This is the incantation for protection and empowerment based on a specific
tradition in Celtic Lore. The Druids (esp. Celtic) did not allow their works to be
written down. As the Gaels slowly converted to Christianity, many Pagan
traditions of poetry, prayer and incantation were “converted” as well.
One form of invocation that seems certain to date from pre-Christian times is
the Breastplate. These were relatively long, detailed recitations in which
various powers – divine, spiritual and natural – were called upon to aid the
practitioner. We have a number of examples, of which the most famous is the
the Breastplate of St. Patrick. This paganised Druid’s Breastplate is based on
that famous prayer.
The Armoring
Today I gird myself with triple power
Invocation of the Gods
Attunement with the Spirits
Reverence to the Ancestors
Today I gird myself
With the power of the Magic Cauldron
With the power of the Spear and Sword
And the Stone of Sovereignty
With the whole company of the Mother’s Kin
Today I gird myself
With the power of the Noble Ones
Obedience of Spirits
Service of the Sidhe
With the Loving Blessing of the Dead
Wisdom of the Wise
Courage of the Strong
Innocence of the Young
And the Deeds of Heroes.
Today I gird myself
With the Power of Heaven
Light of the Sun
Brilliance of the Moon
Splendor of Fire
Speed of Lightning
Swiftness of Wind
Depths of the Sea
Firmness of Earth
Hardness of Rock
And the Power under the Earth.
Today I gird myself
With the Goddess’ Power to direct me
With the Gods’ Wisdom to bear me up
With the Childs’ Love to content me.
Their eyes to look after me
Their ears to hear from me
Their voice to clarify for me
Their hands to guard me
Their paths open before me
Their shield to ward me
From the snares of spirits
From weakness of will
From habit and unmindfulness
From all who wish me ill
Far and near
I summon these Powers to be upon me and in me
To make me equal to any challenge:
To come between me and any power that threatens my body or
spirit
That I may have the Wisdom of the Wise
The Love of the Loving
The Power of the Powerful
That I may be known in the inner realms and acknowledged with
honor.
Know me, O Mighty Ones, for my name is ____________.
Magic within me, magic on my right hand, magic behind me,
magic on my left hand, magic before me, magic above me,
magic beneath me.
In the eye of all beholders
In the ear of all who hear
In the heart of all beings
My Magic is established.
Today I gird myself with the threefold Power
Honor to the Gods
Honor to the Fair Folk
Honor to the Dead
And Honor to the Wisdom of Magicians
That dwells in me forever!
So mote it be!
The Crane Book of Wisdom 