Orphic Hymn 44

To Semele

THE FUMIGATION FROM STORAX. Cadmean Goddess, universal queen, Thee, Semele, call, of beauteous mien; Deep-bosom’d, lovely flowing locks are thine, Mother of Bacchus, joyful and divine, The mighty offspring, whom Jove’s thunder bright Forc’d immature, and fright’ned into light. Born from the deathless counsels, secret, high, Of Jove Saturnian, regent of the sky; Whom Proserpine permits to view the light, And visit mortals from the realms of night. Constant attending on the sacred rites, And feast triennial, which thy soul delights; When thy son’s wondrous birth mankind relate, And secrets pure and holy celebrate. Now I invoke thee, great Cadmean queen, To bless thy mystics, lenient and serene.