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The Odyssey

Homer · 8th–12th century BCE (composed earlier than c. 750 BCE; traditional authorship generally placed in the 8th century BCE) primary

passage 61 of 237 · BOOK I. > BOOK VI (7/7)

in brief
Ulysses prays in Minerva’s sacred grove for help finding friends and hospitality among the Phaeacians, while Minerva hides him and fears Neptune’s rage will block his return.

whip with judgement. As the sun was going down they came to the sacred grove of Minerva, and there Ulysses sat down and prayed to the mighty daughter of Jove.

“Hear me,” he cried, “daughter of Aegis-bearing Jove, unweariable, hear me now, for you gave no heed to my prayers when Neptune was wrecking me. Now, therefore, have pity upon me and grant that I may find friends and be hospitably received by the Phaeacians.”

Thus did he pray, and Minerva heard his prayer, but she would not show herself to him openly, for she was afraid of her uncle Neptune, who was still furious in his endeavors to prevent Ulysses from getting home.

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topics: fate, destiny, and necessity · prayer and worship

The Odyssey · Homer · 750–700 BCE