The Orphic Hymns: A New Translation for the Occult Practitioner

The Orphic Hymns: A New Translation for the Occult Practitioner, Patrick Dunn, Llewellyn Publications. The hymns attributed to the mythical being Orpheus (and specifically, the mystery cults who honored his name) are some of the most beautiful examples of ancient Pagan devotional poetry in existence. Utilized by mystical seekers for millennia, these beautiful paeans are perfect for augmenting one’s personal spiritual work, while simultaneously connecting it to a rich lineage of ancient ritual songs and adorations.

Occultist, translator, and literature professor Patrick Dunn thus had his work cut out for him in adapting these venerable verses for the modern reader, but rest assured he does not disappoint. His handling of the Hymns is both fresh and reverential. They can even be quite playful at times without diminishing from the power and gravitas of the original Hellenic stanzas. Not fearing comparison, Dunn has even included Thomas Taylor’s 1792 translations of the texts for those wishing to see what he was working with from the English side of things.

The book has a beautiful side-by-side, Classical Greek vs. English format reminiscent of a Loeb Library codex or some of the more recent Joseph H. Peterson books. Thus, those with a better knowledge of ancient languages can compare and contrast participles and contextual hints, while making use of the original text for further inspiration. An extensive concordance and glossary is an added bonus the reader will quickly appreciate when some of the lesser-known Greek names appear mid-line. Ultimately, the coolest edition of the Hymns any occultist could possibly want.