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Niketeria (honoring Nike)
The Niketeria was an ancient Greek festival that honored Nike, the goddess of victory. We hold a very simple ritual, which can easily be done at home.
Wash your hands as a means of purification.
Light a candle and some frankincense as offerings, and then recite the Orphic Hymn #33 to Nike:
I call upon mighty Nike, beloved of mortals,
for she alone frees men from the eagerness for contest
and from dissent when men face each other in battle.
In war you are the judge of deeds deserving prizes,
and sweet is the boast you grant after the onslaught.
Nike, mistress of all, on you and your good name depends noble glory,
glory that comes from strife and teems with festivities.
But, O blessed and beloved one, come with joy in your eyes,
come for works of renown, and bring me a noble end.