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Invocation

Apollo is called by the names of Apollo Lykeios (the wolf like), Apollo Daphnephoros (bay bearer), Pythian Apollo, Paean, Apelles, Apollonios, Apollodorus, Apollo Akersekomas (with unshorn hair), Apollo Phoibos (the fox like), Apollo Hekatos (Striking from afar), Apollo Epikourious (the helper), Apollo Iatros (doctor), Apollo Loxias (the oblique), Apollo Agyieus (of the street), Apollo Patroos, Phoebus Apollo (bright), Apollo Nomius (of the shepherds), Apollo Hylates (of the woodland), Apollo Apotropaeus (who averts evil), Apollo Nymphegates (who looks after nymphs), and Apollo Kathartes (purifier). Sometimes Apollo is worshipped instead of Helios or Asclepius.

Influence

Apollo has a wide range of influence including purifications, healing, plague, pestilence, morals, expiation, music, prophecy, archery, care of herds, light, physical fitness, poetry and wisdom. He is also the god of all of the higher, theoretical sciences such as mathematics, geometry, astronomy and philosophy. In the modern world, Apollo becomes the god of computers and scientific research.

In blessing, Apollo gives health and knowledge. As a curse, Apollo brings disease, infestations of vermin, ignorance and forgetfulness. Most important in obtaining Apollo's favor is the following of his moral imperatives: meden agan (nothing in excess) and gnothi savton (know yourself), The later refers to knowing your limits and knowing that you are not a god.

Priesthood

Priests of Apollo are usually young men that are physically fit and attractive and have just reached adulthood. Some priestesses of Apollo are also fit and attractive. Others are elderly and respected for their wisdom. The young men and women lead the worship by singing choral music (called paeans or healing hymns) so they should also have some singing ability.

While supporting an oracle, the priestess (pythia) wets her feet in the spring and breathes its' (sometimes hallucinogenic) vapors. She enters a prophetic trance and utters what sounds like random words and phrases. The attending priests translate this to answer the inquiry in an oblique way.

Offerings

Rites and prayers to Apollo should include physical exercise (gymnasia) and choral music. Offerings at the conical stone in front of the house (Apollo Patroos or Apollo Agyieus) are in the form of poetry, a burning lamp or libations of rainwater. Sacrifices include increased gymnasia and increased studies into the pure sciences (thus purifying the body and the mind). Apollo is called upon for purification and expiation (seldom for curses and retribution).

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