invocation
in-vuh-KAY-shun
/ˌɪn.vəˈkeɪ.ʃən/
The act of calling upon a deity, spirit, or higher power for assistance, inspiration, or protection.
Often occurs at the very beginning of a ceremony, prayer, or classical epic poem.
The story behind the word. From Latin invocare, combining in- ('upon') and vocare ('to call'). It is directly related to words like vocal, advocate, and evoke. Ancient poets believed creative genius was a literal deity who had to be called into the room before writing could begin.
Word relationships
- appeal: An appeal is an urgent request made to anyone; an invocation is specifically directed to a deity or supernatural entity.
- incantation: An incantation is spoken magic formulas; an invocation is a prayer asking a divine power to attend or help.
- dismissal: A formal sending away of participants or spirits at the end of a service.
Commonly confused with
- evocation: Evocation means calling up memories or feelings, whereas invocation means calling upon a divine power for help.
Word family
- invoke (verb): To call upon a deity or rule for assistance.
- invocatory (adjective): Serving to invoke or call upon.
Collocations
- invocation of spirits
- opening invocation
- deliver an invocation
- invocation to the gods
Example sentences
- "Homer opens his epic poem with an invocation to the Muse, asking for help to tell the story of Odysseus." Classical Literature
- "The ceremony opened with an invocation for peace and wisdom recited by the community elder." Ceremonial Practice
Memory hook
IN-VOCATION = Calling the VOICE IN to help you. Calling upon divine aid at the start.
When not to use
Do not confuse with a legal summons, though both involve calling upon an authority.
Fun facts
- Classical Greek epics like the Iliad always begin with an invocation to ensure poetic inspiration.
Related words
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