Epithets of Hekate

*Work in progress

An epithet is a title of honor or function when used with gods and goddesses. It is a description of a characteristic or aspect that a god or goddess embodies, and it is used when honoring or praising them. Epithets are also used when a devotee is petitioning a deity for assistance, and appropriate epithets are  used that correlate to the purpose of the work that is being undertaken when that aspect of the deity is needed for a specific purpose.

Hekate has many epithets that are documented in ancient texts such as the Greek Magical Papyri (PGM for short), Greek mythology, ancient hymns, plays, curse tablets, and temple offerings.

In ancient times,- cult centers of worship would be identified using an epithet, depending on the location and purpose of worship.

Below is a list of known epithets of Hekate. Each epithet is linked to it’s own blog post with further descriptions and examples from historic texts and my own personal experiences.

Note: This section of the blog is a work in progress. It will be continually updated and expanded as time permits and as new information is learned.

  • Aidonaia – Of the underworld
  • Angelos – Messenger
  • Apotropaia – Averter of evil
  • Brimo – Angry, terrible one
  • Chthonia – Of the Earth; of the Underworld
  • Dadophoros – Torchbearer
  • Enodia – Of the ways or crossroads
  • Kleidoukhos – Keybearer
  • Kourotrophos – Child nurse / protectress of the young
  • Melinoe – Soothing one
  • Nyktipolos – Night wanderer
  • Perseis – Destroyer; child of Perses
  • Phosphoros – Light bringer
  • Propolos – Companion or guide
  • Propylaia – Guardian of the threshold
  • Skylakagetis – Leader of the dogs
  • Soteira – Savior / World Soul
  • Trimorphis – Triple formed
  • Trioditis – Of the crossroads

Sources: