Hellenic Polytheism: Household Worship

by Christos Pandion Panopoulos, Panagiotis Meton Panagiotopoulos, Erymanthos Armyras

Within this publication, the reader is presented with explanations for the central concepts and basic guidelines to the ceremonies that form a part of Hellenic Household Worship as has been established and is currently practiced by the LABRYS Polytheistic Community in Hellas (Greece). It serves as a useful introductory manual for the newcomer to contemporary Hellenic Polytheism as they take the first steps on their journey to worship the Hellenic Gods in a traditional manner.

Genres: Paganism, Religion, Witchcraft, Nonfiction, Spirituality, Mythology, History

160 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2014

Reviews

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a clear and direct guide to getting ones hands in to Hellenic polytheism. It clearly explains household worship which is the core. It's excellent.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this book. It's an excellent introduction to Dodekatheism that explains the mindset and intentions that motivate and inspire household worship and ceremonies. My copy has bookmarks and neon-colored flags sticking out of it all over the place, and I may have to consider investing in another copy just in case I wear this one out.

Before I picked this up, I was on the fence about Hellenismos and whether or not it was truly for me. I had a nagging interest and preoccupation that wouldn't let me drop the subject, but I didn't really know for sure. After reading and giving myself time for introspection I realized that many of the central teachings were ones that I already held to be true, and its spiritual goals were essentially the same as mine.

This book will not tell you what to think and believe. It presents to you a set of principles, beliefs, and spiritual aspirations, then clearly lays out the many religious observances for you to perform and think about. With Hellenismos, the 'proof is in the pudding' so to speak, and requires a hands-on approach and effort. That effort has worked to my benefit. Hellenismos is not really so much what you do (though that's important) so much as it is how you live and see the world and everyone and everything in it. It's a way of life and being.

To those who are interested in learning more after reading this book, I recommend the wonderful blog "Baring the Aegis" which has been of tremendous help to me in getting myself properly oriented. "Temenos" and "Hellenion" are also informative sites that provide more information about the topics in the book.

May you be blessed.

[Ashlyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely helped me to do a how to guide of worshipping the Greek Gods traditionally and respectfully. I love how it was actually written by Greek practitioners in Greece. It opens the door to Hellenic worship that I recommend anyone to read if interested in learning or thinking about Hellenic worship. Short how to guide that is structured in such a simple way that helps how to do libations, postures of worship, purifications and who to invoke.

[Foxlynx · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very helpful for my journey.

[Cora Loftis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent introductory book of the modern practice of Hellenic Polytheism. While shorter than one would expect, its brevity allows the reader to get a good overview of practice, while not bogging them down with too much information. This is always one of the books recommended to beginners interested in Hellenismos.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great text if you are looking to hone in on Hellenic household worship. The authors recognize the need for modern adaptation while the focus remains on honoring our gods. This text isn't just for beginners, but anyone looking to move out of "public" worship into the sacred space of the hearth.

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reread. The translation is a bit quirky in parts, but definitely still readable. If you're looking for a basic overview of household worship in Hellenismos, you literally can't do better- there are no other books like this (at least, that I'm aware of).

[The Hellene · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book on contemporary Hellenic religion that is available in English. The focus rests on the practice of Hellenic religion, mostly from the perspective of the Ionian tribe. Written by Hellenes for Hellenists and those interested in the Hellenic way.

[Elyse Welles · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an absolute essential read for anyone interested in working with Hellenic practices.

Hellenic polytheism is a living, indigenous tradition in Greece, and this is the only English language book available from an inclusive polytheist community.

It has the weight of an ancient grimoire, and is a practical necessity for any practitioner of spiritual connection with the Hellenic pantheon. After my initial read through, in which I highlighted and took notes right in this textbook-like, highly-digestible volume, I know it’ll be a point of reference for years to come.

[Alexia ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book!! This book is amazing and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in Hellenic Polytheism. It is full of information on how to take the first steps into household worship, which is one of the most important ways to practice Hellenic Polytheism. Honestly, this book is fantastic and I only have praise for it! :)

[Angharad · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read, reread, and rereread this book constantly, especially the arrangements of the hymns. This is my rock. I can recite the arrangement of Apollo's hymn for purification word for word, and I do so with love, with tears in my eyes. I don't mark that I'm reading this book because if I did, you guys would get notifications for it several times a week.

[Nikos · Rating 4 out of 5]

helpful & cool but a bit too devoutish for my taste. also very heteronormative in the marriage ritual part & marriage is Not the most important moment in any life

[Shadow Wolf · Rating 3 out of 5]

A decent enough primer on the historical/traditional worship practices. The book states upfront that there is no dogma in Hellenic Polytheism and that the devotional practices may vary due to the practitioner's environment, needs and other considerations but the suggested rituals included in the book are rather elaborate, involved and it does not feel like they really take into account the limitations of modern living spaces and social environments. The book does fine in terms of communicating the intended spirit of the worship practices but I do wish a little more effort was made to tailor it to the modern living/social conditions and to those who live outside the territories directly associated with Greek gods. For example, one ceremony mentions that at a certain point, the protector deity of the region in which the ceremony is conducted should be substituted. Sure, this makes sense in Greece and some of the adjacent countries but how does this work for the United States of America, for example?

[Lynnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely essential read, this would be amazing for new converts (and is often recommended since its publication) but even as someone who has been a practicing Hellenistic polytheist for over a decade (wow!), I found it exceptionally informative.

Aside from being a book, this is also an experience. Especially in the U.S., a lot of polytheistic practice has been co-opted by pagans and witch-pagans who take up all the air in the room. Living life as an authentic polytheist on a life-long journey to becoming more devout and dedicated is incredibly lonely and isolating. Consuming a book written by people who share the same religious philosophies and practices, who are as committed to history, who conceptualize the world as you do, is basically the only touchstone a reconstruction-leaning polytheist has in this country and culture.

This book also contains some of the most beautiful original and adapted hymns I have ever heard, which I would be remiss not to mention.

[Justina Bradley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Basic but a starting point.

I think that this book was a good jumping off point but as far as answering questions, I find that I’ve left with more questions than answers.

Despite this, I think that this book is good for finding base rituals, prayers and hymn that can be altered to fit any situation.

I also was pleasantly surprised with the range of different holidays included.

All in all I enjoyed this read (finished very quickly) but definitely not as detailed as I was hoping.

[DEMBEARS · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is really good but it leaves some questions unanswered

I’d definitely recommend this to anyone looking into hellenic polytheism. I’d recommend getting a physical copy as there are certain rites you may want to go back to. I’d give it 5 stars. But I feel like it didn’t answer all of my questions. Maybe I’m nit picky

[Raiden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent resource for anyone looking to worship the gods and unsure of where to start. Prayers, hymns, guidelines on shrine construction, purification rites, liturgy, etc - this book has everything you need to get started.

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantastic introduction to the practice of in-home worship in the hellenic traditions. Many practical and usuable ritual ideas, and a focus on accessibility overall that makes the practices quite approachable.

[x · Rating 3 out of 5]

i admit i skimmed the last parts. an overview of historical beliefs of hellenic gods in the household, followed by instruction. wasn't for me but was for people into hellenism so my review shouldn't hold weight

[T. · Rating 3 out of 5]

three star because it explained concept in a way i couldn't find elsewhere. BUT too dogmatic and conservative in some parts. Read it with critical thinking and as a utility for personal practice, not word by word.

[hr arch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reread. The translation is a bit quirky in parts, but definitely still readable. If you're looking for a basic overview of household worship in Hellenismos, you literally can't do better- there are no other books like this (at least, that I'm aware of).

[Autumn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was pretty good, but a very quick overview.

[BaileyKatMarie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Great starter book for anyone just beginning on this path. Of course always do your own research but this gives you a little bit of every topic.

[Shay VanAusdal · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great introduction to Hellenic Polytheism. Taught me a lot about household worship! Highly recommend.

[Ashlee Summer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent understanding of Hellenistic ritual

[Valeria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Un libro claro y conciso, el más útil para aquellos que recién estén empezando.

[Sas UrbaneHexe · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book everyone who is worshipping the greek gods should have read.

[Ashton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love it

[Kat Lawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely love it, gave a great base to begin learning about household worship.

[Joey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very easy to understand.