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

   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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3. 003

   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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4. 004

   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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5. 005

   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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6. 006

   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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7. 007

   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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8. 008

   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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9. 009

   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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10. 010

    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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11. 011

    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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12. 012

    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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13. 013

    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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14. 014

    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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15. 015

    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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16. 016

    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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17. 017

    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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18. 018

    Carmen Arvale

    FRATRES ARVALES · CARMEN ARVALIUM (CIL VI 2104)

    Lasas assist us, Lasas delight us, Lasas come to our aid! Neither plague nor ruin, Marmor, allow to be visited on us. But if however we are invaded, like Mars we shall leap across our borders to sate you with the blood of our enemies and stay the barbarians. Marmor assist us, Marmor defend us, Marmor come to our aid. Triumph, triumph, triumph, triumph, triumph!

    Roman · ritual

    Mars, the Lares

    PetitionProtection
    archaic Latin (preserved in inscription of 218 AD)

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19. 019

    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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20. 020

    The evocatio of Carthage

    MACROBIUS · SATURNALIA · 3.9.7-8

    Whether you are a god or a goddess of these people who defend this city of Carthage, and you Most High, take back your favor in defense of this city and these people whom I attack. I pray, I beseech, I ask your indulgence, that you withdraw and desert these people and this city of Carthage, and that you relinquish the temples and sacred precincts of this city, go away without them, and incite these people and their city into fear of oblivion. Come then to favor Rome by crossing over to me and my army, and with our city tried and accepted as the location for your sacred precincts and holy rites, be propitious to me and the people of Rome, and my soldiers. If you make this happen, with clear and recognizable signs, I vow to erect temples for you and to initiate games in your honor.

    Roman · ritual

    PetitionDedication
    late 4th / early 5th c. AD (preserving archaic Roman formula)

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21. 021

    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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22. 022

    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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23. 023

    Prayer to Mars

    OVID · FASTI · 5.573-577

    If, Father, my war is authorized by Vesta's priestess, and whenever I prepare to take divine vengeance, Mars, be by my side and satiate cold steel with guilt's blood, and lend Your favour to the better side. If I am victorious for You I'll build a shrine and call You Ultor, Mars the Avenger.

    Roman · public

    Mars

    PetitionOath
    early 1st c. AD

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24. 024

    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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25. 025

    Prayer to Priapus

    PETRONIUS · SATYRICON · 133

    Companion of Bacchus and the Nymphs, to whom lovely Dione gave power over the woodland, whom famed Lesbos and green Thasos obey, whom gold-bearing Lydia worships, whose temple you sited in your very own city of Hypaepa: be with me, O protector of Bacchus, delight of the Dryads, and hear my humble prayer. I do not come to you stained with dark blood, I've not laid hands like some vile enemy on your shrine, but when I was poor, oppressed with want, I committed sin, yet not with my whole body: less guilty he who commits a sin when he's poor. Here's my prayer: unburden my spirit, and forgive the lightest of offences and, whenever some hour of good fortune smiles on me, I'll not suffer your glory to go unhonoured. Sacred one, a horned goat, shall see your altars, the sire of the herd, and a sow's suckling brood of squealers too, in sacrifice. You'll know this year's vintage, and all the young men, tipsy, will tread thrice round your sanctuary, joyously.

    Roman · personal

    Priapus

    PetitionDedicationatonement
    mid 1st c. AD

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26. 026

    Prayer to Aesculapius

    MARTIAL · EPIGRAMMATA · 9.17

    Latona's grandson, revered Aesculapis, by whose mild herbal remedies too briefly are the Fates beguiled, from Rome this child sends You his golden locks, that were once his lord's delight, and along with these the mirror that often assured him he was fair. He hastens to sacrifice these tresses that once circled his shining face, happily to serve, in payment for a vow, if You judge that out of danger he will be. Preserve his youthful grace, though his hair is now shortened, and long may You keep him handsome.

    Roman · personal

    Aesculapius

    DedicationPetition
    late 1st c. AD

    →
27. 027

    Formula spoken at sowing

    PLINY THE ELDER · NATURALIS HISTORIA · 24.116

    I sow this rape seed for myself and for my neighbors.

    Roman · ritual

    PetitionDedication
    1st c. AD (Pliny preserving a rural ritual formula)

    →
28. 028

    The Vestal Aemilia's prayer

    DIONYSIUS OF HALICARNASSUS · ROMAN ANTIQUITIES · II.68.3-5

    O Vesta, guardian of the Romans' city, if, during the space of nearly thirty years, I have performed the sacred offices to thee in a holy and proper manner, keeping a pure mind and a chaste body, do thou manifest thyself in my defence and assist me and do not suffer thy priestess to die the most miserable of all deaths; but if I have been guilty of any impious deed, let my punishment expiate the guilt of the city.

    Roman · personal

    Vesta

    PetitionOath
    1st c. BC (describing an earlier Republican event of uncertain date)

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29. 029

    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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30. 030

    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
    →
31. 031

    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
    →
32. 032

    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
    →
33. 033

    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
    →
34. 034

    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
    →
35. 035

    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
    →
36. 036

    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
    →
37. 037

    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
    →
38. 038

    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
    →
39. 039

    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
    →
40. 040

    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
    →
41. 041

    Plethon's hymn

    GEORGE GEMISTOS PLETHON · TWENTY-SECOND HYMN

    Let me not cease, O' Blissful Gods, to owe You gratitude, for all the good things I receive,

    Greek · personal

    Zeus

    GratitudePetition
    15th c. AD

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42. 042

    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
    →
43. 043

    Prayer to Pan

    PLATO · PHAEDRUS · 279b-c

    O' friend Pan, and all you other Gods who are worshipped here; grant to me inner beauty. And whatever I have that is beneficial to me, may it be in harmony with that which is within me so that I may consider only the wise as wealthy. As for the sum of my money, may it be sufficient and not more than what a prudent man may carry or endure.

    Greek · personal

    Pan

    Petition
    4th c. BC

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44. 044

    Prayer to Mars

    CATO · DE AGRICULTURA · 141

    Father Mars, I pray and beseech thee that thou be gracious and merciful to me, my house, and my household; to which intent I have bidden this suovetaurilia to be led around my land, my ground, my farm; that thou keep away, ward off, and remove sickness, seen and unseen, barrenness and destruction, ruin and unseasonable influence; and that thou permit my harvests, my grain, my vineyards, and my plantations to flourish and to come to good issue, preserve in health my shepherds and my flocks, and give good health and strength to me, my house, and my household. To this intent, to the intent of purifying my farm, my land, my ground, and of making an expiation, as I have said, deign to accept the offering of these suckling victims; Father Mars, to the same intent deign to accept the offering of these suckling victims.

    Roman · ritual

    Mars

    PetitionProtectionDedication
    2nd c. BC

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45. 045

    Prayer for thinning a sacred grove

    CATO · DE AGRICULTURA · 139

    Whether thou be god or goddess to whom this grove is dedicated, as it is thy right to receive a sacrifice of a pig for the thinning of this sacred grove, and to this intent, whether I or one at my bidding do it, may it be rightly done. To this end, in offering this pig to thee I humbly beg that thou wilt be gracious and merciful to me, to my house and household, and to my children. Wilt thou deign to receive this pig which I offer thee to this end.

    Roman · ritual

    PetitionDedication
    2nd c. BC

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46. 046

    Prayer to Jupiter

    CICERO · IN CATILINAM · 1.33

    Then do you, O Jupiter, who were consecrated by Romulus with the same auspices as this City, whom we rightly call the stay of this city and empire, repel this man and his companions from your altars and from the other temples, from the houses and walls of the city, from the lives and fortunes of all the citizens; and overwhelm all the enemies of good men, the foes of the republic, the robbers of Italy, men bound together by a treaty and infamous alliance of crimes, dead and alive, with eternal punishments.

    Roman · public

    Jupiter

    PetitionProtection
    1st c. BC

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47. 047

    Prayer to Jupiter

    ANONYMOUS · CIL, ACTA LUDORUM SAECULARIUM · VI 32323, Iuppiter O.M.

    Jupiter Optimus Maximus, as it is prescribed for you in the Sibylline Oracles, let sacrifice be made to you with this fine bull. I beg you and pray that you may increase the power and majesty of the Roman people, the Quirites, in war and peace; and that the Latins may always be obedient; and that you may grant eternal safety, victory and health to the Roman people, the Quirites.

    Roman · ritual

    Jupiter

    PetitionDedication
    Augustan

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48. 048

    Prayer to Jupiter

    LIVY · AB URBE CONDITA · 1.12.4-7

    O Jupiter, it was through Your omen that I was led while I laid here upon the Palatine Hill, to establish the very first foundations of the city of Rome. Already the Arx, that fortress wickedly bought, is seized by the Sabines. But if You, Father of the Gods and of men, hold back our enemies, at least from this spot, delivering the Romans from their terror, and stay their shameful retreat, then this I vow to You, Jupiter Stator, that a holy precinct and shrine will be built in Your honor as a memorial to remind our descendents of how once the city of Rome was saved by Your aid.

    Roman · public

    Jupiter

    PetitionOathDedication
    Regal period (recorded by Livy)

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49. 049

    Prayer to the Lares

    TIBULLUS · ELEGIAE · 1.1.19-24

    Lares, and you gods also, who earlier made our household fruitful and fortunate, may you guard and bless the little that remains today on our farm. Lares, accept what your kindred present to you. For you a lamb shall be offered when around your altar you'll hear rustic boys shouting, 'Io! Give us fine harvests and fruitful vines!'

    Roman · personal

    the Lares

    PetitionDedication
    1st c. BC

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50. 050

    Prayer to the Lares

    TIBULLUS · ELEGIAE · 1.10.15-25

    Lares, gods of my fathers, preserve me! While young and still nursing, you guided me when I played at your feet. Let none profane your antique images: rough-hewn wooden statues set upon altars of upturned sod then dwelled among our grandfathers. In those days humble reverence provided you with sweet honey alone, you stayed in meager shrines made of twigs, in tattered robes the gods were pleased with offerings of grapes and wreathes of wheat set upon carved heads. Lares, turn away from us those who scheme against us with their bronze weapons.

    Roman · personal

    the Lares

    PetitionProtectionPraise
    1st c. BC

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51. 051

    Prayer to Mercury

    OVID · FASTI · 5.681-690

    O Mercury, whether I have falsely called You to bear witness in the past, or deceitfully called upon Jupiter not to hear my empty promises, wash away my past perjuries, wash away yesterday's perfidious words, and allow me new perjuries to make when the new day dawns, and make the gods be indifferent to my lies. Grant that I may profit, grant joy in making a profit, grant that I may enjoy once more swindling my customers with deceitful words.

    Roman · literary

    Mercury

    Petition
    Augustan

    →
52. 052

    Prayer to Neptune

    ANONYMOUS · DEFIXIO / CURSE TABLET · AE 1997.977, Hamble, Britannia

    Lord Neptune, I commend to You the fellow who pounced upon what rightfully belongs to Muconus and therefore I remit to You the six silver coins along with the one who stole them. May You ensnare this thief who violated me in this way; may You attack him and consume his blood, Lord Neptune.

    Roman · personal

    Neptune

    Petition
    →
53. 053

    Prayer to Pales

    OVID · FASTI · 4.747

    Pray to Pales with warm milk, say: 'Be equally mindful of sheep and their masters, Pales. May my stables escape from harm. If I have grazed my flock in sacred pastures, or sat beneath a sacred tree, if unknowingly my sheep plunked their fodder from gravesites, if I have entered a sacred grove forbidden to men, and the nymphs and the half goat gods fled in fear at the sight of me, if my knife has pruned a shady bough to give a basket of leaves to an ailing sheep, grant indulgence of my offenses. May I never herd home less than were counted in the morning. May I never bewail the torn fleece of my sheep carried off by a wolf. May unjust famine remain.'

    Roman · ritual

    Pales

    PetitionProtection
    Augustan

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54. 054

    Prayer to Robigo

    OVID · FASTI · 4.911-926

    Spare Ceres grain, O scabby Robigo, let the tips of sprouting shoots gently quiver above rich soil. Let the crops grow, nurtured in turn as each star passes through the heavens, until full and ripe they are readied for the scythe. Your power is not light. What grain You touch, the farmer notes as lost. Spare them, I pray. May You not grasp the crops, but embrace hard iron. Destroy first whatever else is able to destroy. Better to seize the destructive spear and sword. Do not violate Ceres, but allow the farmer time to fulfill his vows for Your absence.

    Roman · ritual

    Robigo

    PetitionProtection
    Augustan

    →
55. 055

    Prayer to Silvanus

    TITUS POMPONIUS VICTOR · CIL · XII.103

    Silvanus, high guardian of other gardens as well, we offer you this holy ash tree on the forest's edge with songs of thanks. We dedicate this for our fields and Alpine mountain, and may it be acceptable as a shrine for yourself. While I discharge the law and perform Caesar's duties should your shrine favorably safeguard and prosper me and mine, men returned to Rome, and grant safekeeping of the Italian land we cherish, then to you I will indeed dedicate a thousand great trees.

    Roman · personal

    Silvanus

    DedicationPetitionGratitude
    Imperial

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56. 056

    Prayer to the Manes

    ANONYMOUS · CIL · CIL VI 18817

    Whole-heartedly I pray to you, most holy Manes, may you admit my dear husband among you, and, may you want to be most indulging in this, that in the hours of the night I may see him and also be advised by him on what to do, in order that I may be able to swiftly and sweetly come stand by his side.

    Roman · personal

    the Manes

    Petition
    →
57. 057

    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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58. 058

    Prayer to Earth

    ANTONIUS MUSA · PRECATIO TERRAE · 23-29

    Hear me, please, and favor me. This I ask of You, Holy Mother, and may You willingly give answer to me: May whatever herbs grow by Your providence bring health to all humankind. May You now send these forth to me as Your medicines. May they be filled with Your healing virtues. May everything that I prepare from these herbs have good result, each and every one in the same way.

    Roman · ritual

    Earth

    Petition
    1st c. BC - 1st c. AD

    →
59. 059

    Prayer to Earth

    ANONYMOUS · CIL, ACTA LUDORUM SAECULARIUM · VI 32323, Terra Mater

    Terra Mater, as it is prescribed for you in those books, let sacrifice be made to you with a pregnant sow of your own, as a whole burnt offering. I beg and pray that you may increase the sovereign power and majesty of the Roman people, the Quirites, in war and peace; as you have always watched over us among the Latins. Forever may you grant safety, victory and health to the Roman people, the Quirites.

    Roman · ritual

    Earth

    PetitionDedication
    Augustan

    →
60. 060

    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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61. 061

    Prayer to Vesta

    CICERO · DE DOMO SUA AD PONTIFICES · 144-145

    Mother Vesta, I pray to You, whose most chaste Vestales I have defended against pillage and desecration by demented men; for their eternal flame I could not allow to pass, extinguished in the blood of citizens, or Your pure flame be intermingled with a conflagration sweeping the entire city. I call You as witness, I place myself and my family in Your hands, in these struggles I devoted myself and my life, while consul and before, without regard for my own interests, or for profit, but strove in all my actions and thoughts with vigilance for the safety and health of all my fellow citizens. When by Your favor my home is restored to me, may I at long last be allowed to consider it demonstrated that this devotion of my life has met with the approval of the Gods.

    Roman · personal

    Vesta

    PetitionOath
    1st c. BC

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62. 062

    The ordeal of the Vestal Tuccia

    VALERIUS MAXIMUS · FACTA ET DICTA MEMORABILIA · 8.1.5

    O Vesta, if I have always brought pure hands to your secret services, make it so now that with this sieve I shall be able to draw water from the Tiber and bring it to Your temple.

    Roman · personal

    Vesta

    PetitionOath
    3rd c. BC (recorded 1st c. AD)

    →
63. 063

    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)

    →
64. 064

    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

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65. 065

    Prayer to Janus

    CATO · DE AGRICULTURA · 134

    Father Janus, to You I pray with good prayers, offering You this pile of cakes, so that You might willingly be favorable to me and my children, to my home and household. Father Janus, for the same reasons given in the good prayers I prayed while offering You piled cakes, may You accept and be honored by this portion of wine I pour.

    Roman · ritual

    Janus

    PetitionDedication
    2nd c. BC

    →
66. 066

    The fetial declaration of war

    LIVY · AB URBE CONDITA · 1.32.10

    Hear, o Jupiter, and You Janus Quirinus, and all You heavenly Gods, and You gods of earth and of the lower world, hear me! I call You to witness that this people is unjust and does not fulfill its sacred obligations.

    Roman · public

    Janus, Jupiter

    OathPetition
    Regal period (recorded by Livy)

    →
67. 067

    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

    →
68. 068

    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

    →
69. 069

    Prayer to Juno

    ANONYMOUS · CIL, ACTA LUDORUM SAECULARIUM · VI 32323, Iuno Regina

    Juno Regina, as it is prescribed for you in those books, let sacrifice be made to You with a fine cow. I beg and pray that You may increase the sovereign power and majesty of the Roman people, the Quirites, in war and peace; as You have always watched over us among the Latins. Forever may You grant safety, victory and health to the Roman people, the Quirites.

    Roman · ritual

    Juno

    PetitionDedication
    Augustan

    →
70. 070

    Prayer to Juno

    ANONYMOUS · CIL, ACTA LUDORUM SAECULARIUM · VI 32323, CX matres familias

    Juno Regina, if there is any better fortune that may attend the Roman people, the Quirites, we one hundred and ten mistresses of households of the Roman people, the Quirites, married women on bended knee, pray that You bring it about, we beg and beseech that You increase the power and majesty of the Roman people, the Quirites in war and peace; and that the Latins may always be obedient; and that You may grant eternal safety, victory and health to the Roman people, the Quirites.

    Roman · public

    Juno

    Petition
    Augustan

    →
71. 071

    Prayer to Juno

    SILIUS ITALICUS · PUNICA · 7.78-85

    Be present O Queen of the Heavenly Gods, we Your chaste daughters pray and bring forth this venerable gift, we, all the Roman women of noble name, have woven this mantle with our own hands, embroidered it for You with threads of gold. This veil You shall wear for now, Juno, until we mothers grow less tearful for our sons. But if You will grant that we may repel these African storm clouds from our land, we shall set upon You a flashing crown of diverse gems set in gold.

    Roman · public

    Juno

    PetitionDedication
    1st c. AD

    →
72. 072

    Prayer to Mother Earth

    ANONYMOUS · CIL · VI.9204

    Mother Earth, indeed to You I pray, settle lightly on these bones, as she knew that piety is the reward of she who merits it, and whoever sincerely stands out in performing her own pious duties may be carried on that happy path to the Gods above.

    Roman · personal

    Mother Earth

    Petition
    →
73. 073

    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)

    →
74. 074

    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

    →
75. 075

    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

    →
76. 076

    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

    →
77. 077

    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

    →
78. 078

    Prayer to Ceres

    CATO · DE AGRICULTURA · 134

    Ceres Mater, to You I pray with good prayers, offering You this pile of cakes, so that You might willing be favorable to me and my children, to my home and household. Ceres Mater, for the same reasons given in the good prayers I prayed while offering You piled cakes, may You accept and be honored by this portion of wine I pour.

    Roman · ritual

    Ceres, Janus, Jupiter, Juno

    PetitionDedication
    2nd c. BC

    →
79. 079

    Prayer to Ceres and Earth

    OVID · FASTI · 1.671-704

    O Mothers of Fruitfulness, Earth and Ceres, please, with salted spelt cakes offered for Your mother's woe, in kind service have Earth and Ceres nurtured wheat, She who gave grain life, She who gave us room to grow. May You grant tender seed abundant increase. Let not icy cold enwrap our new shoots with snow, while we sow let cloudless skies and fair winds blow. When the seed lies sprouting, sprinkle with gentle rains, may You ward off the feasting by birds from our grains.

    Roman · ritual

    Ceres, Earth

    PetitionProtection
    Augustan

    →
80. 080

    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

    →
81. 081

    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

    →
82. 082

    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

    →
83. 083

    Prayer to Diana and Eileithyia

    OVID · AMORES · 2.13.19-26

    Ilithyia, You who are compassionate towards women in labor, who suffer with great pains in their womb, their bodies strained in slow birth of the hidden child, gently attend to her, Ilithyia, and favor my prayers. She is worthy of Your aid, reward her with life, I will myself, dressed in pure white robes offer frankincense upon Your altar, I will myself carry votive gifts to lay at Your feet. And to Your altar's inscription I shall add, 'By Naso, for Corinna saved.' Act in this manner, and receive the legend inscribed and the gifts in Your sanctuary.

    Roman · personal

    Diana, Eileithyia

    PetitionDedication
    Augustan

    →
84. 084

    Prayer to Diana

    STATIUS · THEBAID · 9.608-635

    Virgin Goddess of the sacred groves, whose unkind banners and fierce battle cries I follow, scorning my sex in a manner unlike the Greeks. If ever did I not boldly enter Bacchic revelries of the night, and even after I married, though my virgin purity was soiled, in my heart of hearts I remained a virgin huntress. I took no care to hide my fault from You in some secret cave, but held out my son to You, confessed my shame and trembling laid him at Your feet. He was not of degenerate blood, not weak or mild, but straightaway he crawled to my bow and as a babe cried for my arrow. For him I pray — whose fate causes me these restless nights and threatening dreams — for him, who now audaciously goes too boldly off to war, I pray to You that I may see him victorious, or, if I pray for too much, grant at least that I may see him once more. I pray, merciful Dictynna, by Your mother's labors and Your brother's glory, with all Your arrows pierce deeply this unhappy womb, and let him first hear of his wretched mother's death.

    Roman · literary

    Diana

    PetitionOath
    1st c. AD

    →
85. 085

    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

    →
86. 086

    Prayer to Apollo

    ANONYMOUS · CIL, ACTA LUDORUM SAECULARIUM · VI 32323 (Apollini et Dianae)

    Apollo, as it is prescribed for you in those books — and for this reason may every good fortune attend the Roman people, the Quirites — let sacrifice be made to you with nine popana, and nine cakes, and nine phthoes. I beg and pray that you may increase the sovereign power and majesty of the Roman people, the Quirites, in war and peace; as you have always watched over us among the Latins. Forever may you grant safety, victory and health to the Roman people, the Quirites. May you bestow your favor on the Roman people, the Quirites, and on the legions of the Roman people, the Quirites. May you preserve the health and welfare of the people of Rome, the Quirites, and may you always remain willingly favorable and propitious to the people of Rome, the Quirites, to the college of the quindecimviri, to me, to my house and household.

    Roman · ritual

    Apollo

    PetitionProtectionDedication
    Augustan

    →
87. 087

    Prayer to Apollo

    HORACE · CARMINA · 1.31.1-4; 17-20

    What may a poet ask in his prayers of You, Apollo? What can he say as he pours a libation of new wine to You? May Apollo grant that I enjoy good health and a sound mind, and, I pray, when I grow old, may He grant me a strife-free life, a clear mind and a lyre beside me with which to sing His praises.

    Roman · literary

    Apollo

    Petition
    Augustan

    →
88. 088

    Prayer to Apollo and Juno

    LIVY · AB URBE CONDITA · 5.21.2-3

    Pythian Apollo, inspired by You and Your guiding influence I go forth to destroy the city of Veii. A tenth part of its spoils I devote to You. Likewise for You, Juno Regina, who in Veii now dwells, I pray, that after our victory You will follow us to our City, that soon will become Your City as well, where a holy precinct worthy of Your dignity will be built to receive You.

    Roman · public

    Apollo, Juno

    PetitionDedicationOath
    4th c. BC (recorded by Livy, 1st c. BC)

    →
89. 089

    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

    →
90. 090

    Prayer to Apollo

    TIBULLUS · ELEGIAE · 3.10.1-10; 25-26

    Draw near, Apollo, and expel the illness from this tender girl, come, draw near. Phoebus of flowing hair unshorn, hear me and hasten. If, Phoebus, You apply Your healing hand to her, You will not regret saving her. Allow not that she should waste away emaciated, or that her color should wane to pallor, or that her limbs should lose their strength, and do not wait until her white limbs turn to a hideous color. Whatsoever this illness may be, whatever sorrow we may fear it will bring, carry it off with the waters of a swift running stream to the seas. Holy one, come! And bring with You all Your delicacies, all Your songs, and all else that will soothe the sick.

    Roman · personal

    Apollo

    PetitionProtection
    1st c. BC

    →
91. 091

    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

    →
92. 092

    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

    →
93. 093

    Prayer to Eileithyia and Athena

    ARISTOPHANES · LYSISTRATA · 742 ff

    Oh! goddess divine, Eileithyia, patroness of women in labour, stay, stay the birth, till I have reached a spot less hallowed than Athene's mount!

    Greek · personal

    Eileithyia, Athena

    Petition
    5th-4th c. BC

    →
94. 094

    Prayer to Eileithyia

    CALLIMACHUS · EPIGRAMS (GREEK ANTHOLOGY 6.146) · 54

    Eileithyia, come thou when Kykainis calls, to bless her pains with easy birth.

    Greek · personal

    Eileithyia

    Petition
    3rd c. BC

    →
95. 095

    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)

    →
96. 096

    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)

    →
97. 097

    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)

    →
98. 098

    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)

    →
99. 099

    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)

    →
100. 100

     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)

     →
101. 101

     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)

     →
102. 102

     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)

     →
103. 103

     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)

     →
104. 104

     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)

     →
105. 105

     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)

     →
106. 106

     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)

     →
107. 107

     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)

     →
108. 108

     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)

     →
109. 109

     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)

     →
110. 110

     Prayer to Mars

     CLAUDIAN · IN RUFINUM · 1.334-348

     Mars, whether you rush down from the cloud-capped Mount Haemus, whether on the frosty white mountains of Thrace, whether stirring on Monte Santo in Macedonia with the black boots of soldiers stationed on all the lands they hold, to make ready with me, and defend your Thrace, if it is made happy, the campaign coming into glory, the sacred oak will be dressed with an offering of spolia.

     Roman · personal

     Mars

     PetitionDedication
     late 4th / early 5th c. AD

     →
111. 111

     Prayer to Neria and Mars

     AULUS GELLIUS · NOCTES ATTICAE · 13.23.13

     Neria, wife of Mars, I appeal to you, give peace. May you use your own favored position with your husband; counsel Him to partake in this plan. In the same way as we reconcile ourselves to those who carried off our daughters, may you now join with Him for all times in favoring His.

     Roman · public

     Neria, Mars

     Petition
     2nd c. AD (preserving archaic formula)

     →
112. 112

     Prayer to Vulcan

     GRATTIUS FALISCUS · CYNEGETICA · 437-442

     Holy Vulcanus, foremost of those who cherish this place, to You we pray for peace. Grant Your ultimate assistance to the tired and worn, and, if no one here merits punishment for some noxious crime, may You have mercy on all their souls and allow them to reach Your purifying fountains. Three times they invoke Your name, three times they pour rich incense upon the focal fire, and strew the altar with auspicious boughs in Your honor.

     Roman · ritual

     Vulcan

     PetitionProtection
     late 1st c. BC / early 1st c. AD

     →
113. 113

     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

     →
114. 114

     A prayer for war against strangers

     LUCAN · DE BELLO CIVILI (PHARSALIA) · 2.47-49

     Gods above, we do not pray for peace. Grant rage onto the nations. May You now arouse the cities; bring forth the whole world in arms to war.

     Roman · public

     Petition
     mid 1st c. AD

     →
115. 115

     Prayer to Vulcan

     MARTIAL · EPIGRAMMATA · 5.7.5-8

     Soon, I pray, Vulcan, memories of whispered rumors of disgrace and loud quarrels of complaint You will no longer hold against the children of Mars; we are also the children of Your sweet wife Venus, spare us, Father.

     Roman · personal

     Vulcan, Venus, Mars

     Petition
     late 1st c. AD

     →
116. 116

     Prayer to Priapus

     ANONYMOUS · CARMINA PRIAPEA · 37

     Give assistance, Priapus, to the part of which you, father, seem to be a part yourself! If it is made healthy without surgery, a painted one, its equal in size, shape and color, shall be dedicated to you.

     Roman · personal

     Priapus

     PetitionDedication
     1st c. AD

     →
117. 117

     Prayer to Mars

     SILIUS ITALICUS · PUNICA · 3.126-127

     But You, O Mars, Father of Warfare, have pity on us, turn evil aside from us and preserve my husband's life as inviolable to all Trojan assaults.

     Roman · personal

     Mars

     PetitionProtection
     late 1st c. AD

     →
118. 118

     Prayer to Aesculapius and Salus

     TERENCE · HECYRA · 328

     I'm sadly afraid Philumena's illness is getting worse. Aesculapius, I do entreat thee, and thee, Salus, that it may not be so.

     Roman · personal

     Aesculapius, Salus

     Petition
     2nd c. BC

     →
119. 119

     Prayer to Mars Gradivus

     VALERIUS FLACCUS · ARGONAUTICA · 5.250-252

     Mars Gradivus, hear me, on whose sacred oak which fleece glitters. Protect it and keep it safe always, your arms prepared to clash at the clarion's sound to which your voice responds, ringing out in the darkness.

     Roman · personal

     Mars Gradivus

     PetitionProtection
     late 1st c. AD

     →
120. 120

     Prayer to Jupiter Capitolinus

     VELLEIUS PATERCULUS · HISTORIAE ROMANAE · II.131

     Jupiter Capitolinus, Mars Gradivus called progenitor and aide of the Romans, Vesta, perpetual guardian of fire, and whatever divine powers in this greatness of Roman sovereignty, the largest empire on earth, exulted to the highest dignity, to You the public voice calls to witness and to pray: guard, preserve, and protect this state, this peace, this prince, and those who succeed to the Senate, by their long standing, determined worthy to consider the most grave matters among mortals.

     Roman · public

     Jupiter Capitolinus, Mars Gradivus, Vesta

     PetitionProtection
     early 1st c. AD

     →
121. 121

     Prayer to Bacchus and Liber

     OVID · FASTI · III.713-714

     There's a popular festival of Bacchus, on the third day after the Ides. Bacchus, favour the poet who sings your feast.

     Roman · personal

     Bacchus, Liber

     Petition
     early 1st c. AD

     →
122. 122

     Prayer to Bacchus and Liber

     OVID · FASTI · 3.789-790

     Father, turn your mild head here, and gentle horns, and spread the sails of my art to a favourable breeze.

     Roman · personal

     Bacchus, Liber

     Petition
     early 1st c. AD

     →
123. 123

     Prayer to Flora

     OVID · FASTI · V.377-378

     That Naso's lay may bloom for aye, O strew, I pray thee, goddess, thy boons upon my breast!

     Roman · personal

     Flora

     Petition
     early 1st c. AD

     →
124. 124

     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
     →
125. 125

     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
     →
126. 126

     Prayer at a child's naming

     LABRYS POLYTHEISTIC COMMUNITY · HELLENIC POLYTHEISM: HOUSEHOLD WORSHIP · Namegiving Ceremony — Prayer

     O' Immortal Gods, I call upon you to come with good disposition and to grant to [child name] a blissful life, a life of pleasure and a life of virtue guided by reason, nature and ethos. Honoured Ancestors, help this child to continue your name and your deeds. May the Gods ever Protect and Sustain [child name].

     Greek · ritual

     PetitionDedication
     →
127. 127

     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
     →
128. 128

     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
     →
129. 129

     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
     →
130. 130

     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
     →
131. 131

     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
     →
132. 132

     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

     →
133. 133

     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
     →
134. 134

     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

     →
135. 135

     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

     →
136. 136

     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
     →
137. 137

     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
     →
138. 138

     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
     →
139. 139

     Prayer to Mars

     CATO · DE AGRICULTURA · 141

     Father Mars, if aught hath not pleased thee in the offering of those sucklings, I make atonement with this pig.

     Roman · ritual

     Mars

     PetitionDedication
     2nd c. BC

     →
140. 140

     Prayer to Faunus

     HORACE · CARMINA · 3.18.1-8

     Amorous Faunus, from whom the Nymphs flee, step lightly across my boundaries and sunny fields, and soon depart, leaving your blessing on my young lambs and kids, and leveled tender shoots. If gentle, at year's end a plumb kid I'll offer, with wine libations liberally poured from the cups of Venus' devotees, and many sweet, fragrant herbs I'll burn on your ancient altar.

     Roman · personal

     Faunus

     PetitionDedication
     Augustan

     →
141. 141

     Prayer to Faunus and Mother Earth

     VIRGIL · AENEID · 12.777-779

     Faunus, have pity, I pray, and you, opulent Earth, hold fast this weapon, if always I have honored your worship in good faith.

     Roman · literary

     Faunus, Mother Earth

     Petition
     Augustan

     →
142. 142

     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

     →
143. 143

     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

     →
144. 144

     Prayer to Jupiter

     VIRGIL · AENEID · 5.687-693

     Jupiter Almighty, if You do not yet detest every Trojan to a man, if You still regard our pious acts of old, Father, grant that the flames will now avoid our fleet, and may You pull the diminished people of Troy away from destruction. Or else, if I so deserve, then send forth Your thunderbolt from above and cast those who remain into death, and by Your power rightly bury them.

     Roman · literary

     Jupiter

     Petition
     Augustan

     →
145. 145

     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

     →
146. 146

     Prayer to the Lares

     ENNIUS · ANNALES · I fr. 141

     And you Lares, care for our house that you established.

     Roman · personal

     the Lares

     Petition
     3rd-2nd c. BC

     →
147. 147

     Prayer to the Penates

     PLAUTUS · MERCATOR · 834-835

     Divine Penates of our ancestors, to you I commend the good fortune of my parents, and to you, Spiritual Father of our family, that you safeguard them well.

     Roman · personal

     the Penates

     PetitionDedication
     2nd c. BC

     →
148. 148

     Prayer to the Lares

     PLAUTUS · MERCATOR · 865

     Lares of the roadside, I call upon you to kindly protect me.

     Roman · personal

     the Lares

     PetitionProtection
     2nd c. BC

     →
149. 149

     Prayer to the Penates and Vesta

     VIRGIL · GEORGICS · 1.498-501

     Gods of our Fathers, Indigetes, heroes native to this land, Romulus and Mother Vesta, who preserve Etruscan Tiber and Roman Palatine, in this at least do not prohibit, a young savior come to the aid of a generation decimated by war.

     Roman · literary

     the Penates, Vesta

     Petition
     Augustan

     →
150. 150

     Prayer to Mercury

     HORACE · SATIRES · 2.6.4-5

     It is well. Nothing more ample do I pray, O Maia's son, save that You will make these my gifts last throughout my life.

     Roman · personal

     Mercury

     Petition
     Augustan

     →
151. 151

     Prayer to Mercury

     HORACE · SATIRES · 2.6.14-15

     May You, Mercurius, make plump the riches of my house and all else there, spare my natural talents in any case, and as usual, may You remain the primary guardian over me.

     Roman · personal

     Mercury

     Petition
     Augustan

     →
152. 152

     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

     →
153. 153

     Prayer to Minerva

     STATIUS · THEBAID · 2.715-729

     Proud, warlike Goddess, great honor and wisdom of Your Father, powerful in war are You, on whom the grim helmet is borne with its frightful decoration, speckled with the Gorgon's blood that glows more violent with increasing rage. May You with Your nod accept this sacrificial offering. Should I return to my Parthaonian fields, then amid her hills I shall dedicate to you a golden temple where a hundred Calydonian virgins will serve in devotions at your altar.

     Roman · literary

     Minerva

     PetitionDedicationOath
     1st c. AD

     →
154. 154

     Prayer to Jupiter

     LIVY · AB URBE CONDITA · 6.16.1

     Jupiter Optimus Maximus, Juno Regina, Minerva, and all you other gods and goddesses who dwell upon the Capitolium and the Arx, is this how you allow your defender, the protector of your shrines, to be treated, to be vexed and harassed by his enemies in this manner? Shall this right arm which drove the Gauls headlong from your shrines now be bound and chained?

     Roman · public

     Jupiter, Juno, Minerva

     PetitionOath
     4th c. BC (recorded by Livy)

     →
155. 155

     Prayer to Neptune

     ARNOBIUS · ADVERSUS NATIONES · III.43

     Come, Dii Penates, come Apollo and Neptune and all You Gods, and by Your powers may You mercifully turn aside this ill disease that violently twists, scorches and burns our city with fever.

     Roman · public

     Neptune, Apollo, the Penates

     PetitionProtection
     3rd-4th c. AD

     →
156. 156

     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

     →
157. 157

     Prayer to Neptune

     SILIUS ITALICUS · PUNICA · 15.159-162

     Neptune, divine Lord of the Trident, on whose high seas we begin to cross, if my preparations are made justly, grant our fleet to sail safely, Father, and do not scorn to aid our labors. The war I now draw across the sea is a just war.

     Roman · literary

     Neptune

     Petition
     1st c. AD

     →
158. 158

     Prayer to Neptune

     STATIUS · SILVAE · 3.2.1-12

     O Neptune, grand and rare is the pledge we make to You, and in what we commend into the depths of the sea. Father of the mighty Deep, grant that the benign stars, the Spartan brothers, Castor and Pollux, sit upon the horns of the yard arm. Let your light illuminate sea and sky. Drive off your sister Helen's stormy star, I pray, and expel it from all the heavens.

     Roman · literary

     Neptune

     PetitionDedication
     1st c. AD

     →
159. 159

     Prayer to Priapus

     TIBULLUS · ELEGIAE · 1.1.17-18

     Red guardian, Priapus, placed within this fruitful garden, with your fierce scythe frighten off the birds from this crop.

     Roman · personal

     Priapus

     PetitionProtection
     1st c. BC

     →
160. 160

     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

     →
161. 161

     Prayer to Venus

     HORACE · CARMINA · 4.1.1-2

     After so long a time, do You once more disturb my peace of mind with desires? Spare me, Venus, I pray, I beg of You!

     Roman · literary

     Venus

     Petition
     Augustan

     →
162. 162

     Prayer to Venus

     OVID · AMORES · 1.3.1-6

     My prayer is just. May Venus hear all our many prayers. Take one who would serve You through long years, accept one who knows how to love with a pure heart.

     Roman · literary

     Venus

     Petition
     Augustan

     →
163. 163

     Prayer to Venus

     PLAUTUS · RUDENS · 694-701

     Kind Venus, tearfully we plead to You, as we kneel and clasp this your altar, receive us into Your safekeeping and watch over us. Take vengeance on the wicked who have belittled your sanctuary, and in Your goodness let us remain at this altar as a refuge from our suffering. Be not offended with us, nor hold us at fault, if there be anything about us that to you is unclean.

     Roman · literary

     Venus

     PetitionProtection
     2nd c. BC

     →
164. 164

     Prayer to Venus

     VIRGIL · CATALEPTON · 14

     If I am to further my undertaking, to traverse all the world, O Venus, who dwells in Paphos and in Idalian groves, so that Trojan Aeneas is thought worthy at last to sail with You in song through Roman towns, not only with incense or painted tablet shall I adorn Your temple, and with pure hands bring You garlands, but a humble offering of a horned ram and a bull, the greatest sacrifice, their blood a priest shall sprinkle into the fire of an altar erected in Your honor.

     Roman · literary

     Venus

     PetitionDedication
     Augustan

     →
165. 165

     Prayer to Vesta

     OVID · FASTI · 3.425-428

     Vesta, watch over him whose hand tends the Holy Fire. Live well, fires. O live, I pray, undying flames.

     Roman · literary

     Vesta

     Petition
     Augustan

     →
166. 166

     Prayer to Vesta

     OVID · FASTI · 6.249-250

     Vesta favor me. To You now our voices lift in praise as by this rite it is allowed that we may approach You.

     Roman · ritual

     Vesta

     PetitionPraise
     Augustan

     →
167. 167

     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)

     →
168. 168

     Prayer to Carmenta

     ANONYMOUS · RITUS CARMENTIS · popana offering

     In You, dearest Mother, in Your hands we place our safekeeping. Carmentis, in offering to You this cake of cheese I pray good prayers in order that, pleased with this offering of popana cake, You may be favorable towards our children and to us, towards our homes and our households.

     Roman · ritual

     Carmenta

     DedicationPetition
     modern reconstruction (Nova Roma)

     →
169. 169

     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)

     →
170. 170

     Prayer to Carmenta

     ANONYMOUS · RITUS CARMENTIS · dream prayer

     O Carmenae, may you bring better dreams than this evil vision that has awakened me from a peaceful sleep; let it not be a prophetic vision. Cast far away from me this vain and false vision, and cease plucking my intestines with your zealous inquiries. Carmenae, I pray, turn this cruel dream to good, as night is turned into day, and bid the warm South wind to carry it away.

     Roman · personal

     Carmenta, Porrima, Postvorta

     PetitionProtection
     modern reconstruction (Nova Roma)

     →
171. 171

     Prayer to Hercules

     LUCIUS AUFIDIUS · CIL · CIL IX 3569

     Lucius Aufidius, son of Decius, deservedly devotes this gift to you, Hercules, to pay an annual tithe for the upkeep of your shrine. At the same time he asks of You, You who are a holy God, to help him and give him Your peace.

     Roman · personal

     Hercules

     DedicationPetition
     →
172. 172

     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

     →
173. 173

     Prayer to Hercules

     PROPERTIUS · ELEGIAE · 4.9.71-74

     Because Your hands have purified the Earth, the Sabines of Cures called You Sancus, The Holy One. Hail Father Sancus, whom austere Juno now favors. O Sancus, may You wish to be with me and Your spirit be in my books.

     Roman · literary

     Hercules

     PraisePetition
     Augustan

     →
174. 174

     Prayer to Hercules

     SILIUS ITALICUS · PUNICA · 1.505-507

     Hercules, Founder of our city Saguntum, you who are called Alcidus, in whose footsteps we now reside on this hallowed earth, avert the threatening storms from our land.

     Roman · literary

     Hercules

     PetitionProtection
     1st c. AD

     →
175. 175

     Prayer to Janus

     MARTIAL · EPIGRAMMATA · 8.2.8

     May You give, Father Janus, what we ask of You.

     Roman · literary

     Janus

     Petition
     1st c. AD

     →
176. 176

     Prayer to Janus

     OVID · FASTI · 1.172

     Janus, though I propitiate other Gods, I do offer wine and cakes to You first, so that I may obtain access through You, Janus, to any of the other Gods I may call upon.

     Roman · literary

     Janus

     DedicationPetition
     Augustan

     →
177. 177

     Prayer to Janus

     OVID · FASTI · 1.287

     Janus, make peace and the servants of peace eternal. Grant that the author of peace may not desert his work.

     Roman · literary

     Janus

     Petition
     Augustan

     →
178. 178

     Prayer to Juno

     SENECA · HERCULES ON OETA · 256-262

     Wherever You may be in the ethereal regions, O wife of Jupiter Tonans, send a wild beast against Alcides as may satisfy my need. If a serpent moves through the marsh with a fruitful head, more vast than all others born in this region, if a feral beast lives that is so immense, so dire, so horrible that Hercules Himself would avert His eye, let this beast come forth from some vast cave.

     Roman · literary

     Juno

     Petition
     1st c. AD

     →
179. 179

     Prayer to Juno

     VALERIUS FLACCUS · ARGONAUTICA · 1.80-90

     Almighty Queen of Heaven, remember when Jupiter made the skies grow wild with black clouds and sheets of rain; remember when Thundering Jupiter commanded Your return to the marriage bed, and how You, frightened with sudden capture and at being left destitute following Your rape, sought only how to flee; remember how it was I who carried You upon my shoulders across the storm swollen Enipeus. Grant, Juno, that I may arrive safely to Scythia where the Phasis flows.

     Roman · literary

     Juno

     Petition
     1st c. AD

     →
180. 180

     Prayer to Jupiter

     CATO · ORIGINES · 1 fr. 12

     The Latins vowed: Jupiter, if it is greatly pleasing to You, that we, rather than Mezentium, should give offerings to You, accordingly may You make us victorious.

     Roman · public

     Jupiter

     OathPetition
     2nd c. BC

     →
181. 181

     Prayer to Mother Earth and the Manes

     ANONYMOUS · CARMINA LATINA EPIGRAPHICA · II.1029.5-6

     Now, Manes, I call you to witness, on these bones I leave behind, may the earth put atop them lie gently.

     Roman · personal

     Mother Earth, the Manes

     Petition
     →
182. 182

     Prayer to the Manes

     ANONYMOUS · CARMINA LATINA EPIGRAPHICA · II.1147.3-4

     Now if virtue is rewarded among the Manes, within the changeable shadows, then I pray that the Mother may give honor and gratitude to you.

     Roman · personal

     the Manes

     Petition
     →
183. 183

     Prayer to Mother Earth

     ANONYMOUS · CIL · III.1760

     To You I pray, Mother Earth, may You settle lightly on her remains, she who knew the reward of piety and merits it.

     Roman · personal

     Mother Earth

     Petition
     →
184. 184

     Prayer to Mother Earth and the Manes

     ANONYMOUS · CIL · CIL III 3989

     Therefore I pray to you Gods of the Underworld, into whose arms I am compelled headlong by the Gods above, that you admit me into your realm with the least amount of torment.

     Roman · personal

     Mother Earth, the Manes

     Petition
     →
185. 185

     Prayer to Earth

     ANONYMOUS · CIL · VI.18149

     Goddess Tellus, I pray, may You eternally embrace the holy remains of those named on this tombstone.

     Roman · personal

     Earth

     Petition
     →
186. 186

     Prayer to Mother Earth

     ANONYMOUS · CIL · VIII.9473

     Fertile Terra, I pray, You may settle lightly on these remains, not harshly on the cremated remains of this infant.

     Roman · personal

     Mother Earth

     Petition
     →
187. 187

     Prayer to Mother Earth

     JUVENAL · SATIRES · 7.207-208

     Grant, O Gods, that the earth may lie soft and light upon the shades of our forefathers, may the sweet scented crocus and perpetual spring bloom over their ashes.

     Roman · personal

     Mother Earth

     Petition
     1st-2nd c. AD

     →
188. 188

     Prayer to Proserpina and Dis Pater

     PROPERTIUS · ELEGIAE · 2.28c.1-2

     O Proserpina, may Your clemency remain merciful on the souls You keep, and may You Dis Pater, Proserpina's consort, not desire to be stern.

     Roman · literary

     Proserpina, Dis Pater

     Petition
     Augustan

     →
189. 189

     Prayer to Jupiter

     TACITUS · ANNALES · 16.35

     We pour out a libation to Jupiter the Liberator. Observe, discover, and may the Gods avert the omen from you, my son, but you are born into a time when it is expedient to fortify your spirit with examples of courage and firmness of mind in the face of adversity.

     Roman · personal

     Jupiter

     DedicationPetition
     1st c. AD

     →
190. 190

     Prayer to Carmenta

     ANONYMOUS · RITUS CARMENTIS · incense offering

     Carmentis, I make this offering of incense to You and pray with good prayers that You will look kindly and favorably upon our children and upon us, on our homes and on our households.

     Roman · ritual

     Carmenta

     DedicationPetition
     modern reconstruction (Nova Roma)

     →
191. 191

     Prayer to Bacchus

     OVID · METAMORPHOSES · 11.131-132

     Forgive me, Father Bacchus, I was mistaken, but have pity, I pray, and command that I should be torn from your beauty!

     Roman · literary

     Bacchus

     Petition
     Augustan

     →
192. 192

     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

     →
193. 193

     Prayer to Ceres and Libera

     CAESIUS BASSIUS / PHILICUS · HYMN TO CERES AND LIBERA

     Fertile Goddesses, wives of Jove, may the mystic rite that You cherish not be defiled.

     Roman · ritual

     Ceres, Libera

     PetitionProtection
     →
194. 194

     Prayer to Ceres

     LIVIUS ANDRONICUS · EQUOS TROIANOS

     Grant me the strength, Goddess, to whom I ask, to whom I pray; extend your assistance to me.

     Roman · literary

     Ceres

     Petition
     3rd c. BC

     →
195. 195

     Prayer to Ceres and Proserpina

     LIVY · AB URBE CONDITA · 24.38.8

     Mother Ceres and Proserpina and all You Gods above and below who inhabit the city, these hallowed lakes and groves, I pray that You attend us with Your favor and support, if it should be that we are taking this initial step for the purpose of guarding against treacherous falsehood, not practicing it.

     Roman · public

     Ceres, Proserpina

     OathPetition
     3rd c. BC (recorded by Livy)

     →
196. 196

     Prayer to Ceres

     OVID · AMORES · 3.10.3-14; 43-48

     Flaxen-haired Ceres, Your fine tresses wreathed with ears of wheat, why must your sacred rites inhibit our pleasures? Goddess, people everywhere praise your munificence. No other goddess so lavishes men and women with everything good. In earlier times the uncouth peasant never roasted grains of wheat, never knew a threshing floor, but oak trees, those first oracles, provided them with gruel. Acorns, tender roots and herbs made their meal then. Ceres first taught seeds to ripen in the fields, taught how to follow Her with scythe against their golden hair, first broke the oxen to yoke and reveal the fertile earth beneath its curved blade.

     Roman · literary

     Ceres

     PraisePetition
     Augustan

     →
197. 197

     Prayer to Ceres

     TIBULLUS · ELEGIAE · 1.1.15-16

     Golden-haired Ceres, bless this our farm; a crown of wheat I shall hang before your altar.

     Roman · personal

     Ceres

     PetitionDedication
     1st c. BC

     →
198. 198

     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

     →
199. 199

     Prayer to Diana

     ANONYMOUS · CIL · CIL III 8298

     Virgin Goddess of Delia, known for Your favoring grace, what offerings You demand I happily give.

     Roman · personal

     Diana

     DedicationPetition
     →
200. 200

     Prayer to Diana

     OVID · FASTI · 2.449-452

     Thanks be to You, Lucina, who are named for this sacred grove, or else because it is You, Goddess, who brings life into the light of day. Kind Lucina, I pray that You spare pregnant girls from labor's hardship, and gently birth ripened infants from their wombs.

     Roman · personal

     Diana

     GratitudePetition
     Augustan

     →
201. 201

     Prayer to Diana

     OVID · FASTI · 3.255-256

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

     Roman · personal

     Diana

     PetitionInvocation
     Augustan

     →
202. 202

     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

     →
203. 203

     Prayer to Diana

     OVID · METAMORPHOSES · 6.327-328

     Favour me, Goddess, lead me, and lend me your support.

     Roman · literary

     Diana

     Petition
     Augustan

     →
204. 204

     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
     →
205. 205

     Prayer to Diana

     SILIUS ITALICUS · PUNICA · 13.136

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

     Roman · literary

     Diana

     InvocationPetition
     1st c. AD

     →
206. 206

     Prayer to Diana

     STATIUS · THEBAID · 4.752-770

     Potent Goddess of sacred groves — for by your noble appearance and modesty I think You are not born of mortals — look with favor upon a tired army on the march. We determined that Thebes deserves to be destroyed with the sword brought forward, but now severe drought makes us no longer war-like, it bends our hearts, and weakens us into idleness. Grant drink to those who are weary, whether you hold a babbling brook or stagnant pool. This will bring no shame or desecration to your place. Winds, you now are asked along with Jove for rain, may you refresh our virile and bellicose hearts and replenish our lifeless spirits. Only Jupiter may grant that we will return with plunder, but if so, O Goddess, war gained riches we will pile as offerings of thanks to you. For your sanctuary, Goddess, a great altar we will build, and wash it in the blood of numerous Boeotian cattle to repay your kindness.

     Roman · literary

     Diana

     PetitionDedicationOath
     1st c. AD

     →
207. 207

     Prayer to Diana

     STATIUS · THEBAID · 6.633-637

     Goddess, divine power of woodland groves, to You and to Your honour, these locks of my hair are owed, and by the vow made to You also comes this wrong. If my mother or I merited your good assistance in the hunt, I ask You not allow me to go to Thebes under foreboding signs, nor allow Arcadia to plunge into so much shame.

     Roman · literary

     Diana

     PetitionDedication
     1st c. AD

     →
208. 208

     Prayer to Diana

     STATIUS · THEBAID · 10.360-370

     By these wandering stars I swear, by the shade of my leader, who is to me a divine power, that like the depth of my grief so is my deep resolve. Cynthia, mistress of arcane mysteries of the night, if Your divine power is threefold and You descend into the forest each time with a different appearance, it was he who recently was Your companion, and whose honor was nurtured in Your sacred grove. At least consider now to lend me Your aid, for it is this boy, Diana, for whom I search.

     Roman · literary

     Diana

     OathPetition
     1st c. AD

     →
209. 209

     Prayer to Diana

     TERENTIUS · ANDRIA · 232

     I pray, You Gods, grant an easy delivery to this girl, and assign to someone else the ill fate that awaits the day when the midwife makes her mistakes.

     Roman · literary

     Diana

     PetitionProtection
     2nd c. BC

     →
210. 210

     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

     →
211. 211

     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

     →
212. 212

     Prayer to Minerva

     VIRGIL · AENEID · 11.483-485

     Diana, skillful in arms, leader in battle and guardian of soldiers, with Your hand, Tritonian Virgin, shatter the spear of this Phrygian pirate; throw him to the ground and stretch him out prostrate beneath our high gate.

     Roman · literary

     Minerva

     PetitionProtection
     Augustan

     →
213. 213

     Prayer to the Muse

     CLAUDIUS CLAUDIANUS · IN OLYBII ET PROBINI FRATRES CONSULES PANEGYRICUS · 71-72

     To you I pray, Apollo of Mount Parnassus, that you may inspire the pythia with so important knowledge, as to whom between us, O God, you will reward with authority.

     Roman · public

     the Muse

     Petition
     4th-5th c. AD

     →
214. 214

     Prayer to Apollo

     MARTIAL · EPIGRAMMATA · 9.42

     May Myrina's richness ever You hold, Apollo, thus always the swan song, too, may You enjoy, may the well versed sisters ever serve You, the Delphic Pythia ever reveal any of Your oracles, may the Palatia ever love and revere You. Were You ever to ask, and Caesar grant, that he should invest Stella with consular powers, then gladly would I by vow become indebted to You.

     Roman · literary

     Apollo

     PetitionPraise
     1st c. AD

     →
215. 215

     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

     →
216. 216

     Prayer to Sol

     PACUVIUS · MEDUS · fr. 2

     Sol, I call to You that You may guide me on my search for my parents.

     Roman · literary

     Sol

     Petition
     2nd c. BC

     →
217. 217

     Prayer to Apollo and Diana

     PETRONIUS ARBITER · CARMINA · 94 PLM

     God of Delphi, I have dedicated to You a temple made of fine Sicilian marble, spoken aloud Your praises while accompanied by the sweet sounds of the calamus reeds. If ever You hear our prayers, Apollo, and if indeed You are divine, tell me now, by what means does a man without money seek to find it?

     Roman · literary

     Apollo, Diana

     PetitionDedication
     1st c. AD

     →
218. 218

     Prayer to Apollo

     PLAUTUS · AULULARIA · 394-396

     Apollo, please, help me, and with your arrows slay these treasure-laden thieves. As you have done before, swiftly come to my aid and draw your bow.

     Roman · literary

     Apollo

     PetitionProtection
     2nd c. BC

     →
219. 219

     Prayer to Apollo

     PLAUTUS · MERCATOR · 678-680

     Apollo, I beseech you, graciously grant peace, prosperity, safety and sound health to our family, and spare my son by your gracious favour.

     Roman · literary

     Apollo

     PetitionProtection
     2nd c. BC

     →
220. 220

     Prayer to Apollo

     SENECA · HERCULES FURENS · 592

     Your pardon I do desire, Apollo, if you see in my actions what is forbidden; for it was by the will of another that I revealed hidden things of the earth.

     Roman · literary

     Apollo

     Petition
     1st c. AD

     →
221. 221

     Prayer to Apollo

     STATIUS · ACHILLEIS · 1.9-10

     Grant me, O Phoebus, new fonts of inspiration and weave fortune's garland as a crown upon my head.

     Roman · literary

     Apollo

     Petition
     1st c. AD

     →
222. 222

     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

     →
223. 223

     Prayer to Apollo

     STATIUS · THEBAID · 7.786-788

     Now my last words before I depart, if any gratitude I owe to your prophet, O Phoebus, I commend my home and family shrines to You, and leave to You the punishment of my faithless wife and my beautiful son's impassioned furor.

     Roman · literary

     Apollo

     PetitionDedication
     1st c. AD

     →
224. 224

     Prayer to Apollo

     STATIUS · THEBAID · 8.91-94

     O great Surveyor of all men, You who know the causes and principles of our actions, and who is a Father to me and Savior as well, I pray, lessen Your resolve against me and still Your angry heart, do not think me worthy of Your wrath one who is but a man and who fears Your laws.

     Roman · literary

     Apollo

     Petition
     1st c. AD

     →
225. 225

     Prayer to Apollo

     STATIUS · THEBAID · 10.337-345

     To You, Phoebus Apollo, go these spoils, prizes of the night, taken from distinguished nobles, not yet washed clean of their blood. I trust that truly I have offered You an acceptable sacrifice. I, Your faithful priest and defender of Your sacred tripod against uncivilized enemies, commit these to You. If I have not disgraced Your traditional rites and strictly kept Your rule, come often to me, think me worthy to often enter into my thoughts and seize my mind. Although now crude honors are offered You — these broken arms stained with blood of honorable men — if ever, Paean, You will grant the return of my native home and the temples I long for, God of Lycia, remember my vows, and however many rich gifts and as many bulls as I have promised, demand they be fulfilled.

     Roman · literary

     Apollo

     DedicationPetitionOath
     1st c. AD

     →
226. 226

     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

     →
227. 227

     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

     →
228. 228

     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

     →
229. 229

     Prayer to Apollo

     VALERIUS FLACCUS · ARGONAUTICA · 5.244-249

     Father Apollo, I pray to You, all-seeing guardian God, be gracious to me and protect me, watching over my kingdom. Be ever vigilant and warn me what strangers or what subjects of mine conspire against me. Whatever treacherous plots there may be, keep me alert and prepared.

     Roman · literary

     Apollo

     PetitionProtection
     1st c. AD

     →
230. 230

     Prayer to Apollo

     VIRGIL · AENEID · 11.785-793

     Apollo Soranus, Highest of the Gods, Holy Guardian of Mount Soracte, we who are foremost among Your worshippers, for You we set to flame the piled pine-wood, and Your worshippers, piously trusting our faith in You among the fires, press our step across the glowing embers. Grant, Father Almighty, that by our arms we may erase this disgrace. No plunder did I seek, no trophy to win from virgins, or any spoils; my fame shall follow from my feats.

     Roman · literary

     Apollo

     PetitionOathDedication
     Augustan

     →
231. 231

     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
     →
232. 232

     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

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233. 233

     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

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