Hermes Invocation & Altar Guide
In the context of witchcraft and mythology, Hermes is not traditionally considered a deity associated directly with witchcraft. Instead, Hermes is a prominent figure in ancient Greek mythology and is primarily known as the messenger of the gods, the god of commerce, travelers, boundaries, and thieves, as well as the guide to the underworld. He is often depicted as a youthful and agile figure, wearing winged sandals and a winged cap, which symbolizes his swift and cunning nature. In witchcraft, practitioners generally draw inspiration from various pantheons and deities from different cultures, including Greek mythology. While Hermes may not be directly related to witchcraft, some practitioners might incorporate aspects of his energy or attributes into their practices. Hermes' key qualities that could inspire practitioners include: 1. Communication: Hermes is a messenger, known for his excellent communication skills. Witchcraft involves working with various energies and spirits, so invoking Hermes might be helpful for clear communication with the divine or otherworldly beings. 2. Speed and Agility: Hermes' swiftness is often associated with quick wit and adaptability. These traits could be utilized in spellwork or ritual when seeking effective and efficient outcomes. 3. Guide to the Underworld: As a guide to the realm of the dead, Hermes holds knowledge and power over transitions and transformations. In witchcraft, practitioners might call upon his guidance during times of personal growth or when facing significant life changes. 4. Patron of Travelers: Hermes' protection over travelers could be invoked for safe journeys, both in the physical and spiritual realms. Witchcraft often involves exploration and astral travel, making him a potential ally in such endeavors. Who is Hermes?
• A surface to place the altar on: This could be a table, a shelf, or even a piece of cloth on the floor. • A statue or image of Hermes: You can find these online or at a local metaphysical store. • A herma: A herma is a pillar or post topped with a bust of Hermes. You can make your own herma by carving a piece of wood or by buying a pre-made herma. • A caduceus: The caduceus is the staff of Hermes, and it is a symbol of communication, trade, and healing. You can find caduceus sculptures or images online or at a metaphysical store. • Offerings to Hermes: Hermes enjoys offerings of food, drink, and other items that are associated with travel, communication, and trade. Some traditional offerings include: o Beeswax candle: Beeswax is associated with Hermes because he is the god of bees. o Sweet foods: Hermes enjoys sweet foods, such as honey, cakes, and pastries. o Wine: Wine is associated with festivity and celebration, which are both qualities of Hermes. o Fruits: Fruits are associated with abundance and prosperity, which are both qualities that Hermes can bestow. o Coins: Coins are associated with trade and commerce, which are both areas that Hermes is associated with. • Altar Setup for God Hermes
Other items associated with Hermes. These could include: o A ram or goat: These animals are sacred to Hermes. o A tortoise: The tortoise is associated with Hermes because he is said to have created the lyre from the shell of a tortoise. o A winged helmet or petaso: These are headpieces that Hermes is often depicted wearing. o A satchel or pouch: Hermes is often depicted carrying a satchel or pouch, which is said to contain his magical tools. • Incense: You can burn incense to create a sacred atmosphere and to honor Hermes. Some traditional incenses for Hermes include: o Frankincense: Frankincense is associated with purification and spirituality. o Myrrh: Myrrh is associated with healing and protection. o Olibanum: Olibanum is associated with communication and inspiration. • Flowers: You can also place flowers on your altar to honor Hermes. Some traditional flowers for Hermes include: o Crocus: Crocus is associated with Hermes because he is said to have created the flower from the blood of his slain brother, Argus. o Strawberries: Strawberries are associated with Hermes because they are said to have grown from the ground where he spilled the nectar of the gods. o Thyme: Thyme is associated with healing and protection. Altar Setup for God Hermes
Oh, Hermes, swift and clever messenger of the gods, I call upon you with reverence and respect, Bearer of the winged sandals and cap, Guide and protector of travelers, thieves, and seekers. With your quicksilver wit and silver tongue, You traverse the realms with ease and grace, Bringing messages and knowledge from above and below, Intermediary between mortals and immortals. I seek your guidance and inspiration, oh Hermes, Grant me the wisdom to navigate life's twists and turns, To adapt and embrace change with agility and grace, And to communicate my intentions with clarity. Bless my journeys, be they physical or spiritual, Watch over me as I explore new horizons, Protect me in my endeavors, and lead me on the path To growth, transformation, and self-discovery. Hermes, I honor your presence in my life, And I humbly ask for your aid and blessings, As I walk the intricate web of existence, Guide me, oh Hermes, in this magical dance of life. As above, so below, as within, so without, May your wisdom and guidance be ever present, In this world and all worlds beyond. Hail Hermes! Prayer
Ingredients: • Setup the altar as mentioned in previous pages. • A piece of paper and a pen. • A quiet place where you will not be disturbed. Instructions: 1. Light the candle or incense and place it in front of you. 2. Take a few deep breaths and relax. 3. Write the following invocation on the piece of paper: Hermes, god of travel, communication, and trade, I invoke you now. Come to me, Hermes, And bring your gifts of speed, Wisdom, and protection. Help me to overcome obstacles, To communicate ef ectively, And to achieve my goals. Thank you, Hermes, For your presence and your help. 4. Read the invocation aloud three times. 5. Close your eyes and visualize Hermes appearing before you. 6. Ask Hermes for the help that you need. 7. When you are finished, thank Hermes and say goodbye. How to Invoke God Hermes?
1. Colors: Yellow, gold, orange, and white. 2. Gemstones: Citrine, yellow jasper, agate, and clear quartz. 3. Herbs: Lavender, marjoram, fennel, and dill. 4. Trees: Cypress and hazel. 5. Metals: Mercury (also known as quicksilver), associated with communication and alchemy. 6. Planetary Association: Mercury, named after the Roman equivalent of Hermes, is associated with communication and intellect. 7. Animals: Hawk, falcon, and any bird of prey. 8. Element: Air, representing swift movement and intellect. 9. Incense: Frankincense, myrrh, and sandalwood. 10. Day of the Week: Wednesday, named after the Old English god Woden, who is associated with Mercury. 11. Tarot Card: The Magician, representing skill, communication, and quick action. 12. Sacred Number: 4, symbolizing balance and harmony. 13. Offerings: Fresh fruit, honey, bread, or aromatic incense. 14. Personality Traits: Quick-witted, adaptable, communicative, curious, and cunning. Correspondence
Symbols and Associations • Caduceus: Staff with serpents & wings. • Winged Sandals: Swift movement. • Winged Cap: Divine intellect. • Tortoise: Patience & creativity. • Rooster: Heralding the new day. • Herma: Boundary marker. • Thieves & Outlaws: Protector. • Psychopomp: Guide to afterlife. • Communication: Scrolls & quills. • Lyre: Music & poetry. • Scepter: Authority & influence. • Rainbow: Bridge between realms. • Number Four: Balance & harmony. • Proteus & Trickery: Shape-shifting.