The Orphic Hymn to Hekate is among the oldest and most respected invocations dedicated to this influential goddess. In the hymn, Hekate is invoked as the goddess of the crossroads—a symbolic place where three paths meet. She is described as “lovely,” a word that conveys both her beauty and her enigmatic presence.
The hymn goes on to honor Hekate’s presence in the sky, on earth, and in the sea. Her saffron-colored robes are mentioned as a sign of her divinity and sacred connection. She is recognized as a funereal Daimôn, a spirit who moves among the souls of the dead, highlighting her role as a guide between different realms.
Hekate is also referred to as Persian and as one who prefers deserted places, emphasizing her ties to the wild, the mysterious, and the untamed. Her fondness for deer further links her to the natural world and the secrets of the night.
As the goddess of night and the protector of dogs, Hekate is seen as an invincible queen. Dogs are sacred to her, often depicted as her companions and guardians. She is sometimes shown being drawn by a yoke of bulls, symbolizing her strength and her role as the keyholder of the cosmos.
The hymn addresses Hekate as a leader, a nymph, and a nurturer of children, who roams the mountains and watches over those who seek her. The prayer requests her presence at sacred rituals and asks for her favor, with incense offered as a gesture of devotion.
The next section is a chant to Hekate, expressing gratitude and respect for her as the guardian of opportunities and the opener of doors. She is called the queen of magic and circumstance, the keyholder, and the beloved mother of witches. The chant asks Hekate to guide the devotee through fortunate paths and to close those that may bring harm.
Hekate is further invoked as the goddess who holds the keys to time, wisdom, and fate. She is believed to hear the whispers of prophecy and is associated with mysteries. The prayer asks her to guide the devotee, to share her knowledge, and to let her magic be present in their life.
A short prayer follows, referencing Hekate’s connection to Persephone, queen of the underworld. In this prayer, Hekate is acknowledged as a dweller in the deep abyss, a goddess with power over death and the underworld. She is credited with finding Persephone, the lost queen of Hades, and helping to save humanity from endless winter.
Hekate is described as both a companion and friend to Persephone. The prayer asks her to guide the devotee on their own journey, expressing a wish to overcome fear of darkness and to always find the light, symbolizing hope and guidance during challenging times.
Another prayer is dedicated to both Hades and Hekate, recognizing their partnership in the underworld. Hades is addressed as the king and ruler of the dead, dwelling in darkness. The prayer requests that Hades and Hekate work together, as Hekate’s power is seen as essential in the tasks of the underworld.
The script also includes a prayer to Lilith and Hekate, two significant female figures in mythology. Lilith is invoked as a seductress and temptress, one who appears in dreams and works alongside Hekate. The prayer seeks their assistance in overcoming obstacles, achieving goals, conquering fears, and receiving protection.
Hekate’s role as Soteira, or savior, is especially important. In this aspect, she is associated with salvation, helping people escape difficulties and granting a peaceful death. The term “Soteira” means “to save” or “to rescue,” and the following prayer is addressed to Hekate in this role.
The prayer to Hekate Soteira addresses her as the heavenly mother and asks her to listen to the plea of a mortal. It requests strength and courage to face fate, to use time on earth wisely, and to be guided safely to the end of life, so the soul may join its ancestors.
The final prayer in this collection is a comprehensive invocation to Hekate, listing her many titles and roles. She is called the great goddess, queen of witches, queen of the night, lady of mysteries, lady of the underworld, goddess of death, mother of souls, protectress of witches, mother of ghosts, guardian of diviners, protector of travelers, giver of dreams, all-knowing one, mistress of fate, and mighty ruler of all things.
The prayer asks Hekate to guide, protect, and watch over the devotee, to keep them safe from harm, and to be present always. It ends with a promise to honor her eternally, reflecting deep respect and devotion.
These prayers and invocations provide insight into the tradition of honoring Hekate—a goddess who stands at the crossroads of magic, mystery, and transformation. Many practitioners seek her guidance, protection, and wisdom as they progress on their spiritual journey.
