Inspired by an acquaintance who would recite the Orphic hymns over a period of 30 days, I decided, after trying the practice, to adapt a 28 day cycle that I liked for the hymns. I invite you to join me in it, if you like.
Why am I doing this? Well, I have a long-term association with Orphism and the deities of the hymns. I’ve been initiated to an Orphic mystery cult and served as a priestess and initiator in it. While I no longer associate with that group, the ties to those gods and daimons are still strong.
Why would you join in? Performing a cycle of prayer like this requires some rigor and discipline, and it can help to develop those things as well as serve as a challenge to yourself. Honoring these many gods and spirits is a good thing to do; it can increase and improve your connection to them and help to improve your relationship with them. It helps you to become familiar with ancient prayers to these gods and the ways some ancient people thought about them. Doing this with other people is a good way to connect spiritually and socially as well. Also if you’re struggling with a daily practice it’s a great way to start, apparently it takes 30-40 days to start a new habit so by the time you’re finished you’ll be on the way.
What do you need for it? Not much. I recommend having a candle to serve as your hearth, and some incense. The hymns prescribe specific incense and if you can swing that that’s great, but some basic temple incense like frankincense or sandalwood should suffice if you can’t. If you can’t burn incense, you can provide water (mixed with honey if you want to be fancy) instead.
When does it start? I’m going to start this cycle on July 5th, the New Moon. It’s an astrologically pleasant New Moon and gives everyone time to prepare.
I’m likely going to make a small discord server for folks to talk and share ideas, experiences, thoughts and questions. I’ll share the actual cycle soon as well.
So the invitation is open and you’re welcome to join! I hope to see some of you in the group when it starts.
The Serpent and the Tree 