourn to none that reach it ever permits return. O Bakkheios Hermes, progeny divine of Dionysos, parent of the vine, and of celestial Aphrodite, Paphian queen, dark-eyelashed Goddess, of a lovely mien: who constant wanderest through the sacred seats where Haides' dread empress, Persephone, retreats; to wretched souls the leader of the way, when fate decrees, to regions void of day. Thine is the wand which causes sleep to fly, or lulls to slumberous rest the weary eye; for Persephone, through Tartaros dark and wide, gave thee for ever flowing souls to guide. Come, blessed power, the sacrifice attend, and grant thy mystics' works a happy end.

    Greek · hymn

    Hermes, Persephone, Dionysus, Aphrodite

    InvocationPetition
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

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15. 015

    Prayer to the Charites

    PINDAR · OLYMPIAN ODES · 14.1 ff

    Whose haunts are by Kephissos' river, you queens beloved of poets' song, ruling Orkhomenos, that sunlit city and land of lovely steeds, watch and ward of the ancient Minyan race, hear now my prayer, you Kharites three. For in your gift are all our mortal joys, and every sweet thing, be it wisdom, beauty, or glory, that makes rich the soul of man. Nor even can the immortal gods order at their behest the dance and festals, lacking the Kharites' aid; who are the steward of all rites of heaven, whose thrones are set at Pytho beside Apollon of the golden bow, and who with everlasting honour worship the Father, lord of great Olympos. Euphrosyne, lover of song, and Aglaia revered, daughters of Zeus the all-highest, hearken, and with Thalia, darling of harmony, look on our songs of revel, on light feet stepping to grace this happy hour... I come to praise Asopikhos, whose Minyan house, Thalia, now of your favour wears the pride of the Olympian victor.

    Greek · hymn

    the Charites, Aglaia, Euphrosyne, Thalia

    InvocationPraise
    5th c. BC

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16. 016

    Prayer to Eileithyia

    PINDAR · NEMEAN ODES · 7.1 ff

    Goddess of childbirth, Eileithyia, maid to the throne of the deep-thinking Moirai, child of all-powerful Hera, hear my song. For without thee should we see neither the light of day, nor know the kindly dark, nor win the gift of Hebe, thy sister, the glorious limbs of youth.

    Greek · hymn

    Eileithyia, Hera, the Moirai, Hebe

    InvocationPraise
    5th c. BC

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17. 017

    Prayer to Bacchus

    SENECA · OEDIPUS · 403-441; 503-508

    Let the people's hymn sound with the praise of Bacchus. Bind your streaming locks with the nodding ivy, and in your soft hands grasp the Nysaean thyrsus! Bright glory of the sky, come hither to the prayers which thine own illustrious Thebes, O Bacchus, offers to thee with suppliant hands. Hither turn with favour thy virginal face; with thy star-bright countenance drive away the clouds, the grim threats of Erebus, and greedy fate. Thee it becomes to circle thy locks with flowers of the springtime, thee to cover thy head with Tyrian turban, or thy smooth brow to wreathe with the ivy's clustering berries; now to fling loose thy lawless-streaming locks, again to bind them in a knot close-drawn; in such guise as when, fearing thy stepdame's wrath, thou didst grow to manhood with false-seeming limbs, a pretended maiden with golden ringlets, with saffron girdle binding thy garments. So thereafter this soft vesture has pleased thee, folds loose hanging and the long-trailing mantle. Seated in thy golden chariot, thy lions with long trappings covered, all the vast coast of the Orient saw thee, both he who drinks of the Ganges and whoever breaks the ice of snowy Araxes. On an unseemly ass old Silenus attends thee, his swollen temples bound with ivy garlands; while thy wanton initiates lead the mystic revels. Along with thee a troop of Bassarids in Edonian dance beat the ground, now on Mount Pangaeus' peak, now on the top of Thracian Pindus; now midst Cadmean dames has come a maenad, the impious comrade of Ogygian Bacchus, with sacred fawn-skins girt about her loins, her hand a light thyrsus brandishing. Their hearts maddened by thee, the matrons have set their hair a-flowing;

    Roman · hymn

    Bacchus, Liber, Phoebus, Ariadne, Palaemon

    InvocationPraise
    1st c. AD

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18. 018

    Prayer to Artemis

    CALLIMACHUS · HYMNS · 3.1-3; 122-141; 225-250; 259-268

    Of Artemis we hymn — no light thing is it for singers to forget her — whose study is the bow and the shooting of hares and the spacious dance and sport upon the mountains. The fourth time — not long was it ere thou didst shoot at the city of unjust men, those who to one another and those who towards strangers wrought many deeds of sin, forward men, on whom thou wilt impress thy grievous wrath. On their cattle plague feeds, on their tilth feeds frost, and the old men cut their hair in mourning over their sons, and their wives either are smitten or die in childbirth, or, if they escape, bear birds whereof none stands on upright ankle. But on whomsoever thou lookest smiling and gracious, for them the tilth bears the corn-ear abundantly, and abundantly prospers the four-footed breed, and abundant waxes their prosperity: neither do they go to the tomb, save when they carry thither the aged. Nor does faction wound their race — faction which ravages even the well-established houses: but brother's wife and husband's sister set their chairs around one board... Lady, of that number be whosoever is a true friend of mine, and of that number may I be myself, O Queen. And may song be my study forever. In that song shall be the Marriage of Leto; therein thy name shall often-times be sung; therein shall Apollon be and therein all thy labours, and therein thy hounds and thy bow and thy chariot, which lightly carry thee in thy splendour, when thou drivest to the house of Zeus... Lady of many shrines, of many cities, hail! Khitone, sojourner in Miletos; for thee did Neleus make his Guide, when he put off with his ships from the land of Kekrops. Khesias and Imbrasia, throned in the highest, to thee in thy shrine did Agamemnon dedicate the rudder of his ship, a charm against ill weather, when thou didst bind the winds for him, what time the Akhaian ships sailed to vex the cities of the Teukroi, wroth for Rhamnusian Helene. For thee surely Proitos established two shrines, one of Artemis Kore for that thou didst gather for him his maiden daughters, when they were wandering over the Azanian hills; the other he founded in Lousa to Artemis Hemere, because thou tookest from his daughters the spirit of wildness. For thee, too, the Amazones, whose mind is set on war, in Ephesos beside the sea established an image beneath an oak trunk, and Hippo performed a holy rite for thee, and they themselves, O Oupis Queen, around the image danced a war-dance — first in shields and armour, and again in a circle arraying a spacious choir. And the loud pipes thereto piped shrill accompaniment, that they might foot the dance together. And the echo reached unto Sardis and to the Berekynthian range. And they with their feet beat loudly and therewith their quivers rattled. And afterwards around that image was raised a shrine of broad foundations. That dawn shall behold nothing more divine, naught richer. Easily would it outdo Pytho. O Mounikhia, Limenoskope, hail, Pheraia! Let none disparage Artemis. For Oineus dishonoured her altar and no pleasant struggles came upon his city. Nor let any contend with her in shooting of stags or in archery. For the son of Atreus vaunted him not that he suffered small requital. Neither let any woo the Maiden; for not Otos, nor Orion wooed her to their own good. Nor let any shun the yearly dance; for not tearless to Hippo was her refusal to dance around the altar. Hail, great queen, and graciously greet my song.

    Greek · hymn

    Artemis

    InvocationPraisePetition
    3rd c. BC

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19. 019

    Prayer to Asclepius

    ANONYMOUS (INSCRIPTION FROM ERYTHRAI) · GREEK LYRIC (CAMPBELL, VOL. V) · fr. 939

    Sing, youths, of Paian, skill-famed, Leto's son, Far-shooter — ie Paian! — who fathered a great joy for mortals when he mingled in love with Koronis in the land of the Phlegyai — ie Paian! — Asklepios, the most famous god — ie Paian! By him were fathered Makhaon and Podaleirios and Iaso — ie Paian! — and fair-eyed Aigle and Panakea, children of Epione, along with Hygieia, all-glorious, undefiled; ie Paian! Asklepios, the most famous god — ie Paian! Greetings I give you: graciously visit our wide-spaced city — ie Paian! — and grant that we look on the sun's light in joy, approved with the help of Hygieia, all-glorious, undefiled : ie Paian! — Asklepios, the most famous god — ie Paian!

    Greek · hymn

    Asclepius, Apollo, Hygieia, Iaso, Aegle, Panacea, Epione, Machaon, Podaleirius

    InvocationPetitionPraise
    Greek (BC, exact date uncertain)

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20. 020

    Hymn to Artemis

    ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 27

    I sing of Artemis with shafts of gold, strong-voiced, the revered virgin, deer-shooting, delighter in arrows, own sister to Apollon of the golden sword. Over the shadowy hills and windy peaks she draws her golden bow, rejoicing in the chase, and sends out grievous shafts. The tops of the high mountains tremble and the tangled wood echoes awesomely with the outcry of beasts: earth quakes and the sea also where fishes shoal. But the goddess with a bold heart turns every way destroying the race of wild beasts: and when she is satisfied and has cheered her heart, then the huntress who delights in arrows slackens her supple bow and goes to the great house of her dear brother Phoibos Apollon, to the rich land of Delphoi, there to order the lovely dance of the Mousai and Kharites. There she hangs up her curved bow and her arrows, and heads and leads the dances, gracefully arrayed, while all they utter their heavenly voice, singing how neat-ankled Leto bare children supreme among the immortals both in thought and deed. Hail to you, children of Zeus and rich-haired Leto! And now I will remember you and another song also.

    Greek · hymn

    Artemis, Apollo, Leto, the Muses, the Charites

    InvocationPraise
    archaic Greek (7th-4th c. BC)

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21. 021

    Hymn to Prothyraea

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 2

    O venerable Goddess, hear my prayer, for labour pains are thy peculiar care. In thee, when stretched upon the bed of grief, the sex, as in a mirror, view relief. Guard of the race, endued with gentle mind, to helpless youth benevolent and kind; benignant nourisher; great nature's key belongs to no divinity but thee. Thou dwellest with all immanifest to sight, and solemn festivals are thy delight. Thine is the task to loose the virgin's zone and thou in every work art seen and known. With births you sympathise, though pleased to see the numerous offspring of fertility. When racked with labour pangs, and sore distressed the sex invoke thee, as the soul's sure rest; for thou Eileithyia alone canst give relief to pain, which art attempts to ease, but tries in vain. Artemis Eileithyia, venerable power, who bringest relief in labour's dreadful hour; hear, Prothyraia and make the infant race thy constant care.

    Greek · hymn

    Prothyraea, Artemis, Eileithyia

    InvocationPetition
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

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22. 022

    Hymn to Ares

    ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 8

    Ares, exceeding in strength, chariot-rider, golden-helmed, doughty in heart, shield-bearer, saviour of cities, harnessed in bronze, strong of arm, unwearying, mighty with the spear, O defender of Olympos, father of warlike Nike, ally of Themis, stern governor of the rebellious, leader of the righteous men, scepted King of manliness, who whirl your fiery sphere among the planets in their sevenfold courses through the aither wherein your blazing steeds ever bear you above the third firmament of heaven; hear me, helper of men, giver of dauntless youth! Shed down a kindly ray from above upon my life, and strength of war, that I may be able to drive away bitter cowardice from my head and crush down the deceitful impulses of my soul. Restrain also the keen fury of my heart which provokes me to tread the ways of bloodcurdling strife. Rather, O blessed one, give you me boldness to abide within the harmless laws of peace, avoiding strife and hatred and the violent fiends of death.

    Greek · hymn

    Ares

    InvocationPetitionPraise
    late antique (Homeric corpus, hymn 8 is post-classical)

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23. 023

    Prayer to Priapus

    JULIUS AGATHEMERUS (DEDICATOR) · HYMN TO PRIAPUS, CIL XIV 3565

    Hail, holy Priapus, father of all things, hail! Give me a flourishing youth so that, be it boys be it girls, I can please them with my horny phallus, and with frequent games and jokes, I may dissipate the worries that vex the mind and not fear heavy old age too much, that I not be vexed with terror of miserable death, which will drag me to the jealous mansions of Avernus where their king holds sway over the fabled Manes and the fates deny anyone a return. Hail, holy father Priapus, hail! Come gather at once, however many you all are, you girls who tend the sacred grove, you girls who tend the sacred waters, come gather, however many you are, and with a pleasing voice, speak to beautiful Priapus: Hail, holy Priapus, father of all things! Next, place a thousand kisses on his crotch, gird his phallus well with fragrant wreaths, and once more all say to him: Hail, holy Priapus, father of all things! For warding off evil, blood-stained people, he grants you to go through the woods and through the unbloodied shady silences. He also wards off wrongdoers from the springs, who with illicit foot would walk across the sacred waters and disturb them, who wash their hands and do not first with many a prayer invoke you, you girlish goddesses. All say: O Priapus, be favorable, father, hail, holy father Priapus, hail! O Priapus, potent friend, hail, whether you wish to be called the father and creator of this sphere, or Nature herself and the Universe, hail! For it is by your vigor that everything is conceived which fills the earth, aether and sea. So hail, Priapus, hail, holy one! Jupiter himself, when you wish it, puts down his thunderbolts at once and in his lust leaves his bright dwellings behind. Good Venus, glowing Cupid, the Grace and her twin sisters worship you, as does Lyaeus, the giver of joy. For without you Venus is little regarded, and the Grace, Cupid and Bacchus are without charm. O Priapus, potent friend, hail! Chaste virgins call on you in prayer that you may open their long fastened girdle, and the bride calls you, so that her husband may often have a hard and always a potent member. Hail, holy father Priapus, hail!

    Roman · hymn

    Priapus, the Nymphs, Jupiter, Venus, Cupid, the Graces, Liber

    InvocationPetitionDedication
    early 1st c. AD (ca. 1-50 AD)

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24. 024

    Hymn to Athena

    ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 28

    I begin to sing of Pallas Athena, the glorious goddess, bright-eyed, inventive, unbending of heart, pure virgin, saviour of cities, courageous, Tritogeneia. From his awful head wise Zeus himself bare her arrayed in warlike arms of flashing gold, and awe seized all the gods as they gazed. But Athena sprang quickly from the immortal head and stood before Zeus who holds the aegis, shaking a sharp spear: great Olympos began to reel horribly at the might of the grey-eyed goddess, and earth round about cried fearfully, and the sea was moved and tossed with dark waves, while foam burst forth suddenly: the bright Son of Hyperion stopped his swift-footed horses a long while, until the maiden Pallas Athena had stripped the heavenly armour from her immortal shoulders. And wise Zeus was glad. Hail to you, daughter of Zeus who holds the aegis!

    Greek · hymn

    Athena

    InvocationPraise
    archaic Greek (7th-6th c. BC)

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25. 025

    Scipio's prayer before sailing to Africa

    LIVY · AB URBE CONDITA · 29.27.1 ff.

    Gods and Goddesses who inhabit the land and sea, to You I pray and ask that whatsoever has been done under my auspices and my command, is now being done or shall be done, may prove beneficial for me, for the people of Rome and their children, and for our allies and the Latins, who joined with the Roman army under my auspices in waging war on land and sea. May Your good counsel and assistance be with me and may You bless all our endeavors with rich increase. May You guard the welfare and sustenance of our soldiers, allow the victors to return home healthy and safe, and laden with the spoils of victory. May they bring back honors and plunder to share in my triumphal procession after defeating our enemy. Grant to me and to the Roman people the power of vengeance and the opportunity and means to inflict on our enemies the same as the Carthaginians have striven to inflict against the people of Rome and thereby an example shall be set for others.

    Roman · public

    PetitionInvocation
    late 1st c. BC (describing events of 204 BC)

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26. 026

    Prayer to Aesculapius

    OVID · METAMORPHOSES · 15.677-678

    Behold the God! It is the God. Think holy thoughts and walk in reverent silence, all who are present. Oh, most Beautiful, let us behold you to our benefit, and give aid to this people that performs your sacred rites.

    Roman · public

    Aesculapius

    PetitionInvocation
    early 1st c. AD

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27. 027

    Prayer to Jupiter

    OVID · FASTI · 4.827-832

    As I found this city, be present, Jupiter, Father Mars, and Mother Vesta, and all gods who it is pious to summon, join together to attend. Grant that my work may rise with Your auspices. Grant that it may for many years hold dominion on earth, and assert its power over the east and west.

    Roman · public

    Jupiter, Mars, Vesta

    PetitionInvocation
    early 1st c. AD

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28. 028

    Prayer to Terminus and Jupiter

    OVID · FASTI · 2.659-684

    You set bounds to peoples, cities, great kingdoms: without you every field would be disputed. You curry no favour: you aren't bribed with gold, guarding the land entrusted to you in good faith. If you'd once marked the bounds of Thyrean lands, three hundred men would not have died, nor Othryades' name be seen on the pile of weapons. O how he made his fatherland bleed! What happened when the new Capitol was built? The whole throng of gods yielded to Jupiter and made room: but as the ancients tell, Terminus remained in the shrine where he was found, and shares the temple with great Jupiter. Even now there's a small hole in the temple roof, so he can see nothing above him but stars. Since then, Terminus, you've not been free to wander: stay there, in the place where you've been put, and yield not an inch to your neighbour's prayers, lest you seem to set men above Jupiter: and whether they beat you with rakes, or ploughshares, call out: 'This is your field, and that is his!' The lands of other races have fixed boundaries: the extent of the City of Rome and the world is one.

    Roman · hymn

    Terminus, Jupiter

    PraiseInvocation
    early 1st c. AD

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29. 029

    Prayer to Venus Verticordia and Fortuna Virilis

    OVID · FASTI · 4.133-162

    Duly do you worship the goddess, you Latin mothers and brides, and you too who wear not the fillets and long robe. Take off the golden necklaces from the marble neck of the goddess; take off her gauds; the goddess must be washed from top to toe. Then dry her neck and restore to it her golden necklaces; now give her other flowers, now give her the fresh-blown rose. You too she herself bids bathe under the green myrtle, and there is a certain reason for her command; learn what it is. Naked, she was drying on the shore her oozy locks, when the satyrs, a wanton crew, espied the goddess. She perceived it, and screened her body by myrtle interposed: that done, she was safe, and she bids you do the same. Learn now why you give incense to Virile Fortune in the place which reeks of warm water. All women strip when they enter that place, and every blemish on the naked body is plain to see; Virile Fortune undertakes to conceal the blemish and to hide it from the men, and this she does for the consideration of a little incense. Nor grudge to take poppy pounded with snowy milk and liquid honey squeezed from the comb; when Venus was first escorted to her eager spouse, she drank that draught: from that time she was a bride. Propitiate her with supplications; beauty and virtue and good fame are in her keeping. In the time of our forefathers Rome had fallen from a state of chastity, and the ancients consulted the old woman of Cumae. She ordered a temple to be built to Venus, and when that was duly done, Venus took the name of Changer of the Heart from the event. Fairest of goddesses, ever behold the sons of Aeneas with look benign, and guard your offspring's numerous wives.

    Roman · ritual

    Venus Verticordia, Fortuna Virilis

    InvocationPetition
    early 1st c. AD

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30. 030

    The oath of Aeneas and Latinus

    VIRGIL · AENEID · 12.176-82; 197-211

    May the Sun now bear witness, and so too the Earth, I pray, for whom I have been able to endure these many labors, and you, Almighty Father, and you his consort (Juno), daughter of Saturnus, at one time more beneficial, at another kinder, be so now as I pray to you, O Goddess, and to you, too, Father Mavors, who wields all warfare under your powers, and on all the springs and rivers of this land I invoke as witnesses, and all the powers of the high heavens and those of the deep blue seas on whom it is proper to call. By these same deities I, Aeneas, swear, by the Earth and the Sea, by the stars and Latona's twin children, and dual-faced Janus, and the powers of the gods below, and the harsh shrines of Father Dis. May the Great Father hear my vow, he that sanctions alliances with his thunderbolt. I touch the altars, and by the fires and by the divine powers who I have called to witness, I so swear, that never shall I breach this alliance or the peace of Italy, no matter what or how things happen, nothing shall divert my will, not even if waves would cover the earth, plunging all into deluge, and the Heavens fell into deepest Tartarus.

    Roman · public

    Sol, Earth, Jupiter, Juno, Mars, Janus, Apollo, Diana, Dis Pater, the Manes

    OathInvocation
    late 1st c. BC

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31. 031

    Prayer to the ancestors

    LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Triakas — Prayer to the Ancestors

    I honour the Venerable Ancestors with my prayers. O' Glorious Founding Fathers, I invoke your illustrious name. It is through you that we have seen our Sacred earth, it is you who guide us as we follow the road of Honour and Virtue. May we be worthy of the glory of your generations. To hold unfadingly your living memory with great Fortitude! I pour libations in memory of you, strengthening, with this wine, our sacred bond! May you always be a support and a solid foundation to our household, O' Immortal Ancestral Souls!

    Greek · ritual

    GratitudeInvocationDedication
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32. 032

    Prayer to Aphrodite and Eros

    LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Wedding Ceremony — Hymn to Aphrodite and Eros

    We praise the Golden-wreathed, modest, matrimonial, exceedingly beautiful Aphrodite. You who wears upon your immortal head a well woven wreath of gold, You rouse a sweet yearning in Gods and men alike. Khaire, Cyprus-born Goddess, who brings gentle holy gifts to mortals. And You, sweet Eros, winged, powerful archer, who fills people with fire, keen key-bearer of all, filling our lives with joy. Come O' Blessed Gods who grants desired descendants, friends of men and women, nurturers of mortals.

    Greek · ritual

    Aphrodite, Eros

    InvocationPraise
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33. 033

    Prayer to Apollo and Asclepius

    MAKEDONIKOS OF AMPHIPOLIS · INSCRIPTIONES GRAECAE II³ 4, 777

    We praise the silver-bowed Delian, Zeus's beautiful quiver, silently holy and compassionate, IE PAIAN. Like the Aglaion Êrnos, the supplicant pledges with olive and laurel branch in hand, IE PAIAN, calling upon the leader of the Muses, singing pure hymns to the far-shooting son of Leto, IE PAIAN. Asklepios, kindly youth, defender against any born disease, warder of mortal woes, IE O IE PAIAN. To Kentauros, the pain warder of humans, You taught all the secret healing arts on the peaks of Mt. Pelias, IE PAIAN. Child of Koronis, mild man and modest spirit, IE PAIAN. Adorning the Hellenic lances of the young soldiers, IE PAIAN. Children of Epione and noble Hygeia, Iaso, Akeso and Aigle and Panacea, IE PAIAN. Khaire, illustrious spirit, great benefit of mortals, IE O IE PAIAN. You are gentle, Makar, eliminate dread diseases, IE O IE PAIAN. Come Blessed Paian and grant to your supplicant much-desired health.

    Greek · ritual

    Apollo, Asclepius

    PraisePetitionInvocation
    2nd-1st c. BC

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34. 034

    Prayer to Artemis and the Moirai

    LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Wedding Ceremony — Prayer to Artemis and the Moirae

    I call You, O' royal Artemis, illustrious daughter of Zeus, modest maid, of the brave heart, nurturer, protectress of young children, and Moirae, friendly children of Nyx, come to me who prays, You who are clad in purple, You are the authorities of good order, perfect eye of Zeus. Lakhesis, Klotho and Atropos, only You see the whole of mortal life. Hear my prayers, accept these holy libations, grant a bright and thriving life, full of merriment.

    Greek · ritual

    Artemis, the Moirai

    PetitionInvocation
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35. 035

    Prayer to Demeter

    LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Namegiving Ceremony — Hymn to Demetra Kourotrophos

    O' Dio, mother of all, illustrious Goddess, venerable Demetra, You who nurtures the children and grants peace, wealth and happiness. Much-desired beloved Goddess, who takes care of all people. Affectionate, child-nurturer; You who holds the newborn children in your arms; blow sweetly on my child, granting the virtues of the soul to him/her and the beauty of nature.

    Greek · ritual

    Demeter

    PetitionInvocation
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36. 036

    Prayer to Gaia

    LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Eniausia — first anniversary — Prayer to Gaia

    Goddess Gaia, mother of all Gods and mortals. All-nurturing, all-giving, all-fulfilling, seat of the undying world. Immortal, venerable, multi-formed maiden, many flowered Goddess of the happy fate. O' Goddess Gaia, we have come to give thanks, for the hospitality you extend to the body of [name of deceased].

    Greek · ritual

    Gaia

    GratitudeInvocation
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37. 037

    Prayer to Hermes

    LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Burial Ceremony — Hymn to Hermes Khthonios

    O' Hermes who dwells on Kokytos' necessary path of no return, who guides the souls of mortals to Hades. Child of Dionysos, the Bacchic dancer, and, the Kore from Paphos, Aphrodite of the curving lashes. You who serves in the holy house of Persephone, as a guide to the ill-fated souls of the earth, with whom you descend at the fateful hour. Bearer of the sacred staff of sleep, who brings rest to everything, and again, in turn, awakens those who slumber, for, to you, the goddess Persephone has granted the honour of guiding human souls in their relentless and eternal march into wide Tartarus. O' God, may you guide with your staff the soul of [name of deceased], who is a child of Ouranos and Gaia, guide them to the Elysian Fields, the pure place with wondrous light, and filled with joyful voices and dance, with hushed sacred sounds and holy images.

    Greek · ritual

    Hermes

    InvocationPetition
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38. 038

    Prayer to Peitho

    LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Wedding Ceremony — Prayer to Peitho

    Sweet renowned Peitho, Beneficence and grace to mortals, Your word is of the greatest sanctity, it is to You, O' Goddess, that we open our hearts. I pray that our journey in life be prosperous, with love and mutual commitment, that we may not consider anything more important or equal to our Love, and as Love joins and makes everything into one, may it join our lives, our minds and our souls.

    Greek · ritual

    Peitho

    PetitionInvocation
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39. 039

    Prayer to Zeus and Hera

    LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Wedding Ceremony — Prayer to Zeus and Hera

    I invoke the Great, the Pure, the Imperishable, the Much-honoured, Father of the Blessed gods and of men; Greatest Zeus and Hera, Queen of all, Blessed wife of Zeus, Mistress of Matrimony, well-disposed Mother. Come to us and grant to the newly-weds, health and nurturing peace, a life of mirth and well-being — a life of mutual dedication.

    Greek · ritual

    Zeus, Hera

    PetitionInvocation
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40. 040

    Prayer to the Agathos Daimon

    LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Ceremony for the Sacred Days — Prayer to Agathodaimon

    I address myself to You, O' Bountiful guardian of our Household who determines the fortune of people. You who are at the centre of our home, bringer of wealth, vigilant counsel of mortals. Fertile, gentle god, companion of Agathe Tyche, mighty foundation of happiness. To You, I raise my cup, pouring a sacred libation. May You, the footprint of the Immortals on earth, be the mentor of our Household. That prosperity, good fortune and wealth never be absent from our home. Welcome Agathodaimon, companion to Zeus Ktesios.

    Greek · ritual

    the Agathos Daimon

    InvocationPetitionDedication
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41. 041

    Prayer to Apollo

    LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Purification Ceremony — Hymn to Apollon

    I think and sing of Apollon Hecatios. From years past, it is a sacred custom to call upon you. Evil-averting Paian, far-seeing ruler of the World. Great Archer, who established purifications, with yourself as example; after the slaughter of Python, you fled to Karmanora, where you were of service to yourself and atoned. Shoot, with your invincible arrows, the Pythons and the Typhoës, O' Lykêos, with the broad quiver. Infallible giver of oracles, who reigns over the immortal Gods and the mortals of life-giving Earth. I come to you in purity. Grant me fortitude and enlighten my mind so that the dark êrebus which inflicts my soul may be dissolved. Assist me, O' golden-lyred, far-shooting Apollon, that I may resist the onslaught of deceitful and deceptive spectres, release me from infectious ignorance and darkness. Ie Paiean, Ie Paiean, Ie Paiean, Ie Katharsios.

    Greek · ritual

    Apollo

    InvocationPetitionProtection
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42. 042

    Prayer to Apollo

    LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Noumenia — Hymn to Apollon

    I remember and do not forget Apollon Hekateios. From years past, it is a sacred custom to invoke You. Come O' Blessed Paian, splendidly honoured Phoibos, Ie Dispenser of Blessings, Spermatic, Pythian, Delphic Diviner, Bright Daimon. You who sees the boundless aether and the joyful earth from above; Your eyes are the stars, dispelling the darkness. With your laurel branch, you shake the heavens, Apollon, You who does not appear to all but only to those who are good. Great is he who beholds You, insignificant are those who have not. We wish to be in Your presence, O' Hekatevolos, so that we may never be insignificant again. Ie Noumenios, come with a good disposition, bearing good fortune and favourable outcomes to our endeavours in the month to come, Ie Paian, Ie Apollon, Ie Noumenios.

    Greek · ritual

    Apollo

    InvocationPetition
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43. 043

    Prayer to Athena

    LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Heliodites — Hymn to Athena

    Most High Goddess Pallas, golden wreathed Athena, Great Goddess of the World; You who sprang fully armed from our Father's venerable head. Virgin goddess who awakens in us the indestructible and illuminated Nous. Shield-bearing, Immaculate, You who governs the Whole World. Untamed Metis who merges the opposites, thrice-born Maiden; bright flower. You have filled the mind of the Father with the laws of Universal Beauty. You are all which exists, all which is still to come and all that has been. Glorious Goddess, Bright-eyed Maiden, grant the strength and love to raise me from the embrace of Gaia to illuminated Olympos. O' Goddess, offer to us your immaculate Wisdom and mental power, granting us the blessings of Olympos that uplift the soul, banishing the great illusions of the World.

    Greek · ritual

    Athena

    InvocationPetitionPraise
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44. 044

    Prayer to Hecate

    ANONYMOUS · GREEK MAGICAL PAPYRI (PGM IV) · 2785-2870

    Come to me, O' beloved lady, three faced Selene, listen, with kindness, to my sacred chant. Youthful, exulted Jewel of the Night, bringing light to mortals; child of early dawn, riding joyfully on fierce bulls, O' Queen, driving the chariot along the path of Helios; In triple form, You dance, three-headed, with the three Kharites, revelling with the stars, and Dike and the threads of the Moirae; Klotho, and Lakhesis as well as Atropos, and Persephone, Megaira and Allecto. Multi-formed, your hands armed with the dreaded dark lamps, your mane of terrifying serpents shakes upon your brow, from your mouth is heard the roaring of bulls. Solitary, night-crier, bull-faced, bull-headed, you have the eyes of bulls, you have the voice of dogs, you hide amongst lions by taking their shape. Your ankles are wolf-shaped, fierce dogs are your friends, hence they call you Hekate, illustrious Mene, you dart through the air as arrow-shooting Artemis, four-faced goddess, of the four names, of the four roads. Artemis, Persephone, deer-shooting, night-shining, triple striking, triple sounding, triple headed, triple named Selene; three-pronged, triple-faced, triple-necked and of the triple roads. Come, graciously hear my call, You who oversees the wide world of the night, darkness voyaging Goddess; famed, easy-birthing, bull-faced, horned, mother of Gods and men, Nature's All-Mother. You frequent Olympos, traversing the broad and boundless abyss, You are the beginning and the end, You alone rule all.

    Greek · ritual

    Hecate

    InvocationPraise
    3rd-4th c. AD

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45. 045

    Prayer to Helios

    LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Heliodites — Hymn to Helios

    Come O' King of the noeric fire, Golden Titan. Come O' benefactor of light, who holds the key to the source, You preserve life, governing the material worlds from above with complete and absolute harmony. Come, You who holds the cardinal abode of the sky, and the central radiant circle of the World. You have filled everything with your providence; stimulating the mind. Most excellent of the Gods, Flame-crowned, You are the image of the God who created everything, You elevate the souls. Hear me and cleanse me, remove the stains which infect my soul. Keep me far from punishment, soothing the sharp gaze of justice which sees everything. To my body grant resilience and health. And drive away that which is sent against us from the ever changing weaves of the Moirae, spun beneath the swirling stars. O' Great King, illuminate our minds and grant unimpaired light to our souls.

    Greek · ritual

    Helios

    InvocationPetition
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46. 046

    Prayer to Hestia

    LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Hymn to Hestia

    Hestia, royal daughter of almighty Kronos, You who holds the central abode, the magnificent perpetual fire, elevate the respectful suppliants who worship You in their holy ceremonies, grant to them ever-flourishing happiness, glad and pure, O' dwelling of the Blissful Gods, steady support of mortals, eternal, glow-formed, needed by all, come, smiling Blessed Goddess, accept these offerings with kind heart, inspire happiness and gentle health.

    Greek · ritual

    Hestia

    InvocationPetitionPraise
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47. 047

    Prayer to Hygieia

    ARIPHRON · PAIAN TO HYGEIA

    O' Hygeia of the Blissful Ones, you are most revered by mortals; with you I traverse the life remaining in me. For what is the joy of wealth or of children, or what brings people closer to the Gods? The power of a king or the secret lust brought by Aphrodite, or that obvious relief from pain which is the god sent delight. With you, blissful divine Hygeia, the company of the Kharites shine and bloom, without you, no one has well-being.

    Greek · ritual

    Hygieia

    PraiseInvocation
    4th c. BC

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48. 048

    The Prayer of Musaeus

    PLETHON / MOUSAIOS ADAPTATION · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Noumenia Ceremony — Prayer of Mousaios

    King Zeus and Gaia and sacred heavenly flames of Helios; holy light of Mene and all the stars; and You, dark haired Poseidon, earth-shaker; pure Persephone and Demetra of the bountiful fruit; Artemis, the maiden archer and farshooting Phoibos, who dwells in the sacred valley of Delphi, holding the highest honours amongst the Blessed; dancing Dionysos, bold Ares and powerful holy Ephaistos, foam-born goddess, bearer of famous gifts, and You, King of the Underworld, great and venerable God; Hebe and Eileithia and brave Heracles, and the great providence of Dikaiosyne and Eusevia; I also call the splendid Nymphs and Pan, the Great, and Hera, vigorous wife of aegis-bearing Zeus; I invoke the lovely Mnemosyne and the nine sublime Muses and the Kharites and the Horês of the Eniautos, Leto with the beautiful limbs, the modest Theio and Dione, the Kouretes, the armed Koryvantes, and the Kaveires, as well as our great Saviours, the indestructible children of Zeus, the great Idaian gods and the heavenly messenger, Hermes, the communicator, and Themis, the diviner of men, I invite venerable Nyx and brightly glowing Day, Pisti and Dike and the immaculate Lawgiver, Rhea and Kronos and the dark-veiled Tethys, Okeanos, the Great, and his daughters, the Okeanides, Atlas' and Aionos' superior power, and the eternal Time, and the splendid water of Styx, the soothing Gods and the benevolent Pronoia; the all-holy Daimona of the Gods and the malevolent of mortals, all heavenly, air and water Gods, all Gods of the earth, and of the fire, and of the underworld. Semele and the company of Bakkhos; Ino Leukothea and Palaimon, the bliss-giver, Sweet tongued Nike and queen Adrastea, and the great king, giver of tranquillity, Asclepios, Pallas, the fearsome maiden, and all the Winds and the Thunder, the steady foundation of the Kosmos, Mother of the Immortals, Attis and Mena, I call the Goddess Ourania together with her immortal pure Adonis, the Beginning and the End — the greatest of all. Come with benevolence and happy hearts, to this holy ceremony and sacred libation.

    Greek · ritual

    Zeus, Gaia, Helios, Poseidon, Persephone, Demeter, Artemis, Apollo, Dionysus, Ares, Hephaestus, Aphrodite, Hades, Hermes, Hera, Athena, Asclepius

    InvocationPraise
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49. 049

    Prayer to Selene

    ANONYMOUS / ORPHIC TRADITION · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Full Moon Ceremony — Hymn to Selene

    Hear us, O' Goddess, light-bearing Queen, divine Selene; bull-horned Mene, night-roaming, airborne, nocturnal, torch-bearing, dark maiden; Mene, who waxes and wanes, masculine and feminine; illuminating, horse-loving, mother of time; fruit-bearing, amber, atmospheric, all-shining, each night; You, the all-seeing, vigilant, filled with beautiful stars, joyful in the silence and the fortunate night; bright, joy-bringing, full-cycled, jewel of the night; O' star-queen, long-veiled, variable, all-wise maid, approach with bliss and delight; rich with stars and shining light three-fold; protect your new suppliants, O' Maid.

    Greek · ritual

    Selene

    InvocationPetitionPraise
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50. 050

    Prayer to Mercury

    HORACE · CARMINA · 1.10.1-8; 17-20

    Mercurius, by Atlas born to Maia, God who fashioned our uncivilized ancestors into cultured men of urbane speech and athletic bearing, to You I sing, Messenger of the Gods and of mighty Jove, inventor of the curved lyre, it pleases You to compose secret jokes and play pranks skillfully. Gladly You restore pious souls to their proper places and by the golden staff confine the trivial quarrel. Dear are You to the Gods above and below.

    Roman · literary

    Mercury

    PraiseInvocation
    Augustan

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51. 051

    Prayer to Earth

    ANTONIUS MUSA · PRECATIO TERRAE

    Holy Goddess, Tellus, Mother of all Nature, engendering all things and regenerating them each day, as You alone bring forth from Your womb all things into life. Heavenly Goddess, overseeing all things on earth and throughout the seas, in whatever by silent nature is restored in sleep and in death, in the same way that You put to flight the Night with the Light You restore each day. Earth, Enricher of Life, You dispel the dark shadow of death and the disorder of vast endless Chaos. You hold back the winds and storms, the rain showers and tempests. You alone regulate the weather cycles. You give the Food of Life unfailingly, in fidelity, and when the soul by necessity departs, in You alone do we find refuge. Thus, whatever You give, in You all will be returned. Deservedly are You called Great Mother of the Gods. You are the Great Goddess, the Queen of Heaven. You, Goddess, I adore. I call upon Your power, come. Make what I ask to be readily and easily accomplished.

    Roman · ritual

    Earth

    InvocationPraisePetition
    1st c. BC - 1st c. AD

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52. 052

    Prayer to Earth

    STATIUS · THEBAID · 8.303-324

    O eternal Creatrix of Gods and men, who animates forest and stream with soul, and joins seeds of life together throughout the world, and You bear the stones of Pyrrha that were enlivened into men by the hand of Prometheus. Hungry men You were first to give nourishment with a variety of foods. You encircle and carry the sea within You. Under Your power are the gentleness of domesticated herds and the ferocity of wild beasts and the repose from flight of birds. Firm and immobile, unsetting power of the earth suspended in the vacuum of space, You are the center around which the rapid heavens revolve. Therefore are You the Bountiful who nourishes so many nations. I pray You allow that those warriors who spend their last breath in the battle will have their souls return once more into the heavens.

    Roman · literary

    Earth

    InvocationPraisePetition
    1st c. AD

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53. 053

    Prayer to Earth and the Penates

    VIRGIL · AENEID · 7.120-122

    Hail, O Mother Tellus, for whom I am destined, and you, too, faithful Gods of Troy, hail O Penates. This is our home; this, our homeland.

    Roman · literary

    Earth, the Penates

    InvocationGratitude
    Augustan

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54. 054

    Prayer to Venus

    LUCRETIUS · DE RERUM NATURA · 1.1-9

    Venus Genetrix, charmer of gods and mankind, nurturing Mother, beneath the starry signs that glide through the night, You enliven the ship-bearing seas and the fruitful earth, since it is through You that all things are conceived and animated into life to behold the Light of Day. Goddess, for You the winds make way, the heavenly clouds open at Your coming, the miraculous earth greets You with sweet scented flowers, for You the surface of the seas laugh, and the peaceful heavens glisten in luminescence.

    Roman · literary

    Venus

    InvocationPraise
    1st c. BC

    →
55. 055

    Prayer to Carmenta

    ANONYMOUS · RITUS CARMENTIS · Hail prayer

    Hail, Carmentis, Goddess of song and prophecy. From Your father Sebathus, Telon, king of the Taphonians, took You away from the river shores of Naples to the isle of Capree, there as Bateia, wife of Oebalus, to become mother to Spartans and Sabines alike. From Campania You set sail with Your son Evander up the River Tiber, showing him where to make land, and teaching him the songs by which to found Paletum. In Your sacred grove beneath the Palatine Hill You sang as Nicostrate the rites by which Hercules was to honor His Father Jupiter. There, too, You met with Dardanian Aeneas, singing for him the vision of Rome that his generations would found upon the Septimonium. There in Your sacred grove you sang to the infant twins as they were nurtured by a she-wolf.

    Roman · ritual

    Carmenta

    PraiseInvocation
    modern reconstruction (Nova Roma)

    →
56. 056

    Prayer to Carmenta

    ANONYMOUS · RITUS CARMENTIS · childbirth prayer

    Grant her the strength, Carmentis, to whom I ask, to whom I pray; extend your assistance to her. Bring with you every herb for ending pain, and soothing songs to sing over her; from across the ocean, from distant shores, bear such herbs as will cure her most severe ills, or whatever else she may most fear. Rack this girl no longer with pain, nor cruelly delay her birthing.

    Roman · personal

    Carmenta

    PetitionInvocation
    modern reconstruction (Nova Roma)

    →
57. 057

    Prayer to Carmenta

    LIVIUS ANDRONICUS · ODISIA / EQUOS TROIANOS · 1.1

    Carmena, in hot pursuit of virtuous men, come to me. Before wise Minerva invented Roman numerals, before any Greek inscribed the words of Homer, Latin letters You taught to Eulina of Gabii. Maenelian Voice carried from across the sea, inspire us with song that we may address the Gods, bring charms to teach our children their letters, that they may carry on as pious Romans.

    Roman · literary

    Carmenta

    InvocationPetition
    3rd c. BC

    →
58. 058

    Prayer to Janus

    OVID · FASTI · 1.65-70

    Biformed Janus, source of years gliding by in silence, who alone among the immortal celestials sees his own back, come, attend our nobles as Your guests, those whose labors secure delightful pastimes for the earth, and peace on earth, peace on the seas. Attend and bless Your Senators and those of the people of Rome, the Quirites, and with a nod open Your gleaming gates onto peaceful precincts.

    Roman · literary

    Janus

    InvocationPetition
    Augustan

    →
59. 059

    The Salian Hymn

    VARRO · LINGUA LATINA / CARMEN SALII · 7.26

    Arise, O Consus, arise. All things, truly, I entrust to Patulcium the Opener. Now You are Janus the Gatekeeper, now Cerus the Good Creator, now Janus the God of Good Beginnings. Come, now most especially, You who are the better of these kings.

    Roman · ritual

    Janus, Consus

    Invocation
    Archaic

    →
60. 060

    Prayer to Juno

    APULEIUS · METAMORPHOSES · 6.4

    O spouse and sister of Mighty Jupiter, whether You are worshipped and adored in the public rites of the temples of Samos, or whether You are called upon singularly by women in their tearful moment of giving birth, Your glory is nourished. Famous among the Argives whose walls You defend, You who all the east venerates as Life-giving Zygia, who all the west names Lucina, may You be an advocate for me against my utter downfall, Juno Sospita, and endure until the end in all my weary labors, exhausted as I am, deliver me from imminent peril and free me from my fears, for I know You are accustomed to come of Your own accord to the assistance of such women who are pregnant and in danger.

    Roman · literary

    Juno

    PetitionInvocation
    2nd c. AD

    →
61. 061

    Prayer to Carmenta

    ANONYMOUS · RITUS CARMENTIS · healing prayer

    Draw near, Carmentis, and expel the illness from this tender girl. Come quickly, Carmentis. Believe me, never shall You regret at having laid Your healing hand upon this comely girl. Do not allow her form to languish pale and thin, nor disfiguring hue to mark her feeble limbs, and whatever ill has come upon her, whatever dread things we fear, may the rushing river-waters carry them away to the sea. Come, Holy Mother, and bring with You soothing herbs and healing songs as will ease her wearied body.

    Roman · ritual

    Carmenta

    PetitionInvocation
    modern reconstruction (Nova Roma)

    →
62. 062

    Prayer to Bacchus and Liber

    OVID · METAMORPHOSES · 4.11-17; 31

    Bacchus they call you, and Bromius, and Lyaeus, born in fire, and Savior also, who alone was born of two mothers. Revered as a God in Nyseus, unshorn Thyoneus, joyful Lenaeus, the sower of grapes, Lord of Nocturnal Revelries, the Bullroarer, and by many more names, Liber, are You known among the Greeks. Adored for your eternal youth, a youth everlasting, you the most beautiful among the celestial Gods high above, to You are sacrifices made when You, without horns upon Your most virgin head, are near and lend us Your assistance. Arising victorious in the East, illuminating those distant lands faded in memory, to outermost India as far as the banks of the Ganges. Calm and mild, may you come to us.

    Roman · literary

    Bacchus, Liber

    InvocationPraise
    Augustan

    →
63. 063

    Prayer to Bacchus

    PROPERTIUS · ELEGIAE · 3.17.1-10

    O Bacchus, humbly now I approach Your altar. Grant tranquil seas for me, Father, and a fair wind in my sails. You are able to tame even the rages of Venus; Your wine a cure for our sorrows. By You are lovers bound to one another; by You are their bonds dissolved.

    Roman · literary

    Bacchus

    PetitionDedicationInvocation
    Augustan

    →
64. 064

    Prayer to Bacchus and Ceres

    TIBULLUS · ELEGIAE · 2.1.3-4; 17-20

    Come to us, Bacchus, with clusters of grapes dangling from your horns, and you, too, Ceres, a wreath of newly ripened wheat for your temples, come! Gods of our fathers, we purify our farmers and our fruitful fields; we ask that you drive away harm from our borders. Let not the now sprouting plants succumb before harvest, let not the timid lambs be outrun by swift wolves.

    Roman · ritual

    Bacchus, Ceres

    InvocationPetitionProtection
    1st c. BC

    →
65. 065

    Prayer to Ceres

    VIRGIL · GEORGICS · 1.338-350

    Before all else, worship the Gods, and to great Ceres pay Her annual due upon the happy sward with sacrifice, at the utmost end of winter, when spring begins to smile. Then are the lambs fat, and the wines most mellow, then is sleep sweet, and dark the shadows fall upon the mountains. Let your rustic youth do obedience to Ceres, one and all; and for Her pleasure mix honeycombs in milk, and offer Liber's ripe produce. Thrice for luck around the young grain let the offerings travel, and all the choir, a joyful company, attend it, and with shouts bid Ceres come to be their house-mate. Let no man dare put sickle to ripened ears until, with woven oak his temples wreath, he foot the rugged dance and chant the lay.

    Roman · ritual

    Ceres

    InvocationDedicationPraise
    Augustan

    →
66. 066

    Prayer to Ceres

    APULEIUS · METAMORPHOSES · 6.2

    O merciful Mother, I pray You avert my sorrow, by Your generous and temperate right hand, by the joyful harvest festival, by Your mysteries kept in silent secrecy, by Your winged servants, the dragons who serve Your chariot as You go about, and by the furrows in Sicilian clods of earth, and the plow-wheels that churn them from firm soil, by the marriage of Proserpina that You discovered through diligently seeking after Your daughter, and by the mysteries held in silent secrecy within the Attic temple of Eleusis, halt the misery of Your servant Psyche. Among this piled wheat let me be concealed, if only for a few days, until the ire of so great a Goddess passes, or at least give me a quiet interval that I might rest from my great labour and travail.

    Roman · literary

    Ceres

    PetitionInvocation
    2nd c. AD

    →
67. 067

    Prayer to Ceres and Isis

    APULEIUS · METAMORPHOSES · 11.2

    O blessed Queen of Heaven, whether you are the Lady Ceres who is the original and motherly source of all fruitful things in earth, who after finding Your daughter Proserpina, through the great joy which You did presently conceive, made barren and unfruitful ground to be plowed and sown — You which nourishes all the fruits of the world by Your vigor and force; with whatsoever name or fashion it is lawful to call upon You, I pray You end my great travail and misery, and deliver me from the wretched fortune, which has for so long a time pursued me. Grant peace and rest if it please You to reply to my entreaties, for I have endured too much labor and peril. Remove from me this misshapen form, and return me to my pristine form, and if I have offended in any way the divine Majesty, let me rather die than live, for I am fully weary of my life.

    Roman · literary

    Ceres, Isis

    PetitionInvocation
    2nd c. AD

    →
68. 068

    Prayer to Ceres and Libera

    CICERO · IN C. VERREM · II.5.187-188

    O Ceres and Libera, whose sacred worship is contained in the most important and most abstruse mysteries; You, by whom the principles of life and food, the examples of laws, customs, humanity, and refinement are said to have been given and distributed to nations and to cities; You, again and again I implore and appeal to, most holy Goddesses, who dwell around those lakes and groves of Enna, and who preside over all Sicily — You whose invention and gift of corn, which You have distributed over the whole earth, inspires all nations and all races of men with reverence for Your divine power.

    Roman · public

    Ceres, Libera

    InvocationPraise
    1st c. BC

    →
69. 069

    Prayer to Ceres

    M. HORATIUS PISCINUS · HARVEST PRAYER TO CERES (MODERN RECONSTRUCTION)

    O most holy Ceres, nurturing Mother, whose sacred womb gave birth to both Gods and men; You, Vervactor, who first yoked the oxen and placed the ploughshare to virgin soil; You, Reparator, who first prepared furrows in fallow land; You, Imporcitor, who first made wide our furrows; You, Insitor, who first cast Your bounty on the earth and taught the seed to grow; Obarator, Sarritor, Subruncinator, and You, Sterculinia, who first cared for crops; You, Flora, who make the grain to bear fruit; You, Messitor, who first set scythe to grain stalks; You, Convector, who first spread grain on the sacred harvest floor; You, Noduterentor, who first showed us how to thresh, and You, most holy Ceres, whose very breath separates the white chaff from the golden grain; You, Conditor and Tutilina, who guard the grain in storage; You, Promitor, who first milled the grain and distributed its flour for our daily bread; You, eternal savior, Ceres, lavishing Your bounty upon me and mine, to You, flaxen-haired Ceres, gladly I give thanks and praise, and, from the little I have, to You I willingly make an offering. Accept these, the first fruits of my fields. May my offering incline You more towards me. May You ever nourish me and mine with Your bounty, O most holy and nurturing Mother, gentle Ceres.

    Roman · ritual

    Ceres, Flora, Earth

    InvocationGratitudeDedicationPraise
    →
70. 070

    Prayer to Diana

    CATULLUS · CARMINA · 34

    Diana, in faith, we are pure girls and boys, allow us to sing to You. Diana, magnificent child of still greater Jove, whose mother Latona gave You birth in an olive grove on Delos. Lady of the Mountains who runs over hills and through dark forests, over the wild rough hill country and through the tall grass of hidden valleys, in mountain pastures cut by roaring streams. Women in the pain of childbirth call you Lucina. You are Trivia, goddess of witches. You are Luna, the luminous moon. Monthly is measured the progress of Your journey through the year while You fill the rustic homes of good farmers with the fruits of the earth. By whatsoever holy name it pleases You, from antiquity have You accepted our customary offerings, preserve in good faith the children of Romulus as ever You graced our ancestors.

    Roman · ritual

    Diana

    PraiseInvocationPetition
    1st c. BC

    →
71. 071

    Prayer to Diana

    HORACE · CARMINA · 3.22.1-8

    Guardian of hills and forest groves, Virgin, whom young mothers thrice invoke at childbirth, listen and deliver them from death. Triple goddess, to You I dedicate this pine tree that now overhangs my villa and each year the blood of a wild boar, who ponders an oblique thrust, I will gladly give to its roots as drink.

    Roman · personal

    Diana

    InvocationDedicationPetition
    Augustan

    →
72. 072

    Prayer to Diana and Apollo

    HORACE · CARMEN SAECULARE · 1-4; 13-16; 69-72

    O shining Phoebe and forest Diana, Lucidum, shining ornaments of the sky, ever gentle and refined, O sacred brows, give us what we pray for now. Gentle Moon, Ilithyia, Lucina, by whatever name you wish to be called, Gentalis, watch over mothers, may You give them gentle deliveries.

    Roman · ritual

    Diana, Apollo

    PetitionInvocationPraise
    Augustan

    →
73. 073

    Prayer to Diana

    VIRGIL · ECLOGUES · 4.8-10

    Only do You, at the boy's birth, in whom a golden race now arises the world over, and the men of iron first begin to pass away, You alone favor him, chaste Lucina; indeed Your own Apollo reigns.

    Roman · literary

    Diana

    PetitionInvocation
    Augustan

    →
74. 074

    Prayer to Apollo and Aesculapius

    QUINTUS SERENUS SAMMONICUS · LIBER MEDICINALIS · Praefatio

    Phoebus Apollo, bearer of health, for You we compose our song, and favorably promote Your discoveries. With Your healing arts, You lead life back when it is withdrawn from us and recall us from joining the Manes in Heaven. You who formerly dwelt in the temples of Aegea, Pergamum, and Epidaurum, and who drove off the Python from Your peaceful house at Delphi, sought a temple at Rome to Your glory, by expelling the foul presence of illness. Come to me now as each time You have fondly strengthen me when often You were called, and may You be present in all that is set out in this book.

    Roman · ritual

    Apollo, Aesculapius

    InvocationPetitionPraise
    2nd-3rd c. AD

    →
75. 075

    Prayer to Apollo

    VIRGIL · AENEID · 3.85-89

    Grant us our own, Lord of Thymbra, grant the tired and worn, and their children, a city behind defensive walls in a tamed land. Safeguard a new Troy, built by those Trojan sons who escaped the Greeks and severe Achilles. Who now must I follow? Where do you urge me to go? Grant, Father, a sign, and flow into our souls.

    Roman · literary

    Apollo

    PetitionInvocation
    Augustan

    →
76. 076

    Prayer to Apollo and Hecate

    VIRGIL · AENEID · 6.55-77

    O Phoebus Apollo, who always pitied Troy of its grave hardship, you who guided the hand of Paris and his Dardanian missile to the body of Acacus' son, You who led me to penetrate all the seas that wash upon mighty shores — let Troy's ill fortune have followed us thus far (and no further). You most holy Diviner of future events, I ask only for what fate has allotted me, grant that the sons of Teucria with their wandering gods and storm tossed spirits of Troy may settle in Latium. Then to Apollo and Hecate I shall erect temples in marble and establish feast days celebrated in Apollo's name. Do not commit your songs only to the leaves, that they may swirl about as the sport of whirling winds, but sing them, I pray, with your own lips for us.

    Roman · literary

    Apollo, Hecate

    PetitionDedicationInvocation
    Augustan

    →
77. 077

    Prayer to Asclepius

    ANONYMOUS (INSCRIPTION FROM THE SHRINE OF ASCLEPIUS AT EPIDAURUS) · GREEK LYRIC (CAMPBELL, VOL. V) · fr. 937

    High-skilled Asklepios; and summon the two Dioskouroi and the august Kharites and glorious Mousai and kindly Moirai and unwearied Helios and Selene at her full and all the signs with which heaven is crowned. Greetings, all you immortal gods everlasting and immortal goddesses!

    Greek · hymn

    Asclepius, the Dioscuri, the Charites, the Muses, the Moirai, Helios, Selene

    Invocation
    Greek (BC, exact date uncertain)

    →
78. 078

    Hymn to Aphrodite

    ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 5

    Mousa, tell me the deeds of golden Aphrodite Kypria, who stirs up sweet passion in the gods and subdues the tribes of mortal men and birds that fly in air and all the many creatures that the dry land rears, and all the sea: all these love the deeds of rich-crowned Kythereia... Hail, goddess, queen of well-builded Kypros! With you have I begun; now I will turn me to another hymn.

    Greek · hymn

    Aphrodite

    InvocationPraise
    archaic Greek (7th-4th c. BC)

    →
79. 079

    Hymn to Aphrodite

    ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 10

    Of Kythereia, born in Kypros, I will sing. She gives kindly gifts to men: smiles are ever on her lovely face, and lovely is the brightness that plays over it. Hail, goddess, queen of well-built Salamis and sea-girt Kypros; grant me a cheerful song. And now I will remember you and another song also.

    Greek · hymn

    Aphrodite

    InvocationPetition
    archaic Greek (7th-4th c. BC)

    →
80. 080

    Hymn to Demeter and Persephone

    ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 13

    I begin to sing of rich-haired Demeter, awful goddess, of her and of her daughter lovely Persephone. Hail, goddess! Keep this city safe, and govern my song.

    Greek · hymn

    Demeter, Persephone

    InvocationPetition
    archaic Greek (7th-4th c. BC)

    →
81. 081

    Hymn to Dionysus and Semele

    ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 1

    Be favourable, O Insewn, Inspirer of frenzied women! We singers sing of you as we begin and as we end a strain, and none forgetting you may call holy song to mind. And so, farewell, Dionysos Insewn with your mother Semele whom men call Thyone.

    Greek · hymn

    Dionysus, Semele

    InvocationPraise
    archaic Greek (7th-4th c. BC)

    →
82. 082

    Hymn to Dionysus and Semele

    ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 7

    I sing of Dionysos, the son of glorious Semele... Hail, child of fair-faced Semele! He who forgets you can in no wise order sweet song.

    Greek · hymn

    Dionysus, Semele

    InvocationPraise
    archaic Greek (7th-4th c. BC)

    →
83. 083

    Hymn to Hera

    ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 12

    I sing of golden-throned Hera whom Rhea bare. Queen of the Immortals is she, surpassing all in beauty: she is the sister and wife of loud-thundering Zeus — the glorious one whom all the blessed throughout high Olympos reverence and honour even as Zeus who delights in thunder.

    Greek · hymn

    Hera, Zeus, Rhea

    InvocationPraise
    archaic Greek (7th-4th c. BC)

    →
84. 084

    Hymn to Hermes

    ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 4

    Mousa, sing of Hermes, the son of Zeus and Maia, lord of Kyllene and Arkadia rich in flocks, the luck-bringing, messenger of the gods whom Maia bare, the rich-tressed Nymphe, when she was joined in love with Zeus... Zeus commanded that glorious Hermes should be lord over all birds of omen and grim-eyed lions, and boars with gleaming tusks, and over dogs and all flocks that the wide earth nourishes, and over all sheep; also that he only should be the appointed messenger to Hades, who, though he takes no gift, shall give him no mean prize... He consorts with all mortals and immortals: a little he profits, but continually throughout the dark night he cozens the tribes of mortal men. And so, farewell, Son of Zeus and Maia; but I will remember you and another song also.

    Greek · hymn

    Hermes, Zeus, Maia

    InvocationPraise
    archaic Greek (7th-4th c. BC)

    →
85. 085

    Hymn to Hermes

    ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 18

    I sing of Hermes Kyllenios, Argeiphontes, lord of Kyllene and Arkadia rich in flocks, luck-bringing messenger of the deathless gods. He was born of Maia, the daughter of Atlas, when she had made love with Zeus — a shy goddess she. Ever she avoided the throng of the blessed gods and lived in a shadowy cave, and there Kronion used to lie with the rich-tressed Nymphe at dead of night, while white-armed Hera lay bound in sweet sleep: and neither deathless god nor mortal man knew it. And so hail to you, Son of Zeus and Maia; with you I have begun: now I will turn to another song! Hail, Hermes, giver of grace, guide, and giver of good things!

    Greek · hymn

    Hermes, Zeus, Maia

    InvocationPraise
    archaic Greek (7th-4th c. BC)

    →
86. 086

    Hymn to Dionysus Amphietes

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 53

    Khthonion Dionysos, hear my prayer, rise vigilant with Nymphai of lovely hair: great Bakkhos Amphietos, annual God, who laid asleep in Persephone's abode, her sacred seat, didst lull to drowsy rest the rites triennial and the sacred feast; which roused again by thee, in graceful ring, thy nurses round thee mystic anthems sing; when briskly dancing with rejoicing powers, thou movest in concert with the circling hours. Come blessed, fruitful, horned, and divine, and on this sacred consecration propitious shine; accept the pious incense and the prayer, and make prolific the holy fruits thy care.

    Greek · hymn

    Dionysus, Persephone, the Nymphs

    InvocationPetition
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

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87. 087

    Hymn to Asclepius

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 67

    Great Asklepios, skilled to heal mankind, all-ruling Paian, and physician kind; whose arts medicinal can alone assuage diseases dire, and stop their dreadful rage. Strong, lenient God, regard my suppliant prayer, bring gentle health, adorned with lovely hair; convey the means of mitigating pain, and raging deadly pestilence restrain. O power all-flourishing, abundant, bright, Apollon's honoured offspring, God of light; husband of blameless Hygeia, the constant foe of dread disease, the minister of woe: come, blessed saviour, human health defend, and to the mortal life afford a prosperous end.

    Greek · hymn

    Asclepius, Apollo, Hygieia

    InvocationPetition
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

    →
88. 088

    Hymn to the Charites

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 60

    Hear me, illustrious Kharites, mighty named, from Zeus descended, and Eunomia famed, Thalia and Aglaia fair and bright, and blest Euphrosyne, whom joys delight: mothers of mirth; all lovely to the view, pleasure abundant, pure, belongs to you: various, for ever flourishing and fair, desired by mortals, much invoked in prayer; circling, dark-eyed, delightful to mankind, come, and you mystics' bless with bounteous mind.

    Greek · hymn

    the Charites, Aglaia, Euphrosyne, Thalia

    InvocationPetition
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

    →
89. 089

    Hymn to Mother Antaia

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 41

    Basileia Antaia, of celebrated name, from whom both men and Gods immortal came; who widely wandering once, oppressed with grief, in Eleusis' valleys foundest relief, discovering Persephone thy daughter pure in dread Aides, dismal and obscure. A sacred youth while through the earth you stray, Dysaulos Iakkhos, attending leader of the way; the holy marriage Khthonios Zeus relating, while oppressed with grief you rove. Come, much invoked, and to these rites inclined, thy mystic suppliant bless, with favouring mind.

    Greek · hymn

    Demeter, Persephone, Iacchus, Dis Pater

    InvocationPetition
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

    →
90. 090

    Hymn to Dionysus Bassareus

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 45

    Come, blessed Dionysos, various-named, bull-faced, begot from thunder, Bakkhos famed. Bassaros God, of universal might, whom swords and blood and sacred rage delight: in heaven rejoicing, mad, loud-sounding God, furious inspirer, bearer of the rod: by Gods revered, who dwellest with humankind, propitious come, with much rejoicing mind.

    Greek · hymn

    Dionysus

    Invocation
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

    →
91. 091

    Hymn to Hephaestus

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 66

    Strong, mighty Hephaistos, bearing splendid light, unwearied fire, with flaming torrents bright: strong-handed, deathless, and of art divine, pure element, a portion of the world is thine: all-taming artist, all-diffusive power, 'tis thine, supreme, all substance to devour: aither, sun, moon, and stars, light pure and clear, for these thy lucid parts to men appear. To thee all dwellings, cities, tribes belong, diffused through mortal bodies, rich and strong. Hear, blessed power, to holy rites incline, and all propitious on the incense shine: suppress the rage of fire's unwearied frame, and still preserve our nature's vital flame.

    Greek · hymn

    Hephaestus

    InvocationPetition
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

    →
92. 092

    Hymn to Hera and Zeus

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 16

    O royal Hera, of majestic mien, aerial-formed, divine, Zeus' blessed queen, throned in the bosom of cerulean air, the race of mortals is thy constant care. The cooling gales thy power alone inspires, which nourish life, which every life desires. Mother of showers and winds, from thee alone, producing all things, mortal life is known: all natures share thy temperament divine, and universal sway alone is thine, with sounding blasts of wind, the swelling sea and rolling rivers roar when shook by thee. Come, blessed Goddess, famed almighty queen, with aspect kind, rejoicing and serene.

    Greek · hymn

    Hera, Zeus

    InvocationPetition
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

    →
93. 093

    Hymn to Hermes

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 28

    Hermes, draw near, and to my prayer incline, messenger of Zeus, and Maia's son divine; prefect of contests, ruler of mankind, with heart almighty, and a prudent mind. Celestial messenger of various skill, whose powerful arts could watchful Argos kill. With winged feet 'tis thine through air to course, O friend of man, and prophet of discourse; great life-supporter, to rejoice is thine in arts gymnastic, and in fraud divine. With power endued all language to explain, of care the loosener, and the source of gain. Whose hand contains of blameless peace the rod, Korykion, blessed, profitable God. Of various speech, whose aid in works we find, and in necessities to mortal kind. Dire weapon of the tongue, which men revere, be present, Hermes, and thy suppliant hear; assist my works, conclude my life with peace, give graceful speech, and memory's increase.

    Greek · hymn

    Hermes, Zeus, Maia

    InvocationPetition
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

    →
94. 094

    Hymn to Dionysus Liknites

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 46

    Liknitos Dionysos, bearer of the vine, thee I invoke to bless these rites divine: florid and gay, of Nymphai the blossom bright, and of fair Aphrodite, Goddess of delight. 'Tis thine mad footsteps with mad Nymphai to beat, dancing through groves with lightly leaping feet: from Zeus' high counsels nursed by Persephoneia, and born the dread of all the powers divine. Come, blessed God, regard thy suppliant's voice, propitious come, and in these rites rejoice.

    Greek · hymn

    Dionysus, Aphrodite, Persephone, the Nymphs

    Invocation
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

    →
95. 095

    Hymn to Dionysus Lysios

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 50

    Hear me, Zeus' son, blest Bakkhos, God of wine, born of two mothers, honoured and divine; Lysios Euios Bakkhos, various-named, of gods the offspring, secret, holy, famed. Fertile and nourishing, whose liberal care augments the fruit that banishes despair. Sounding, magnanimous, Lenaios power, of various-formed, medicinal, holy flower: mortals in thee repose from labour find, delightful charm, desired by all mankind. Fair-haired Euion, Bromios, joyful God, Lysios, insanely raging with the leafy rod. To these our rites, benignant power, incline, when favouring men, or when on Gods you shine; be present to thy mystics' suppliant prayer, rejoicing come, and fruits abundant bear.

    Greek · hymn

    Dionysus

    InvocationPetition
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

    →
96. 096

    Hymn to Dionysus Perikionios

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 47

    Bakkhos Perikionios, hear my prayer, who madest the house of Kadmos once thy care, with matchless force his pillars twining round, when burning thunders shook the solid ground, in flaming, sounding torrents borne along, propped by thy grasp indissolubly strong. Come, mighty Bakkhos, to these rites inclined, and bless thy suppliants with rejoicing mind.

    Greek · hymn

    Dionysus

    InvocationPetition
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

    →
97. 097

    Hymn to Poseidon

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 17

    Hear, Poseidon, ruler of the sea profound, whose liquid grasp begirds the solid ground; who, at the bottom of the stormy main, dark and deep-bosomed holdest thy watery reign. Thy awful hand the brazen trident bears, and sea's utmost bound thy will reveres. Thee I invoke, whose steeds the foam divide, from whose dark locks the briny waters glide; whose voice, loud sounding through the roaring deep, drives all its billows in a raging heap; when fiercely riding through the boiling sea, thy hoarse command the trembling waves obey. Earth-shaking, dark-haired God, the liquid plains, the third division, fate to thee ordains. 'Tis thine, cerulean daimon, to survey, well-pleased, the monsters of the ocean play. Confirm earth's basis, and with prosperous gales waft ships along, and swell the spacious sails; add gentle peace, and fair-haired health beside, and pour abundance in a blameless tide.

    Greek · hymn

    Poseidon

    InvocationPetition
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

    →
98. 098

    Hymn to Dionysus Trieterikos

    ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 52

    Bakkhos phrenetic, much named, blessed, divine, bull-horned, Lernaion, bearer of the vine; from fire descended, ranging, Nysion king, from whom initial ceremonies spring. Liknitos, pure and fiery bright, prudent, Eubouleos crown-bearer, wandering in the night; nursed in Mount Mero, all-mysterious power, triple, ineffable, Zeus' secret flower; Erikepaios, first-begotten named, of Gods the father and the offspring famed. Bearing a sceptre, leader of the choir, whose dancing feet phrenetic furies fire, when the triennial band thou dost inspire, Omadion, captor, of a fiery light, born of two mothers, Amphietos bright; love, mountain-wandering, clothed with skins of deer, Paian golden-rayed, whom all revere. Great annual god of grapes, the ivy crowned, Bassaros, lovely, virginlike, renowned. Come, blessed power, regard thy mystic's voice, propitious come, and in these rites rejoice.

    Greek · hymn

    Dionysus

    Invocation
    Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

    →
99. 099

    Prayer to Ceres

    OVID · METAMORPHOSES · 5.341-343

    Ceres first turned the earth with the curved plough; she first gave corn and crops to bless the land; she first gave laws; all things are Ceres' gift. Of Ceres I must sing. Oh that my song may hymn the goddess' praise as she deserves, a goddess who deserved high hymns of praise.

    Roman · hymn

    Ceres

    InvocationPraise
    early 1st c. AD

    →
100. 100

     Prayer to Demeter

     ANONYMOUS · GREEK LYRIC V (CAMPBELL), SCOLIA · fr. 885

     I sing of the mother of Ploutos, Demeter Olympia, in the garland-wearing season, and of you, Persephone, child of Zeus: greetings, both! Tend the city well.

     Greek · hymn

     Demeter, Persephone, Plutus

     InvocationPetition
     Greek (BC)

     →
101. 101

     Hymn to Artemis and Apollo

     ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 9

     Mousa, sing of Artemis, sister of the far-shooter, Parthenos the virgin who delights in arrows, who was fostered with Apollon. She waters her horses from Meles deep in reeds, and swiftly drives her all-golden chariot through Smyrna to vine-clad Klaros where Apollon god of the silver bow, sits waiting for far-shooting delighter in arrows. And so hail to you, Artemis, in my song and to all goddesses as well. Of you first I sing and with you I begin; now that I have begun with you, I will turn to another song.

     Greek · hymn

     Artemis, Apollo

     InvocationPraise
     archaic Greek (7th-4th c. BC)

     →
102. 102

     Hymn to Asclepius and Apollo

     ANONYMOUS (HOMERIC CORPUS) · HOMERIC HYMNS · 16

     I begin to sing of Asklepios, son of Apollon and healer of sicknesses. In the Dotian plain fair Koronis, daughter of King Phlegyas, bare him, a great joy to men, a soother of cruel pangs. And so hail to you, lord: in my song I make my prayer to thee!

     Greek · hymn

     Asclepius, Apollo

     InvocationPraise
     archaic Greek (7th-4th c. BC)

     →
103. 103

     Hymn to Ares

     ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 65

     Magnanimous, unconquered, boisterous Ares, in darts rejoicing, and in bloody wars; fierce and untamed, whose mighty power can make the strongest walls from their foundations shake: mortal-destroying king, defiled with gore, pleased with war's dreadful and tumultuous roar. Thee human blood, and swords, and spears delight, and the dire ruin of mad savage fight. Stay furious contests, and avenging strife, whose works with woe embitter human life; to lovely Kypris and to Lyaios yield, for arms exchange the labours of the field; encourage peace, to gentle works inclined, and give abundance, with benignant mind.

     Greek · hymn

     Ares

     InvocationPetition
     Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

     →
104. 104

     Hymn to Artemis

     ANONYMOUS (ORPHIC CORPUS) · ORPHIC HYMNS · 36

     Hear me, Zeus' daughter, celebrated queen, Bromia and Titanis, of a noble mien: in darts rejoicing, and on all to shine, torch-bearing Goddess, Diktynna divine. Over births presiding, and thyself a maid, to labour pangs imparting ready aid: dissolver of the zone, and wrinkled care, fierce huntress, glorying in the sylvan war: swift in the course, in dreadful arrows skilled, wandering by night, rejoicing in the field: of manly form, erect, of bounteous mind, illustrious Daimon, nurse of humankind: immortal, earthly, bane of monsters fell, 'tis thine, blest maid, on woody mounts to dwell: foe of the stag, whom woods and dogs delight, in endless youth you flourish fair and bright. O universal queen, august, divine, a various form, Kydonian power, is thine. Dread guardian Goddess, with benignant mind, auspicious come, to mystic rites inclined; give earth a store of beauteous fruits to bear, send gentle peace, and health with lovely hair, and to the mountains drive disease and care.

     Greek · hymn

     Artemis

     InvocationPetition
     Hellenistic to Roman imperial (3rd c. BC – 2nd c. AD)

     →
105. 105

     Prayer to Mars

     HORACE · CARMINA · 1.2.35-40

     Father Mars, too long have You neglected to look upon Your nation and upon Your grandchildren. Alas, for too long have You been absent in the game of war. Recall Your delight in the clash of battle; come, Mars, take pride once more in the sight of polished Roman helmets gleaming, and how the battle hardened legions meet the grimacing Maurians in battle. Come now, we pray.

     Roman · personal

     Mars

     PetitionInvocation
     late 1st c. BC

     →
106. 106

     Prayer to Mars

     OVID · FASTI · 3.1-2

     Bellicose Mars, lay aside for awhile Your round bronze shield and spear. Mars, be present and let loose from its helmet Your sleek, shining hair.

     Roman · personal

     Mars

     Invocation
     early 1st c. AD

     →
107. 107

     Prayer to Apollo

     LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Wedding Ceremony — Prayer to Apollon

     I remember and do not forget Apollon Hekateios. Come, O' Blessed Paian, bright Phoibos, IE IE, bestower of bliss, Thou who sees the expanse of the sky and the happy earth from up high. From ages past, it is a sacred tradition to invoke You. Come to me who prays and disperse dread disease and suffering.

     Greek · ritual

     Apollo

     InvocationPetition
     →
108. 108

     Prayer to Asclepius

     LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Health Ceremony — Hymn to Asklepios

     Asklepios, Healer of all, who dispels the diseased sufferings of people. Mighty, Soothing, Healer of disease, honoured child of Phoibos Apollon, terminate dire illness. Come O' Blessed Saviour, and grant health to your supplicant and an end to pain.

     Greek · ritual

     Asclepius

     PetitionInvocation
     →
109. 109

     Prayer to Demeter

     LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY (ADAPTED FROM ORPHIC) · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Ceremony for Luck — Hymn to Demetra

     O' Dio, mother of all, respected Goddess, Demetra, giver of Happiness. O' Goddess, bringer of wealth, who provides everything and rejoices in peace, nurturing Goddess of many children, much respected, multi-formed, prolific. Come, blessed and pure, bringing peace, and desirable prosperity, blessed wealth and the Noble Hygeia.

     Greek · ritual

     Demeter

     InvocationPetition
     →
110. 110

     Prayer to Apollo

     LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Health Ceremony — Invocation of the Healing Gods

     Come, O' Healing Gods, Apollon, Asklepios, Much Desired Hygeia, and you, Telesphoros. May you terminate dire diseases granting health to our body and mind.

     Greek · ritual

     Apollo, Asclepius, Hygieia, Telesphorus

     InvocationPetition
     →
111. 111

     Prayer to Hecate

     LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Enata — 9th day ceremony — Prayer to Hekate

     I call upon Hekate Khthonia, the saffron-robed, who cares for the souls of the dead. Queen and key-bearer of the whole world. Khaire Hekate Prothyraia, Almighty Maiden Ênodia, O' Goddess, may you lead the soul of [name of the deceased] on the illuminated paths of the Gods.

     Greek · ritual

     Hecate

     PetitionInvocation
     →
112. 112

     Prayer to Hera

     LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY (ADAPTED FROM ORPHIC) · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Ceremony for Luck — Hymn to Hera

     Hera, Queen of all, blissful wife of Zeus, air-formed and seated in dark blue bays, granting to mortals the gentle soul-nurturing breeze. All begetting, Mother of rain, tender of the winds. No living thing knows the complete nature of life without you, because you partake in everything merged with the sacred air. You alone dominate all and rule over everything. Blissful Goddess, renowned queen of all, may you come with goodwill to our solemn ceremony.

     Greek · ritual

     Hera

     InvocationPraise
     →
113. 113

     Prayer to Hygieia

     LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Health Ceremony — Hymn to Hygeia

     Come, O' Blessed Hygeia, much desired, beloved Queen of all. All mortal diseases are destroyed by You, and from You every home blossoms and is filled with joy, even the crafts flourish from you, for it is You that people desire, O' Queen, ever-flourishing, much-praised, repose of mortals. Come, Goddess, without You all else is futile, save your supplicant from ill-fated disease.

     Greek · ritual

     Hygieia

     PetitionInvocation
     →
114. 114

     Prayer to Plouton

     LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Burial Ceremony — Prayer to Plouton

     O' Plouton, who holds the keys to the earth, Zeus Khthonios, wielder of the sceptre. You who reigns over mortals through death. You alone award deeds, revealed and unrevealed, You who exults in the sacred venerations. I call on You to benevolently receive [name of deceased] in your domain.

     Greek · ritual

     Plouton

     PetitionInvocation
     →
115. 115

     First Hymn to Telesphorus

     ANONYMOUS (INSCRIPTION FROM ATHENS) · INSCRIPTIONES GRAECAE II³ 4, 939 · ll. 19-29

     O young imperishable shoot […] Telesphoros, your excellences […] all-wise, [son?] of the god who looses pain […] […] deathless, grief-banishing […] the all-tongued races of mortals — raise them up out of their toils, you two,

     Greek · ritual

     Telesphorus, Asclepius

     InvocationPetitionPraise
     2nd-3rd c. AD

     →
116. 116

     Prayer to Tyche and Artemis

     LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Ceremony for Luck — Hymn to Tyche

     Come Tyche, I invite you, benevolent ruler, hear my prayer; kind traveller of all roads, in wealthy estates, the reigning Artemis, the renowned, born of Euvouleos' blood, possessing undefeatable glory, sepulchral, meandering, famed among men; From You flows the diversity of mortal life, for some, you provide a wealthy multitude of possessions, and to others dread poverty, welling up as angry outrage in the soul. Goddess, I plead for you to bring your goodwill, filling our lives with well-being and wealthy gifts. And I plead with You, O' Goddess, come with benevolence into our lives, bringing happiness and wealth. O' Benevolent Goddess Tyche, foster good fortune and bring about the desired results.

     Greek · ritual

     Tyche, Artemis

     InvocationPetition
     →
117. 117

     Prayer to Artemis

     ANAKREON TYIOS · PRAYER TO ARTEMIS · fr. 1 Bergk (= 348 PMG)

     To you I kneel O' deer-huntress, blonde daughter of Zeus, lady of the animals, Artemis, now surely alongside the currents of the Litheos, you look after the brave men of the city, and you rejoice because you do not herd unknowing citizens.

     Greek · personal

     Artemis

     PetitionInvocation
     2nd c. BC

     →
118. 118

     Prayer to Hecate

     ANONYMOUS / ORPHIC TRADITION · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Full Moon Ceremony — Hymn to Hekate

     I praise Hekate of the crossroads; venerable Enodia, heavenly, khthonian and of the sea; saffron-robed, of the grave, entwined in Bakkhic revelries with the souls of the dead; Perseia, the lonely, rejoicing with the deer; nocturnal, invincible queen, accompanied by dogs and the shrieking of beasts; she of the irresistible countenance, armoured, bull-drawn, key-bearing queen of all the world; ruler, nymph, nurturer, you who frequent the mountains, I plead with you, Maiden, attend this holy ceremony with joyful disposition and good intent towards the worshippers.

     Greek · ritual

     Hecate

     InvocationPraise
     →
119. 119

     Prayer to Helios and Hecate

     SOPHOCLES (ADAPTED) · RHIZOTOMOI (LOST) · Triakas Ceremony — Invocation of Helios and Hekate

     Lord Helios, sacred fire, O' spear of Enodia, which She wields as She journeys to Olympos and while travelling amongst the sacred crossroads of the Earth. She who is crowned with oaken wreaths and coils of serpents, bless on this last day of the month the offerings which I am about to prepare for the venerable ancestors and keep all evil away from us.

     Greek · ritual

     Helios, Hecate

     InvocationPetitionProtection
     5th c. BC (Sophocles) — adapted

     →
120. 120

     Prayer to Hermes

     LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Noumenia — Ode to Hermes

     Heed my prayer, Hermes of the roads, Zeus' Messenger, You who has an almighty heart, dear friend of mortals. With this modest libation, I evoke Thee to come as Protector of this Oikos and our land, swift-footed Messenger of the Will of the Gods!

     Greek · ritual

     Hermes

     InvocationPetition
     →
121. 121

     Prayer to the Korybantes

     LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Purification Ceremony

     I call on the great eternal Khthonian king Koryvant', the blessed; Arean and terrifying youth of the night, who dispels evil fears, helper of the imagination, wandering Koryvanta, multi-formed king, dual natured god, many-formed, bloodstained, blood-drenched brother, you who, with the consent of Zeus, changed your pure body, assuming beast-like and serpentine form: Come, Blessed, hear this call and dispel all grievances, chase away unhealthy imaginings and the undesirable needs of the soul.

     Greek · ritual

     the Korybantes

     InvocationProtection
     →
122. 122

     Prayer to the Kouretes

     LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Purification Ceremony

     Bronze-sounding Kouretes, heavenly, and earthly, and of the waters, much blessed, life giving spirits, glorious saviours of the world, you who remove the dangers from peoples' lives, Immortal Kouretes, possessors of exalted arms, when coming to Earth thundering you fill the wild beasts with fear! Immortal Gods, who nurture the mortal species. O' Kouretes, noble and powerful, youths of Zeus, eternal spirits, soul nurturers, gracious saviours. I call upon you to come with good intentions, shield bearing guardians, bring harmony, perfect order, and peace. Heracles, Paionai, Epimedes, Iasios, and Ida!

     Greek · ritual

     the Kouretes

     InvocationPetitionProtection
     →
123. 123

     Prayer to Zeus

     LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Noumenia — Hymn to Zeus

     O' Zeus, Father Zeus, You are the power in the heavens, You who judges the deeds of men to be lawful or devious, and dispenses justice upon hubristic beasts. Come, O' Blessed Ktesios and Erkeios, benevolent, comforting and bearing wealth with Agathodaimon.

     Greek · ritual

     Zeus

     InvocationPetition
     →
124. 124

     Prayer to Hecate

     VIRGIL · AENEID · 4.609-612

     Nocturnal Hecate, who is called at the crossroads throughout the City, and Avenging Dirae, and Elissa's gods of the dying, hear our prayers, heed them, and direct your awful powers against those who deserve it.

     Roman · literary

     Hecate

     PetitionInvocation
     Augustan

     →
125. 125

     Prayer to Jupiter

     CICERO · DE DOMO SUA AD PONTIFICES · 144

     Jupiter Capitolinus, to You I pray, I entreat You, who the Roman people have named Optimus after Your kindness and Maximus after Your great power.

     Roman · public

     Jupiter

     InvocationPetition
     1st c. BC

     →
126. 126

     Prayer to Jupiter

     STATIUS · THEBAID · 3.470-476

     Almighty Jupiter, You are He who imparts counsel to swift wings, and You who fills birds with foreknowledge of the future, and brings to light the omens and causes that lurk within the heavens. More enriched in mind is he, for whom You, O Dictaean Jupiter, announce Your will in the favoring flights of birds. May You allow that, guided by the skies, we shall have foreknowledge of the assembly of Argive forces and their initial movements in the fight ahead.

     Roman · literary

     Jupiter

     PetitionInvocation
     1st c. AD

     →
127. 127

     Prayer to Mercury

     MANILIUS · ASTRONOMICON · 1.30ff

     Mercurius Cyllenius, principle author of all sacred knowledge, at times within Heaven, at other times travelling within the starry signs to open the celestial paths to the highest parts above and the lowest paths beneath the earth. You stitch together the stars in the empty void of space into constellations, name them and determine their course; may it have been for us to reverently use the greater powers of the universe that You make.

     Roman · literary

     Mercury

     InvocationPraise
     Augustan

     →
128. 128

     Prayer to Minerva

     CICERO · DE DOMO SUA AD PONTIFICES · 144

     O Minerva, You have always come to my aid with Your counsels, witness to the existence of my works.

     Roman · personal

     Minerva

     GratitudeInvocation
     1st c. BC

     →
129. 129

     Prayer to Minerva

     SENECA · HERCULES FURENS · 900

     To you, you alone, O warlike Pallas Minerva, I pray, friend and companion in all my toils; Tamer of Lycurgus, ivy wreathed you crossed the eastern seas, bearing the Thyrsus in your hand; and you divine twins, Apollo and Diana, hear my prayer.

     Roman · literary

     Minerva, Apollo, Diana

     InvocationPetition
     1st c. AD

     →
130. 130

     Prayer to Minerva

     OVID · FASTI · 6.652

     Come now, golden haired Minerva, to favor the task I've begun.

     Roman · literary

     Minerva

     Invocation
     Augustan

     →
131. 131

     Prayer to Neptune

     OVID · METAMORPHOSES · 8.595-598

     O Neptune, who reigns over the realm of wandering waves, Bearer of the Trident, come to our aid, I pray, and undo her father's savagery. Neptune, grant her a safe haven, or else allow her to become a place herself, to live forever as one of Your nymphs.

     Roman · literary

     Neptune

     PetitionInvocation
     Augustan

     →
132. 132

     Prayer to Venus

     HORACE · CARMINA · 1.30.1-8

     Come to us Venus, O Queen of Cnidos and Paphos, leave Cyprus, though the isle is dear to You, come instead to where the incense is thick and Glycera sings to You, that you may transfer Your home to a new shrine among us. Bring along for Your company desirous Cupid, loose-girdled Graces and Nymphs, youthful Juventus and Mercury, who without You are graceless.

     Roman · literary

     Venus

     InvocationPetition
     Augustan

     →
133. 133

     Prayer to Venus

     OVID · FASTI · 4.1

     Nurturing Venus, Mother of the twin Loves, favour me.

     Roman · literary

     Venus

     Invocation
     Augustan

     →
134. 134

     Prayer to Carmenta

     ANONYMOUS · RITUS CARMENTIS · petition prayer

     Mother, on You I call, come, stand by me, stay, and listen to my pleas. Speak to me once again, in Your own words, as You did before. I pray You put an end now to my harsh hardship, declare an end to ruinous fortune, in whose cruel snare so long have I endured, and bestow upon me peace and rest from my labors and perils.

     Roman · personal

     Carmenta

     PetitionInvocation
     modern reconstruction (Nova Roma)

     →
135. 135

     Prayer to Carmenta

     ANONYMOUS · RITUS CARMENTIS · matrons' prayer

     Accept, O Carmentis, this offering of incense. Cheerfully have Your daughters come to adorn Your shrine of matrons. Come, most venerable Goddess, appear in flowing robes and nod Your assent to the milk that is poured in your honor and the cakes piled high to await you. Bring with You every soothing song to sing; every charm to bring peace and solace. Across the seas, from distant shores, bear with You the words by which we may praise the Gods. O most merciful Mother, we pray for a blessing from Your generous and temperate right hand.

     Roman · public

     Carmenta

     InvocationPetition
     modern reconstruction (Nova Roma)

     →
136. 136

     Prayer to Hercules

     OVID · METAMORPHOSES · 15.39-40

     O Hercules, to whom twelve labors was given, help me, I pray, since you are witness to the accusations made against me.

     Roman · literary

     Hercules

     PetitionInvocation
     Augustan

     →
137. 137

     Prayer to Hercules

     STATIUS · SILVAE · 3.1.23-28

     Come hither, Hercules, who, now free of your obligations, may choose whether to live in your native Argos and spurn death as Eurystheus buried in his tomb, or whether your virtue has won you a place among the stars beneath the throne of your father Jupiter, and Hebe, better than Phrygian Ganymede, with her robe girded, offers you a cup of blessed nectar to drink, come hither, and grace this newly dedicated temple with the presence of your genius.

     Roman · literary

     Hercules

     InvocationDedication
     1st c. AD

     →
138. 138

     Prayer to Hercules

     VIRGIL · AENEID · 8.301-302

     Hail, Hercules, true son of Jove, an added Glory for the Gods are you. Come now, and dance at your holy rites with skillful feet.

     Roman · literary

     Hercules

     InvocationPraise
     Augustan

     →
139. 139

     Prayer to Janus

     AUSONIUS · PRECATIONES · Precatio consulis designati, 1-2

     Janus, come! The New Year is here, come and renew the sun.

     Roman · personal

     Janus

     Invocation
     4th c. AD

     →
140. 140

     Prayer to Janus

     HORACE · SATIRES · 2.6.20-21

     Father Matutinus, or else Janus, if You so prefer to hear, regarded by men as the beginning of works and life's labors, so does it please the Gods, may You begin my song.

     Roman · literary

     Janus

     Invocation
     Augustan

     →
141. 141

     Prayer to Carmenta

     ANONYMOUS · RITUS CARMENTIS · ritual opening

     Come, be present, Carmentis. May Your sisters Porrima and Postvorta attend You. With joyful mind come, Mother of Arcadian Evander.

     Roman · ritual

     Carmenta, Porrima, Postvorta

     Invocation
     modern reconstruction (Nova Roma)

     →
142. 142

     Prayer to Bacchus

     TIBULLUS · ELEGIAE · 3.6.1-4

     Splendid Liber, draw near to me! With your forever mystical vine, and your ivy bound head, carry off my sorrows, in the same manner as you have so often used wine's healing powers to overcome the pangs of love.

     Roman · literary

     Bacchus

     PetitionInvocation
     1st c. BC

     →
143. 143

     Prayer to Bacchus

     VIRGIL · GEORGICS · 2.2-8

     Now shall I sing of you, Bacchus. Without you there would be no woodland or thicket, or slow growing olive grove. Come hither, O Lenaean Father, all things here beckon to be nurtured by your many gifts, the autumn vineshoots laden the countryside with blossoms, the vintage grape harvest foams plentiful to the lips of the wine vats. Hasten, O Lenaean Father, come and, stripped down, tinge your naked feet in new wine must with me.

     Roman · literary

     Bacchus

     InvocationPraise
     Augustan

     →
144. 144

     Prayer to Ceres

     VIRGIL · GEORGICS · 1.7-12

     Liber and gentle Ceres, if by your gifts the earth once changed, exchanging Chaonian acorns for rich heads of grain, and receiving your invention of wine from Acheloian cups, and you Fauns, your divine presence an aid for rustics, bring dancing feet, as when Dryad girls frolic with Fauns, of your gifts I sing.

     Roman · literary

     Ceres, Bacchus, the Fauns

     InvocationPraise
     Augustan

     →
145. 145

     Prayer to Diana and Isis

     APULEIUS · METAMORPHOSES · 11.2

     Diana, who are the sister of the God Phoebus, who nourishes so many people by the generation of beasts, and are now adored at the sacred places of Ephesus — You who is worshipped in divers manners, and does illuminate all the borders of the earth by Your feminine shape, You which nourishes all the fruits of the world by Your vigor and force; with whatsoever name or fashion it is lawful to call upon You, I pray You end my great travail and misery, and deliver me from the wretched fortune, which has for so long a time pursued me. Grant peace and rest if it please You to reply to my entreaties, for I have endured too much labor and peril.

     Roman · literary

     Diana, Isis

     PetitionInvocation
     2nd c. AD

     →
146. 146

     Prayer to Diana

     HORACE · CARMINA · 1.21.1; 5-8

     Tender virgins recite their prayers to You, Diana, You who delight in dark rivers and quivering forest foliage, wherever You may be, atop the chilly height of Algidus, or in the Erymanthic woods, or verdant Cragus.

     Roman · literary

     Diana

     InvocationPraise
     Augustan

     →
147. 147

     Prayer to Diana and Venus

     LAEVIUS · CARMINA · fr. 26; p. 292

     Therefore adoring You as though You were nurturing Venus Herself, whether You are female, or whether You are male, even so, Illuminating the Night, You are a nurturing Moon.

     Roman · literary

     Diana, Venus

     PraiseInvocation
     2nd-1st c. BC

     →
148. 148

     Prayer to Diana

     OVID · FASTI · 3.255-256

     Diana Lucina, You have given us light, attend our birthing prayers.

     Roman · personal

     Diana

     PetitionInvocation
     Augustan

     →
149. 149

     Prayer to Diana

     OVID · METAMORPHOSES · 5.618-620

     Help me, Diana, for I am overwhelmed. Diana, I am Your servant, Your arms-bearer, to whom You have often given Your bow to carry, and who filled Your quiver with arrows.

     Roman · literary

     Diana

     PetitionInvocation
     Augustan

     →
150. 150

     Prayer to Diana

     VIRGIL · AENEID · 1.329-330

     Whoever you may be, whether Diana or a Nymph, may You favor us and lighten our labors.

     Roman · literary

     Diana

     PetitionInvocation
     →
151. 151

     Prayer to Diana

     SILIUS ITALICUS · PUNICA · 13.136

     Come favorably, Diana, daughter of Latona, onto our undertaking.

     Roman · literary

     Diana

     InvocationPetition
     1st c. AD

     →
152. 152

     Prayer to Diana and Juno

     TIBULLUS · ELEGIAE · 3.12.1-8

     Accept, O natal Juno, this offering of incense. Cheerfully, O Lucina, she has come to adorn Your shrine of matrons. Come, most chaste Queen of Heaven, appear in royal robes and nod Your assent to the wine that is poured and the cakes piled high to await You. With You bring every herb for ending pain, and soothing songs to sing; across the ocean from distant shores bear such herbs as will cure our most severe ills, or whatever else we most fear. Rack this girl no more with pain, or cruelly delay her birthing.

     Roman · personal

     Diana, Juno

     PetitionInvocationDedication
     1st c. BC

     →
153. 153

     Prayer to Diana

     VIRGIL · AENEID · 9.404-405

     You, O divine daughter of Latona, Glory of the Stars and Guardian of the Sacred Groves, be present, Diana, that You may succor us who labor.

     Roman · literary

     Diana

     InvocationPetition
     Augustan

     →
154. 154

     Prayer to Sol and Apollo

     CLAUDIUS CLAUDIANUS · IN OLYBII ET PROBINI FRATRES CONSULES PANEGYRICUS · 1-7

     O Sol, whose light embraces the world, you orbit inexhaustible, forever returning, your face glowing on each day, your horses harnessed as a team to drive your chariot, with manes braided pleasantly they rise high, passing over rose-red clouds as you rein their frothing fires. Already yet another year begins, measured by the footsteps of brothers, who as new consuls gladly offer their prayers and vows.

     Roman · public

     Sol, Apollo

     InvocationPraise
     4th-5th c. AD

     →
155. 155

     Prayer to Apollo

     OVID · REMEDIA AMORIS · 75-76

     From the very outset I pray to You, Apollo, inventor of music and of all the healing arts, come to my aid and this undertaking; bless it with Your laurel.

     Roman · literary

     Apollo

     InvocationPetition
     Augustan

     →
156. 156

     Prayer to Apollo

     OVID · REMEDIA AMORIS · 704

     Come, health-bearing Apollo, come favoring my undertaking.

     Roman · literary

     Apollo

     Invocation
     Augustan

     →
157. 157

     Prayer to Apollo

     STATIUS · THEBAID · 1.693-697; 715-717

     Pour wine on the altar's fire as we sing our vows again and again to Leto's son, the Preserver of our forefathers. Father Phoebus, whether it is the snowy slopes of Lycia or the thorny slopes of Patara that perpetually keep you busy, or if it pleases you to merge your golden hair in Castalia's chaste moisture — come now, remembering our hospitality, and bless once more the fertile fields of Juno.

     Roman · literary

     Apollo

     InvocationPetitionDedication
     1st c. AD

     →
158. 158

     Prayer to Apollo

     TIBULLUS · ELEGIAE · 2.5.1-4; 122-123

     Give your favour, Phoebus, to a new priest who enters your temple. Be gracious, and with songs and lyre, come! When your fingers pluck the chords, and you give voice to song, I pray you may inspire my words into your praises. May your hair be ever flowing, Phoebus; may your sister be forever chaste.

     Roman · literary

     Apollo

     PetitionInvocationPraise
     1st c. BC

     →
159. 159

     Prayer to Apollo

     VALERIUS FLACCUS · ARGONAUTICA · 1.5-7

     Advise me, Phoebus Apollo, if ever You inspired the Sibyl of Cumae to see visions waft from a kettle in Your sacred house, if ever a chaplet of fresh laurel dignified a worthy brow, and O You whose great fame opened many a sea.

     Roman · literary

     Apollo

     PetitionInvocation
     1st c. AD

     →
160. 160

     Prayer to Apollo

     VALERIUS FLACCUS · ARGONAUTICA · 5.17-20

     Turn to us now, Mighty Archer, I pray that finally now, Apollo, You will come to our aid! Father, revive the life of this man. If You approve of what we do, then stir back to life he who is of the utmost importance for the success of our venture; and so from this one does the fate of all hands depends.

     Roman · literary

     Apollo

     PetitionInvocation
     1st c. AD

     →
161. 161

     Prayer to Bacchus

     CAESIUS BASSIUS · HYMN OF CALLIMACHUS

     Come, O Lyaeus, bihorned Bassareus, two-mothered Maenalius, come into this place I prepare with sleek, shiny hair. May You arouse with a crown of ivy and golden clusters of grapes, and bear shaft of new green wood, O Gentle One, may You come to this altar, Bacchus, Bacchus, Bacchus.

     Roman · ritual

     Bacchus

     Invocation
     →
162. 162

     Prayer to Bacchus

     ANONYMOUS · FLORES CARMINA · 2

     Bacchus, inventor of vines, may you arrive full of wines, may you pour forth the sweet liquid, to be compared with nectar, and make the old pleasant, and turned to another use, may it not lead harsh flavor to our spiteful veins.

     Roman · ritual

     Bacchus

     InvocationPetition
     →
163. 163

     Prayer to Bacchus

     HORACE · CARMINA · 2.19.7-8

     Euhoe! Save me Liber, spare me grave master of the fearful ivy-rod.

     Roman · literary

     Bacchus

     PetitionInvocation
     Augustan

     →
164. 164

     Prayer to Bacchus

     HORACE · CARMINA · 3.25.18-20

     In spring, O Lenaeus Bacchus, I follow You, a god wreathed with ivy.

     Roman · literary

     Bacchus

     PraiseInvocation
     Augustan

     →
165. 165

     Prayer to Silvanus

     ANONYMOUS · CARMINA LATINA EPIGRAPHICA · 2.250.12

     Come, O God, kind patron, come! May you favor us in your presence.

     Roman · personal

     Silvanus

     InvocationPetition
     2nd c. AD

     →