Prayer to Nethuns (Neptune)

 

Etruscan hymn to Nethuns

Hearken, O Nethuns, thou whose domain is the boundless water, whose voice resounds in the crashing wave and the murmuring spring. From thy deep halls beneath the restless surface, thou watchest over the currents that embrace the lands.

Thine is the vast, salt deep where sunlight falters, and the hidden paths known only to the creatures of thy realm. Thou art master of the flowing river that nourishes the fields, and the cool wellspring that offers life from the earth's secret heart.

In thy grasp thou holdest the three-pronged spear, symbol of thy power over the fluid world, wherewith thou mayest stir the waters to fury, summoning the tempest, or command them to a tranquil calm. The earth itself may tremble when thy might is roused.

Before thee, Great Nethuns, we stand within this sacred precinct, offering libations and heartfelt reverence. We beseech thee, guard our ships that venture forth upon thy unpredictable expanse; grant them safe passage and favourable winds. Let not the hidden shoal nor the sudden squall bring ruin upon them.

Ensure thou the steady flow of the inland waters, that our crops may thrive and our people drink deep without fear of drought. Protect our shores from the devouring tide, and our settlements from the deluge.

Thou art the mystery of the abyss, the life-giver of the gentle rain, the untamed force of the flood. Thy moods are manifold, thy depths profound.

O Nethuns, Lord of Fresh and Salt, Deep-Dweller, accept thou the honour we render unto thee this day. Be thou mighty, yet merciful unto thy people who call upon thy name with awe and hope. Look favourably upon this thy temple, and upon us, thy worshippers.